Burke recruits students at information sessions in Alden Library and through class talks, career fairs, advertisements and professors advising students. Many of those who serve in the Peace Corps return to the United States with a new perspective, according to Associate Provost for International Programs Josep Rota. It sends graduates to a developing country where they learn new skills and knowledge and have an experience that can transform their life. Many returning Peace Corps volunteers also are inspired to go on to graduate school when they return to the United States. These students tend to be some of the most successful graduate students.
Volunteers sign on for two-year stints, working in underdeveloped countries worldwide.
Some 7,300 volunteers are currently serving in 76 countries. Overall, more than 162,000 volunteers have served in the Peace Corps since President John F. Kennedy created the Peace Corps in 1961. Ninety-seven percent of those who serve have completed undergraduate degrees and 13 percent have completed graduate degrees.