Peace Corps
Established in 1961 by President Robert F. Kennedy, the Peace Corps is a two-year direct service program which places its volunteers in different countries around the world to help address global needs.
Peace Corps members work in the following areas: education, youth outreach, and community development; business development; agriculture and environment; health and HIV/AIDS; and information technology. Within these areas, the specific duties and responsibilities of each member can vary widely. There is no one Peace Corps experience.
The Peace Corps requires a 28-month, full-time commitment and intensive language training. The ages of Peace Corps volunteers range from 18 to 65. Since its induction, there have been more than 187,000 Peace Corps volunteers in over 139 different host countries.
Volunteers have the opportunity to learn a new language, live in another culture, and develop career and leadership skills all while making a difference in the communities in which they work. The Peace Corps experience can enhance long-term career prospects whether you want to work for a corporation, a nonprofit organization, or a government agency.
Corp members are paid a living wage, qualify for student loan deferment, and receive health benefits and vacation time through the program. Returned Peace Corps volunteers are eligible to receive financial assistance to pursue graduate studies in a variety of subject areas through the Fellows/USA program.
To learn more about the Peace Corps, visit the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Peace Corps website or visit the official Peace Corps website.