CLARKSTON, WA – Natalie Elskamp of Clarkston will soon embark on a two-year journey of international service as she joins the Peace Corps as an English co-teacher in Colombia.

Elskamp, a graduate of Pacific Lutheran University with degrees in biology and philosophy, is scheduled to depart on August 24. She will begin with three months of in-country training before starting her role in a Colombian public school.

“While there is always work to be done at home, I felt there would be value in experiencing a new culture for a few years and expanding my worldview,” Elskamp said. “I mainly hope to achieve a sense of independence and mental resolve. Also, as someone with broad interests and no set graduate or career path yet, I hope that my time in Colombia will help to define my interests more clearly.”

As a co-teacher, Elskamp will assist both educators and students in improving English communication skills to help open doors to academic and professional opportunities.

She is one of 115 Washington residents currently serving in the Peace Corps. Since the organization’s founding in 1961, more than 10,000 people from Washington have volunteered globally.

Peace Corps service includes housing, a living stipend, language and technical training, and access to post-service educational benefits such as graduate school fellowships.

More information about serving in the Peace Corps is available at peacecorps.gov.