Interview with Adrianne Johnson, December 7, 2022

Interview Summary

Adrianne Johnson Ukraine 2005-2007 - Adrianne Johnson joined the Peace Corps to build upon her experiences as an exchange student in Russia while in college. Although initially she’d wished for posting in a city, she enjoyed living in the small town of Grybinki, Ukraine, Kyiv Oblast. Johnson’s primary work was as an English teacher in a gymnasium, teaching students in 5th-11th grades. Johnson integrated American culture into English club using the Muppets’ songs and movies, and skits written and performed by members. As a secondary project, she assisted a local non-profit organization educating people about high-risk behaviors and HIV/AIDS. During the summers, she helped with youth leadership camps. Adrianne most enjoyed helping to organizing a fashion show with a local NGO. Two Ukrainian pop singers performed at the show and local youth designed and modeled the clothes. As a result of her service, Johnson learned to manage her own mental health, to harness her motivation to work on social issues. Her service was a “pivotal” formative experience in her life.

Interview Keyword

Ukraine Exchange student Russia Grybinski, Ukraine Kyiv Oblast Gymnasium American culture Muppets HIV/AIDS Youth leadership Fashion Show Pivotal

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