Peace Corps at the University of Minnesota
At the University of Minnesota, we're proud of the role we've played in the Peace Corps. Since 1961, over 1,269 University of Minnesota graduates have continued this tradition by putting their education and experience to work as Peace Corps Volunteers.
Today, the University of Minnesota ranks in the top colleges and universities that produce the most Peace Corps Volunteers. Although the world has changed quite a bit since the Peace Corps was established, the need for Peace Corps Volunteers is more relevant than ever.
Description
Peace Corps Volunteers serve in more than 75 countries in Africa, Asia, South America, Europe, and the Middle East. By providing technical assistance to countries that request it, the Peace Corps shares America's most precious resources- its people and their skills.
Serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer is an experience like no other. Volunteers learn a new language, exchange ideas, and take part in their communities as partners and friends.
Requirements
To be eligible for service, you must be at least 18 years of age and a U.S. citizen. There may be a place for you if you have:
- A college degree or 3-5 years experience
- An expressed interest in a program area
- A commitment to public service
Benefits
In addition to helping others, Peace Corps service also comes with tangible benefits for volunteers such as:
- Career Builder: provides training in a foreign language, technical skills, and cross cultural understanding
- Student Loans: some are eligible for deferment and some partial cancellation
- Transition Funds: receive $7,425 after you complete 27 months of service
- Free Travel: expenses for travel to and from you country of service are paid for
- Living Allowance: a monthly stipend to over living and housing expenses
- Graduate School Opportunities: combining service with graduate school for credit and/or financial assistance
- Vacation: earn two vacation days per month of service or 48 days total
- Medical and Dental: recieve complete medical and dental care while serving
- Health Insurance: affordable health insurance after service
- Network: worldwide network of returned Peace Corps volunteers, for both social and career connections
- No Fee: unlike other international volunteer programs, there is no fee to participate in the Peace Corps
Main program areas include:
- Education and English Teaching
- Youth & Community Development
- Health & HIV/AIDS
- Business and Information & Communication Technology
- Environment
- Agriculture and Forestry
Volunteer placements are based on where participants' skills and experience are needed.
More information
Stop by the University of Minnesota Peace Corps Office or attend a Peace Corps event to find out how you can make a difference.
Apply or for more information visit the Peace Corps website.
