Service programs gain allure for students

Erica Perez:

Eric Sandow is poised to graduate with a geography degree in May, but career plans A and B - graduate school or a land-planning job - aren't panning out.

So the 28-year-old University of Wisconsin-Parkside student is seriously considering a pursuit he's had in the back of his mind for years: the Peace Corps.

The troubled economy and President Barack Obama's call to service are helping create a surge of interest in the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps and other service opportunities. Meanwhile, the U.S. House last week approved the largest expansion of government-sponsored service programs in years.

Both Peace Corps and AmeriCorps provide modest compensation, student loan deferment and a small scholarship at the end that members can use to pay off debt or pursue more schooling.

"With the job market being the way it is, and my situation, I could definitely do that for two years, then see what the economy's like and in the process maybe help some people out," said Sandow, who has contacted a Peace Corps recruiter and is mulling over an application.

Posted by Jim Zellmer at March 24, 2009 1:01 AM
Subscribe to this site via RSS/Atom: Newsletter signup | Send us your ideas