Employment Spot

Peace Corps - Work in developing nations

You’ve earned a 4-year degree, have grand plans to build a career and are ready to face the world. For many, the next step is simple: begin the job search or grad school. Looking for another option? If you’re interested in seeing a new part of the world and are ready to make a two-year commitment, consider the Peace Corps.
For about 40 years, U.S. citizens have worked in more than 130 countries as Peace Corps volunteers. Established in 1961 during the first year of President John F. Kennedy’s administration, the Peace Corps mission is to help interested countries reach their development goals. Volunteers have many options, such as teaching English at a rural "bush" school in Kenya or using a business degree to volunteer in Jordan as a small business advisor.

Is it right for me?

The organization began under the leadership of a national hero. Its campaign slogan, "the toughest job you’ll ever love," has found a place in America’s collective memory. It’s easy to have romantic notions about a hut near the beach on the other side of the globe, but you should ask some tough questions before starting the application process.

The official site of the U.S. Peace Corps offers a wealth of information. The Frequently Asked Questions page provides brief answers to common questions like "What do I do with my student loans while serving in the Peace Corps?" Read about Volunteer Job Assignments and learn about the six general development areas in which volunteers work.

Networking with current or former volunteers is a great way to seek answers. Peace Corps Online offers news from various countries and contacts with former volunteers. Read about past volunteers’ experiences at Peace Corps Writers

SoYouWanna.com offers an article on the Peace Corps that addresses the primary questions you should consider before making a decision. As they suggest, if you have no tolerance for uncertainty, the Peace Corps is probably not a good fit. If you’re ready for the ups, downs and unknowns that a Peace Corps experience will inevitably hold, they offer great tips on how to apply, what to pack and how to survive the adventure.

Long-term career benefits

The Peace Corps offers many career-related benefits. Returned volunteers qualify for non-competitive eligibility when applying for federal jobs. The Peace Corps Fellows programs offer scholarships for post-graduate study. The Masters International Program lets volunteers earn graduate school credit with selected U.S. colleges while completing the two-year assignment, in areas ranging from public health to urban planning.

Applying for the corps

Ready to apply? An application packet can be requested through the Peace Corps site. Be prepared to encounter a fair amount of government bureaucracy. In fact, you may feel a little frustrated with your Peace Corps experience before you leave American soil. Nonetheless, if you’ve decided that the uncertainty is an exciting challenge rather than a daunting mess, you’ll be on your way to a grand journey.

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