Senior year of college can be an extremely stressful time. As graduation approaches, seniors are expected to apply to graduate programs or land full-time jobs. There are, however, other avenues students should consider before rushing into fulfilling these traditional societal expectations.

One avenue too often not considered is the Peace Corps. Peace Corps is a division of the U.S. State Department that sends Americans overseas to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. Volunteers begin the two-year journey by living with a host family so that they are able to fully immerse themselves into the culture of the community in which they have been placed. Volunteers learn the countries’ language, religion, cultural beliefs
and customs.

Once the volunteer has adapted to their new environment, they are assigned to their own community in which they will begin their 27-month assignment. It’s an extraordinary experience that often times provides clarity to those undecided on an educational or career path, or post-undergraduate studies. It’s also an honor to serve in the Peace Corps and this too may offer opportunities of its own.

Receiving an education from a Jesuit university ensures that students lead meaningful lives in which they strive for a just world. An ideal way to start the new chapter of your life is to engage in a selfless two-year journey in the Peace Corps program. This journey allows volunteers to share their knowledge with others across the world. Volunteers may improve education, agricultural techniques, youth development, community economic development, or promote life skills. By sharing their knowledge and skills, volunteers are making a tremendous difference in others’ lives. Volunteers give as much as they receive, which makes it a mutually beneficial life experience.

Loyola’s Jesuit education lays the foundation for students to lead a meaningful life. Post-college, Peace Corps assists students in continuing this meaningful mission while selflessly serving our country.

The Peace Corps allows volunteers to help others in developing countries grow as global citizens. Volunteers are exposed to a variety of different scenarios with which they are expected to use their life experiences to help influence those of other communities in a sustainable way. The day-to-day experiences of Peace Corps present volunteers with a number of challenges. These challenges strengthen the volunteer’s leadership skills and technical skills while providing opportunities for the people served. Post-service, volunteers are able to apply these life experiences as well as the many skills gained toward their own
personal objective — whether it be continuing education or entering the workforce.

Peace Corps is an excellent avenue to pursue if you are unsure of your future, yet wish to continue your Jesuit experience by helping others at a grassroots level, while further developing your own personal skills. Peace Corps volunteers have the opportunity to make a positive impact on global communities by sharing knowledge, talent and ideas with those served. While 27 months may seem lengthy, it is not considering the impact the work you engage in may impact an
entire community.