The Peace Corp: What To Consider
What to Know and Consider Before Joining The Peace Corps
Though Peace Corp volunteers come from all ages and walks of life, historically most are twenty-somethings, fresh out of college, who are not yet ready to buckle down and start a career. The Peace Corps offers opportunities for the adventurous and philanthropic heart. From teaching AIDS awareness in Africa, to teaching English in Georgia (the country), volunteers are placed both geographically and assignment-wise in a extensive range of areas.
To recent college graduates burdened with horrendously large students loans whose grace period is about the end, The Peace Corps is alluring. It gives the opportunity to travel on Uncle Sam’s tab while deferring student loans during the minimum two year Peace Corp commitment. Those with federal Perkins loans can apply to have 25% of their balance canceled once they have fulfilled their service.
Many volunteers serve as educators and all are educated for three months prior to being sent out into the field. Much of the training involves 8-10 hour days of cultural and language immersion. The sessions are grueling and their secondary function is to weed out volunteers lacking the commitment and discipline to make it.
Many college students approaching their graduation consider a stint in the Peace Corps. Because the commitment involves two years of their lives, the decision making process is often arduous. Composed through the help of current and former Peace Corp volunteers, is a series of questions and answers to assist with the question to be or not to be a Peace Corp volunteer.
Do I Get to Choose What Country I am Assigned to?
No. But you can put a regional request in when completing your application. Still, there is no guarantee that this will affect what country you end up in. However, if you have a language skill applicable to a certain country, you will considerably increase the likelihood of being placed there.
What are the Living Accommodations Like?
They vary dramatically by region and country. Some volunteers in Eastern Europe end up staying in posh apartments, while volunteers in places like The Marshal Islands live in huts. Some stay in host families and some live in houses or apartments of their own. The way the organization is structured, if you are unsatisfied with your living arrangements, it is fairly easy to have them changed.
What Will The Peace Corps Provide Me With?
Everything you need. You will be given a place to live, access to good medical treatment, and enough money to live like the locals.
What if I Arrive in my Country and Realize that I Have Made a Huge Mistake?
The Peace Corps is not like the army, you can get out without being locked away. But it is important to know that all volunteers go through a few “what am I doing here!” stages. This is very common when adjusting to a new life abroad. You will be overwhelmed at times and you will be culture shocked. The important thing to keep in mind is that everyone goes through this and to stick it out. The upsides make the downsides worthwhile.
What if I Am not Willing to Commit to Two Years?
Then the Peace Corps is not for you. The two year commitment is not negotiable. However, there are many organizations similar to the Peace Corps out there for you that do not require two year commitments. There is actually an entire book on that topic by Joan Powell aptly titled, Alternatives to the Peace Corps: A Directory of Third World and U.S. Volunteer Opportunities.
How do I Apply?
Just go to The Peace Corps’ official website to apply. From there you will find all the information you need to apply. But be patient, it can take up to six months for you application to be approved.
References:
Banerjee, Dillon. So You Want to Join the Peace Corps: What to Know Before You Go. Ten Speed Press, 2000.
Village in Colombia where the Peace Corp serves
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Volunteers enjoying leisure time in Colombia
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