Peace Corps

The Power of Human Connection

The Peace Corps is a service opportunity for motivated changemakers to immerse themselves in a community abroad, working side by side with local leaders to tackle the most pressing challenges of our generation. It was established in March 1961 by an executive order (10924) of President John F. Kennedy and authorized by Congress the following September by the Peace Corps Act.

The Peace Corps's mission is to assist developing countries by providing skilled workers in fields such as education, health, entrepreneurship, women's empowerment, and community development. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens or on a pathway to citizenship and at least 18 years of age. Volunteers typically have a college degree (making this a perfect gap year opportunity) and are assigned to specific projects in certain countries based on their qualifications and experience. Following three months of technical training, Peace Corps members are expected to serve at least two years in their host country, after which they may request an extension of service if desired. Volunteers are strongly encouraged to respect local customs, learn the prevailing language, and live in comparable conditions.

Visit www.peacecorps.gov for more information about how you can launch an international career with the Peace Corps.

Meet Our Peace Corps Recruiter

Betsy Pickhardt is a dedicated humanitarian and former Peace Corps volunteer who served in Mongolia from 2018 to 2020. Born and raised in Missoula, Betsy earned her BA in Communication Studies with a Minor in Climate Change Studies. Betsy's passion for cultural exchange and community development led her to join the Peace Corps after completing her degree in 2017. Assigned to a rural village in Mongolia's Khovd province, Betsy immersed herself in the local culture, learning the intricacies of the Mongolian language and forging deep connections with her host community.

During her service, Betsy worked tirelessly to promote education and empower local youth. She collaborated with teachers to develop interactive English language programs, organized extracurricular activities to foster creativity and critical thinking skills, and facilitated workshops on health education and life skills. 

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Inspired by her time abroad, Betsy now works at UM at the Peace Corps Campus Recruiter to continue the legacy of the Peace Corps here in her home state. She aims to advocate for international cooperation inspiring others to participate in sustainable development. 

Think you might be interested in making positive change with the Peace Corps?

Schedule an appointment with Betsy today, by calling (406) 243-2839, emailing peacecorps@umontana.edu, or stop by her office in Aber Hall Room 203 during her office hours (Tuesdays, 12-1pm and Thursdays, 1-2pm) to learn more and get started!

 

Upcoming Events

Launch your international career with peace corps. Enjoy a one-on-one chat with our peace Corps recruiter to gain insight into what beijng a peace Corps Volunteer entails and learn more about the benefits you will receive during and after your service.

Details:

When: Tuesday February 27, 2024 | 10am - 11:30am

Where: University Center, First Floor

For more information contact our Peace Corps Recruiter, Betsy Pickhardt, at peacecorps@umontana.edu.

As a volunteer, you immerse yourself in a new experience - building relationships, exchanging culture and knowledge, and helping transforming lives for generations.

Does this sound like something you want to be a part of? Join us at our Peace Corps Week Information session to learn about volunteer experiences, ask questions about service, and gain tips to guide you through the application process.

Details:

When: Wednesday, February 28, 2024 | 3pm - 4:30pm

Where: University Center, Rm 327

For more information contact our Peace Corps Recruiter, Betsy Pickhardt, at peacecorps@umontana.edu.

Video: Peace Corps Prep

The University of Montana, in partnership with the United States Peace Corps, has developed the Peace Corps Prep Program to give students an advantage in the competitive application process for Peace Corps service as well as with other international organizations. Students attending the University of Montana can earn a Peace Corps Prep certificate in the following special assignment areas: Environment, Health, Youth in Development, Community Development, Agriculture, and Education. Preparatory coursework aids in increasing volunteer effectiveness and better equips students for international service.

Want to learn more about Peace Corps Prep?

Or visit our International Development Studies Page.