Jobs aren’t the only option for new college grads

The economy may not be officially depressed, but many college graduates seeking jobs are. A bachelor’s degree is still an asset in the marketplace. Though employment is hard to find there are other options for earning an income and gaining experience. These can help you land a job when the economy has revived and can also be rewarding. You can serve the community, make money and improve your resume – not to mention use that degree – by joining one of these programs.

Teach for America

Teach for America recruits college graduates of all majors to teach in underperforming schools nationwide. Elementary, junior and high schools all take teachers in a variety of positions. Teachers commit to a two-year placement, and undergo training the summer before their term.

Teachers are paid the same wages and benefits as other beginning teachers in their district-ranging from $27,000 in rural districts to $47,000 in urban areas. They are also eligible for no-interest loans and transitional grants, as well as an education award of $9,450 at the end of the term.

Peace Corps

Peace Corps volunteers live and work in developing countries doing jobs from teaching English to developing small businesses and promoting AIDS awareness. The program requires a 27-month commitment and doesn’t guarantee placement in a specific country or program.

Along with benefits like learning a new language and understanding a new culture, the Peace Corps offers a living allowance for volunteers. They also pay $6,000 for transitional costs at the end of a term, can defer student loans and cancel a percentage of Perkins loans.

AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps partners volunteers with nonprofit groups through three main programs: State and National, Vista and National Civilian Community Corps. Positions may include cleaning streams, teaching computer skills and building affordable housing. Part and full-time positions are available, with flexible scheduling and varying lengths of commitment.

The main benefit of AmeriCorps is the satisfaction of doing community service, but it also offers a modest living allowances and an educational award of $4,725 for a year of full time work.

For more information check out:

Teachforamerica.org

Peacecorps.com

AmeriCorps.gov

AMANDA STEWART
Arbiter Journalist

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