Let’s explore the amazing journey of Arina Xiong, an Asian American volunteer serving as a Peace Corps volunteer, in our series called “Crossing Cultures: Asian & Pacific Islander Heritage volunteers in the Peace Corps.” We’re celebrating Asian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month by highlighting Arina’s story. She’s a Hmong American serving in Armenia. Come along as we discover what inspired Arina, the things she’s doing during her service, how she’s making a difference in her community, her own growth, and the advice she has for others who might want to follow in her footsteps.
Introduction:
Please introduce yourself?
Hello! My name is Arina Xiong and I am serving in Armenia. I am a Hmong American. Hmong is an ethnic group from Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and China. I am also a first-generation immigrant, my family came to the States way back in the 90’s from Thailand. I love painting and taking care of indoor plants.
Motivation and Inspiration:
What inspired you to become a Peace Corps volunteer?
My desire to travel and learn about the world inspired me to become a Peace Corps Volunteer. In the past, I have traveled to other countries through different programs. These experiences are quite different compared to Peace Corps because these programs are short-term. The 27-month commitment can be very daunting, however, this is another reason I wanted to join the Peace Corps. It is enough time to immerse yourself in the community and learn about yourself at the same time.
My father was a big influence in my decision to join the Peace Corps. Growing up I always listened to my dad talk about traveling the world. As a family, we would sometimes travel together to see places such as the redwood trees up in Eureka or Kings Canyon (California). When I was little he would also take my siblings and me biking by the river. These little trips fueled my desire to travel and experience the world.
Service Experience:
Can you describe your service and the type of projects you are working on?
I am currently working as a volunteer in a high school. This is a very different experience for me because most of my previous experiences have been with students in the elementary grade level. At first, I was a little nervous but these students are so sweet and nice.
Growing up in a traditional Hmong household, my parents had a strong focus on education but were not encouraging extracurricular activities. This was something they were not familiar with because they did not grow up with extracurricular activities in their education. This lack of encouragement to participate in activities in my childhood is one of the many factors that inspired the Creative Leaders summer program. I want to create opportunities for students to experience leadership roles and explore different methods of creativity.
Empowerment and Impact:
How do you believe your presence as an Asian volunteer positively has impacted the community?
As a Hmong American, I get a lot of questions and assumptions about my ethnic background. When people ask me about my cultural background, it is a learning experience for them because many of them have not heard of Hmong. They often find my cultural background interesting, especially my religion.
Personal Growth:
In what ways do you think your Peace Corps service is contributing to your personal and professional growth?
The Peace Corps is definitely contributing to my personal and professional growth. Sometimes life in the Peace Corps can be a little slow-paced. It is the perfect time to learn a new skill. I recently started learning how to paint with watercolor. This is a hobby that I’ve wanted to learn for a long time but was never able to get around to.
In regards to professional development, I am learning to write grants and implement projects. I am also part of the Service Improvement Committee.
Advice for Aspiring Asian Volunteers:
What advice would you give to other people with an Asian heritage considering joining the Peace Corps?
My advice is that if you are considering joining the Peace Corps, carefully think about all the different outcomes before applying. It is a big commitment but also rewarding at the same time. It all depends on what YOU want at the end of the day. What will bring you the most joy?
To help celebrate Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, read more amazing stories from just a few of the Asian American volunteers in our series “Crossing Cultures” You will hear from volunteers who are currently serving, but also some who served in the past. You can find more here!
Conclusion
Arina Xiong’s journey teaches us about helping others and learning from different cultures, which is what the Peace Corps is all about. As we finish reading her interview in “Crossing Cultures: Asian & Pacific Heritage Volunteers in the Peace Corps,” let’s not stop there. Check out the other interviews in the series to learn even more from volunteers like Arina. By doing this, we honor Asian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month and understand how people from different backgrounds make a big difference in the world.
