Peace Corps is an international humanitarian and development organization that operates under the US State Department. It was officially established March 1, 1961 by a presidential order issued by President John F. Kennedy and has served 139 countries during its history. You can read more about the Peace Corps here.
What do Peace Corps volunteers do?
PCVs work to fulfill the mission of Peace Corps. The mission of Peace Corps has been broken down into 3 distinct goals. They are:
1. Helping the people of interested countries in meeting their need for trained men and women.
2. helping promote a better understanding of Americans on the part of the peoples served.
3. Helping promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of the Americans.
In short, Peace Corps volunteer work in several different areas to help create sustainable improvements in a country by investing in human capital. Again, for more complete information, I suggest that you go follow the link here.
I want to send you a postcard! How can I reach you?
Aw, how nice of you! I receive mail when I head into San Jose about once every month or two.
You can reach me at the address below:
Cuerpo de Paz
Apartado Postal1266-1000
1000 San José, Costa Rica
If you opt for email that can go here: Peteman126@gmail.com
I'm a university/college student/graduate and thinking about joining Peace Corps after graduation what should I know?
Apply first, decide later. The Peace Corps has a ridiculously long application process. It is recommended to plan about a year out. You can quit at any time during the process and the initial application is free. So, if you want to do it, think you want to do it, or think you may want to do it - I say apply. You can get started here. DO IT!
Additionally, if you are interested in a Master's degree you will want to read this.
If you still have some time before you want to apply, put some effort into volunteering or getting involved in service project around your community or through your university. Not only is it a great thing to do, but nothing shows the higher ups that you're serious about volunteering than previous volunteer work.
I'm a high school student and thinking about joining Peace Corps after graduation, what should I know?
While it is not unheard of for people without an undergraduate degree to be accepted to Peace Corps, I would HIGHLY recommend that you focus on going to school first. It will be difficult to convince the folks that review applications that you have skills that can be passed on to host country nationals without at least 3-5 years of full time, specialized work experience (business, agriculture, construction, non-profits, youth development, etc.)
So, the good news is that if you've chosen to go to college or university you can go and study whatever you want. Study hard, study well, have fun and volunteer while you do it. Come the end of Jr. year, if you're still interested, think about applying then.
I am significantly older than you but still interested in Peace Corps, what should I know?
Apply today! Our group has a gentleman in his 50s and a young woman in her late 60s. Those who bring a lifetime of experience to the table are highly valued in Peace Corps. Don't hesitate, apply today, decide later. You can get started here. DO IT!
