Coe senior to join the Peace Corps
Kohawk Sangai Dukuly ’25 is packing her bags as she prepares to join the Peace Corps in Sri Lanka in September, where she will be stationed for 27 months teaching English.
Ever since returning from her study abroad experience in Thailand this past fall, she’s wanted to join the Peace Corps. In fact, Dukuly says she “applied immediately after [her] initial interest.” While in Thailand, Dukuly traveled roads up and down the country, meeting as many different kinds of people as she could, and she hopes to continue having similar adventures in Sri Lanka.
The Peace Corps sends American volunteers to partnering countries with the mission of promoting peace and helping other countries meet their needs. Volunteers have a variety of options in which to serve – agriculture, education and health are just a few.
“I am looking forward to teaching and sharing life experiences with my community in Sri Lanka. I am also looking forward to living in a new place and expanding my worldview while impacting the community I reside in,” Dukuly said.
Gaining acceptance into the Peace Corps is no easy feat. With an acceptance rate of around 23%, applicants must show relevant experience and knowledge, as well as a history and dedication to volunteer work. Past Kohawk selectees include Tristan Hines ’18, Nandi Bukusi ’18 and Molly Adams ’12 who have served in countries from Colombia to Madagascar. Associate Professor of World Languages and Director of Off-Campus Study John Chaimov said, “It’s a fantastic honor for Coe and a great thing for Sangai that she has been selected.”
Dukuly credits the experiences, opportunities and connections she has gained at Coe over the last four years for why her application stood out. Studying abroad, tutoring and accumulating volunteer hours at the Catherine McCauley Center in Cedar Rapids are just a few ways being a Coe student made her application pop.
In addition to her time abroad and dedication to volunteering, Dukuly is also a stellar track and field athlete, traveling with the Coe team to compete. She is studying pre-medicine and computer science.
As Dukuly prepares for her time abroad, she is educating herself on Sri Lanka and Sri Lankan culture while planning to enjoy a summer at home in Minnesota before her departure on September 10.