What Does Americorps Look For?

[lgirl60]

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Hello Everyone!
So I graduate in December and I plan on taking a year and a half off and I've been spending a LOT of time thinking about the various things I'd like to do. I've been looking into Americorps and I've digested their website, looking at the jobs that are posted, and started working on an application. The program just seems like such an awesome and fun thing to do. <3 I'd like to apply to a position after I graduate, but I was just wondering, what do they look for in applicants? In terms of volunteer experience, I've volunteered at art fairs, a camp for children with epilepsy, and free clinics, one being a medical clinic and another being a Women, Infants, and Childre (WIC) clinic, and have loved doing each of these things and could spend a long time talking about what I've learned from these experiences. If anyone that's done Americorps or is a current member could chime in, I'd greatly appreciate it!

 

[Tatiana3325]

I've actually done several volunteer trips where my site leader worked for americorps. They are all different. I couldn't tell you any unique characteristics that stood out.

 

[cmwhite11]

Your volunteer experience sounds good. I had several AmeriCorps phone interviews, and they were generally brief and predictable. I was asked about my interest in AmeriCorps, my past experiences, my willingness to live on a small stipend, maybe some personality/scenario questions.

The best advice I can give for the interviews is to know why you are applying to that specific program. Look at job descriptions if they're available, check out their website, think about the location, etc.

It's tough to generalize, though. Every site is different. If you're not flexible and self-motivated, AmeriCorps may not be the program for you. You're not guaranteed a lot of structure, good communication, or even clear expectations of your role. (Just speaking from my experience this year.) You won't "change the world," but you can have an impact, and I think it can be a great way to gain some independence and work experience before med school.

Good luck! 🙂

 

[235788]

Hello Everyone!
So I graduate in December and I plan on taking a year and a half off and I've been spending a LOT of time thinking about the various things I'd like to do. I've been looking into Americorps and I've digested their website, looking at the jobs that are posted, and started working on an application. The program just seems like such an awesome and fun thing to do. <3 I'd like to apply to a position after I graduate, but I was just wondering, what do they look for in applicants? In terms of volunteer experience, I've volunteered at art fairs, a camp for children with epilepsy, and free clinics, one being a medical clinic and another being a Women, Infants, and Childre (WIC) clinic, and have loved doing each of these things and could spend a long time talking about what I've learned from these experiences. If anyone that's done Americorps or is a current member could chime in, I'd greatly appreciate it!

anyone with a pulse/gpa

 

[lgirl60]

Thanks for the responses! Anyone else?