Peace Corps Prep
In 2019, UAlbany is honored to become the first SUNY college or university and 1 of only 4 universities in New York State to be selected by the Peace Corps to offer its volunteer preparatory program called Peace Corps Prep. 22 undergraduate students earned the Certificate in 2019-2020, UAlbany's first year, placing it in the top performing 5% of all Peace Corps Prep universities in the U.S..
Peace Corps Prep Certificate
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What is Peace Corps Prep?
Peace Corps Prep is a preparatory Certificate granted by the Peace Corps to undergraduate students from select universities who complete a recommended sequence of skill, language, intercultural, and professional development.
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Why Peace Corps Prep?
Prepare to be the best Peace Corps volunteer you can be while at UAlbany!
The Peace Corps recognizes that undergraduate students who earn the Certificate possess just the right combination of knowledge, skills, and attitudes to “make the most of their world.”
UAlbany’s Certificate will increase applicants’ chances of being selected as volunteers. -
How do I Earn Peace Corps Prep?
Certificate Requirements
The Peace Corps is looking for volunteers with a passion for service and core competencies as demonstrated through:
Training and Experience
Coursework (3 courses) and volunteering (50 hours) in 1 of 6 work sectors- Agriculture, Community Economic Development, Education, Environment, Health, and Youth in Development
Optional Language Study
Required only for Latin America (Spanish) and West Africa (French)
Intercultural Humility, Curiosity, and Agility
3 core courses or similar experiences, study abroad counts!
Professional Development Activities
Leadership experience and application preparation/support (resume critique and practice interview) -
What Support Does UAlbany Offer?
Skills, Coaching, and Community
Skills:
UAlbany courses and volunteer opportunities have been identified for the 6 work sectors, and language training (optional for certificate)
Coaching:
UAlbany’s Returned Peace Corps Volunteers and Faculty Council guide students in course and volunteering options, as well as Peace Corps resume and interview preparation. (Click here for more information on our Sector Coaches and how to contact them).
Every Peace Corps Prep participant will have a mentor and receive timely application support.
If hoping to serve in the Peace Corps within a year from now, connect with a recruiter ASAP!
Community:
Each year, the Peace Corps Prep Faculty Council and local RPCV host networking and intercultural/professional development events for Peace Corps Prep candidates.
Everyone is welcome! -
How Do I Get Started?
UAlbany undergraduate students wanting to qualify for the Peace Corps Prep Certificate during that fall semester must have applied by and completed all requirements by October 10th.
To qualify for the spring semester, the last qualifying date is March 10th.
The Peace Corps issues Certificates to current undergraduate students who are nominated in mid-October and mid-March by their university’s Peace Corps Prep Coordinators.
Click Sign Up below to get more information and to start your application.
Click here for more information on how to contact our Sector Coaches with any questions. Also make sure to check out our Events and Guides pages.
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