Do I need a foreign language to study abroad?
It depends. You need French only if you plan to join the Peace Corps and work in West Africa. You need Spanish only if you plan to join the Peace Corps and work in Latin America. Anywhere else that a language other than English, French, or Spanish is needed, the Peace Corps will teach you the language.
Can the 50 hours of hands-on experience I complete as part of a course or part of my degree program count toward the 50 hours of required hands-on experience for the PC Prep certificate?
Yes, with one minor exception. Hands-on experience that is part of a course counts, but you may not use the same course in which you completed those hours to satisfy another PC Prep sector or skill requirement (no double counting). The hours could be internship hours, teaching practice by students interested in working in the teaching area, hands-on learning in a medical setting by nursing, or public health students who are interested in working for the PC in the health sector.
Can serving in or on a student organization satisfy my leadership requirement?
Yes. In addition, you may also demonstrate your leadership by organizing a campus event. You may also demonstrate leadership off-campus, for example serving on a committee or playing other roles in your local church, or playing a leadership role in other activities in your local community. The PC Prep committee must be able to verify, though.
If I apply for the PVAMU PC Prep Program, does that mean I have to apply for the Peace Corps program after graduation?
No, applying for the PVAMU PC Prep Program does not mean that you are required to apply for the Peace Corps program.
What can I do with my PC Prep Certificate?
With your nationally recognized certificate, you will have a better chance of being accepted into the Peace Corps when you apply. You will also have a strategic advantage of being accepted when seeking international employment with organizations other than the Peace Corps.
Do I have to be enrolled in the University to be eligible to apply for PVAMU PC Prep Program?
Yes, the PC Prep Program is only available to undergraduate students enrolled at Prairie View A&M University. Students can apply during their Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior year.
Is the PVAMU PC Prep Program open to international students?
Yes! The PVAMU PC Prep Program is open to all PVAMU Undergraduate students enrolled at the University, irrespective of citizenship.