Astara Maiure Joins Peace Corps to Serve in Madagascar

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Maiure

PHILADELPHIA, PA (08/02/2013)(readMedia)-- Astara Maiure '13 of Watchung, N.J., has been accepted into the Peace Corps and assigned to a two-year placement in Madagascar. Maiure will serve as a rural agriculture advisor there, where she will promote sustainable practices and enhance the community's ability to generate sustainable harvests.

"Volunteering through the Peace Corps is just something I've always wanted to do," says Maiure. "I want to spend as much time as possible learning and experiencing a different lifestyle. I'm excited to immerse myself in a new environment and learn the culture."

Maiure says her time at Saint Joseph's has prepared her for international service.

Maiure graduated from Saint Joseph's University with a Bachelor of Science degree in leadership, ethics and organizational sustainability. She volunteered her time and talents with the University through the Special Olympics. In her junior year, Maiure studied abroad in Italy. An athlete, Maiure participated in club rugby during her time at Saint Joseph's and served as co-captain her senior year. She attended Mount Saint Mary Academy High School in Watchung, N.J.

During the first three months of her service in Madagascar, Maiure will complete technical, language, health and safety training while living with a host family to become fully immersed in the country's language and culture. The training and cultural exchange are designed to prepare Maiure for her two years of service, while also allowing community members to gain a better understanding of Americans.

After Maiure is sworn into service, she will work closely to increase the effectiveness of small-scale farmers, cooperatives, agribusinesses and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

In 2011, the Peace Corps received 150,000 applications for 4,000 full-time placements. Today, 8,073 volunteers are working with local communities in 76 host countries in agriculture, community economic development, education, environment, health and youth in development. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment and the agency's mission is to promote world peace and friendship and a better understanding between Americans and people of other countries. Visit www.peacecorps.gov for more information.