Peace Corps

[AJH2008]

It was suggested i also post this here. I'll be starting college in the fall and am considering that after graduation, i might go into the Peace Corps.

My dilemmas:
-My mom isn't keen to the idea! I don't know how to help her understand that's it not like I'm enlisting into the military.
-I don't want to lose time i have with my family (My mom has MS, and two years is a lot of time!)

Have any of you been in the Peace Corps? Anyones s/d considering?

[katliamom]

First, are you just starting your freshman year in the fall? If so, you will change your time half a dozen times what you'll do after graduation. No need to fret now what you may or may not do in four years time.

I work with many post-Peace Corps types, as well as have had professional dealings with PC. I can tell you that, while it's true that the Peace Corps is not like "enlisting in the military," it IS a big committment that often requires hardship as well as psychological and physical stamnia. You should definitely give the idea a lot of thought before you proceed, and that includes taking into consideration you mom's health. Today's Peace Corps tends to prefer older, more mature participants who have very specific skills -- engineering, farming, business, teaching, medical etc -- to share. If you think you have what it takes -- go for it. Peace Corps can be the adventure of your life time. But you need to be sure ahead of time that it's the right adventure for you.

[Karen Colleges]

I have some friends who are doing summer internships in foreign countries for 'Save the Children' and other NGO's. Less of a time commitment, and it would help you decide if that is something you really want to do.

[hazelb]

First of all, you've got three more years to figure this out.
Joining the Peace Corps is an admirable goal but give yourself a chance to experience college first and see where that leads you.

There are a number of Peace Corps-like programs right here in the United States. Some, like Teach for America, have a two year commitment and provide funds for graduate school if you fulfill the two years. Others, like some of the VISTA programs, are only for one year and offer less money for grad school.

These programs take place in major urban centers and in rural parts of the US. They can be every bit as rewarding as the Peace Corps and yet you'll still be on the same continent as your family.

Many programs (Teach for America and VISTA among them) are under the auspices of Americorps. Spend some time on the AmeriCorps website and you'll see a variety of options.