Seeking information from former Peace Corps Volunteers...?

Question

I've been greatly interested in joining the Peace Corps after obtaining a B.A. degree in Cultural Anthropology this coming December. I've checked out the website in depth and am pretty much set on applying. First I was hoping some former volunteers could honestly share their experiences with P.C. b/c so far I've only gained insight from those who now directly work for them. I was also wanting to check about a few things: Is health care provided (as in financially covered) by P.C. while you're serving? Upon returning, did anyone have any issues such as not being able to get security clearance for a federal job and whatnot? Finally, for those who had parents who didn't really want them to join, how did you deal with that? Thank you to anyone who can give info about this. I'm about 97% determined to volunteer, but would love to hear from volunteers and have those last couple of concerns I have cleared up. Thanks! : )

Answer 1

I was a PCV in 1971/72. My daughter is one now. I wrote 40 times more than I want to paste here about "What was it like?" on my web site,

http://www.tedpack.org/pchead.html

You get free medical and dental coverage with doctors and dentists as good as you'd fine in the USA. In extreme cases they will fly you to George Washington University Hospital, fix your problem and send you back to your post.

I never tried for a government job. My parents were apprehensive but supportive.

Answer 2

In answer to your very last question: while traveling myself, I frequently met PCs who were traveling outside of their immediate work area -- many PCs, on their days off, do try to see what they can in their host country or, if possible, neighboring countries.

Look for the nearest chapter of Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCV) in your area and see if any members would be willing to talk to you personally. Also, look online for blogs by PCs (there are many).