Peace Corps attractive option for U. graduates

In the wake of 9/11, the war in Iraq and the several acts of anti-Western terrorism which have plagued the world as of late, one might expect Americans to become disillusioned with foreign affairs and adopt a mindset of isolationism.

But contrary to expectations, Americans are showing a stronger willingness than ever to think and act globally -- as evidenced by increasing participation in the Peace Corps.

According to a recently published study of Corps members from American colleges and universities, participation in the Peace Corps is experiencing a rapid increase and has reached its highest level since 1974.

Of the 7,533 volunteers currently serving in the Corps, 31 are Penn graduates, ranking the school 13th on the Peace Corps' 2004 list of top producing colleges and universities.

Despite the drastic increases nationwide, Penn's numbers have remained relatively steady.

The University sends a significant number of graduates to the Peace Corps year in and year out to work in the diverse fields of education, health, AIDS awareness, the environment and agriculture, according to Patricia Rose, director of Career Services.

"We've always had a good number of students involved," Rose said. "I haven't seen a drastic increase in participation because the Peace Corps is always a popular option for Penn students."

According to Career Services counselors, this acute interest in the Peace Corps is a product of the student interest in international affairs fostered and developed by the Penn curriculum itself.

"Penn draws a very interesting student population and kids are often aware of, and engaged in, the world," Associate Director of Career Services Peggy Curchack said.

"In addition, we have a strong social science program, a lot of international students, a really strong study abroad program and a lot of service options on campus -- all of which combine to generate a lot of interest in the Peace Corps at Penn," she added.

To the surprise of many, recent events in both domestic and foreign spheres have not caused interest to lag. In fact, the current world climate has caused a slight increase in participant numbers.

"The growing incidents of terror bring international events to the forefront of American news, which prompts people to think internationally and want to get involved," Career Services Counselor Jill Shashaty said. "People are increasingly feeling that grassroots participation is a way to address the problems like terrorism and political and economic instability which are plaguing the world."

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