Are you feeling lost or uncertain about what your post-graduation plans look like? Are you looking for consistent work before attending graduate school? Consider AmeriCorps!
AmeriCorps is a federally-funded program with an ultimate mission to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement through service and volunteering. AmeriCorps offers several ways to become a member, offering different opportunities with different time commitments and requirements to serve in whatever capacity works for your goals and lifestyle. Members can find service opportunities in cities and states all across the country. Although they hire all throughout the year, AmeriCorps is currently in their heavy recruitment season, with application deadlines coming up in March/April.
A few examples of service opportunities include:
-Supporting communities affected by a natural disaster
-Mentoring and tutoring in primary schools to lower the national drop-out rate
-Partnering with a nonprofit organization to help accomplish their goals of combating poverty and hunger
-Traveling to different regions to complete environmental projects
and many, many more.
AmeriCorps programs range from lasting for a summer to an entire year. Benefits include:
-Being paid a living allowance / stipend (often eligible for government assistance)
-Receiving an Educational Award upon completion, which can be put towards loans, graduate school, or any other educational endeavor. One can earn up to 2 educational awards with multiple service terms.
-Forebearance for most federally-guaranteed student loans during service
-Professional development, networking opportunities, and career planning
-Access to the AmeriCorps alumni network & being eligible for graduate + undergraduate school scholarships with partnering institutions
And much more. Click here to learn more about AmeriCorps and how it can be an incredibly viable gap year option for those pursuing careers in social justice.
Gap Year Options: AmeriCorps Service
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