NAME: Violet Carlson
AGE: 22
HOMETOWN: Littlerock, Calif.
ALMA MATER: UC Riverside, Class of 2010 (History/English)
COUNTRY OF SERVICE: Ukraine
ASSIGNMENT: Secondary Education TEFL Teacher
DEPARTURE DATE: September 2011
WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BECOME A PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER? My mom dreamed about doing the Peace Corps when she was younger, but never had the chance. I was inspired by her, as well as my desire to give back to my country. I love travelling and am excited to better a community across the globe! I was also motivated by the personal challenge.
I have been teaching/tutoring a variety of classes since I was in high school and am excited to apply what I have learned in another country. Ultimately, when I return from Ukraine, I plan on attending graduate school to further my history degree. I eventually want to work in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
ABOUT THE PEACE CORPS:
In 2011, the Peace Corps celebrates 50 years of international service. More than 200,000 Americans have served as Peace Corps volunteers in 139 countries since President John F. Kennedy established the agency in 1961.
Through their service, volunteers increase awareness of America around the world and help our country gain an understanding of other cultures beyond our borders. Currently, 8,655 Peace Corps volunteers serve in 76 countries – the largest number of volunteers in 40 years.
Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment. Volunteers live and work with a community overseas to reach goals in education, health, business, agriculture, the environment, youth development and more.
Peace Corps volunteers spend their first three months of service in training, living with a host family and studying the local language and culture.
Volunteers receive many benefits, including transportation, a living stipend, medical care, graduate school opportunities, student loan deferment, $7,425 upon completion and much more. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens, at least 18-years old, and in good health. There is no upper age limit and no cost to participate. Apply online.
For more information and online applications, please visit www.peacecorps.gov.
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Media Contact: Kate Kuykendall of Peace Corps, 310.356.1106 or kkuykendall@peacecorps.gov
