One of my long-term goals is to join the Peace Corps after I complete my college education. Are there any colleges that are known for having a large number of students who end up in Peace Corps? I want to be in a community that values serving others like I do.
Yes, there are quite a few colleges across the U.S. where many graduates go on to serve in the Peace Corps. Universities that have consistently placed high in recent Peace Corps rankings for large schools (15,000+ undergrad enrollment) include the University of Washington, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the University of Florida. For medium-sized schools (5,000-15,000 undergrad enrollment), George Washington University, American University, and William & Mary usually rate highly. Small schools (under 5,000 undergrad enrollment) with a robust Peace Corps culture typically include schools like St. Olaf College, Middlebury College, and Gonzaga University.
It's worth noting that these rankings can fluctuate a bit year-to-year, and many other schools also produce numerous Peace Corps volunteers. However, these are solid options to start with if you're looking for colleges that emphasize service and global citizenship.
Many of these schools offer programs, resources, and opportunities for students who are interested in service, both domestically and internationally. This could range from academic concentrations relating to international development, clubs focused on service and social justice, or pre-Peace Corps preparatory programs.
Do keep in mind that while these colleges may be well-represented in the Peace Corps, choosing a college should also be based on factors most important to you - like the academic program, financial aid offerings, campus culture, and more.
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