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How does the Peace Corps further a future teacher's career?

I'm a university student currently working towards obtaining a Major in History and social studies endorsement, as well as a Master's in Teaching. Ultimately I would like to teach high school students courses like political science, history, and the sort (Particularly AP courses). However, I also have plans to join the Peace Cops after I finish my Master's program. That way, I can not only become more informed about the world through travel, but also get experience beyond student-teaching and with different types of subjects and age ranges. I want to participate in the "Teaching English as a Second Language" program. Has anyone had experience in the Peace Crop who could give me an idea of what it's like, and whether it helped them in a future education-based career? I appreciate the time!
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Marie Charlotte’s Answer

Hi Christina,
I personally did Teach for America for two years after undergrad. An experience that I am incredibly thankful for and I'm sure you will be too by doing the Peace Corps. Having your masters in teaching and doing the corps you will have no trouble finding a job in Education.
TFA has been something that has set me apart and helped professionally.

Best,
Charlotte
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Katy’s Answer

Hi Christina,
Peace Corps has and Education sector where you can go to different countries that request that type of assistance. The typical peace corps term is 27 months (3 months intensive language /cultural training + 2 years in the city/village where you are assigned). Generally speaking, with a masters have a better chance of being assigned to an institution or with at-risk populations. I was not the education sector when I served in peace corps so I can't really speak directly to how service might affect a career in teaching.
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Andrew’s Answer

For context - I completed Peace Corps as an Education volunteer and then I applied for my Master's program afterward as I wasn't clear on my career path when I had complete college so I can't say how it can help advance a career in education because I understand that there are specific requirements in order to achieve your teaching credential.

When I applied - there are Master's program where you complete your master's program concurrently with the Peace Corps.

I can say that you'll definitely find the experiences you described during the course of your service, and personally I found that my experience greatly informed my world perspective. It's certainly a unique experience, and I really enjoyed my time as an educator. You'll have a lot of opportunities to improve your teaching and instructional skills in a different environment, but know that the cultural context will be different then what your experience will be teaching in the US.

I'd describe my service as an test of adaptability - how quickly and effectively can you learn about your environment, evaluate your community, and determine how you can best serve your community. I think this is a life skill that I've found applicable throughout my career so far. Expect it to be challenging and isolating. It'll be an exercise in community building. Hope this helps!

Andrew recommends the following next steps:

Reach out to your local Peace Corps recruiter and they'll be able to put you in touch with other Education volunteers in Education careers.
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