Humboldt made the leap into the top ten this year, moving up from 22nd in last year’s ranking. The school also produced eight more volunteers this year.
A member of the 23-campus California State University system, Humboldt State is the only school in California ranked among the Peace Corps’ top 25 medium-sized schools. The rankings are based on student body populations: “medium” schools have 5,000-15,000 students.
According to Peace Corps Director Carrie Hessler-Radelet, international volunteer service provides an opportunity for new college graduates to gain work experience, learn a foreign language, and develop intercultural skills. “International service helps volunteers refine qualities that can be difficult to measure, but are critical to long-term success, all while impacting the lives of people around the world,” said Hessler-Radelet.
The Peace Corps reports that alumni from more than 3,000 colleges and universities nationwide have served in the agency since the its founding in 1961, including 814 alumni from Humboldt.
“We take enormous pride in recognizing Humboldt State University as one of the 23 universities from the West Coast producing dedicated individuals who personify the Peace Corps mission of promoting world peace and friendship. Congratulations to the school for jumping 15 spots in the rankings this year,” said Peace Corps West Coast Regional Manager Erin Carlson.
This year’s rankings follow reforms to Peace Corps’ application and selection process that resulted in a record number of applications in 2014. Applicants will now find a simplified and more personal application process.
Representatives from the West Coast Regional Peace Corps Office will host an information session for potential volunteers on Thursday, April 14, at 6 p.m. in Founders Hall Room 118. Registration is required. More information is available online.