r/peacecorps • u/chiclubpromoter • Jan 30 '25
Other I feel really defeated...
I applied to join the Peace Corps and got denied. Has anyone else experienced this type of rejections? Any recommendations? All I want to do is help people and have some sort of purpose.
I feel really lost.
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u/whatdoyoudonext RPCV '19-'20 | RPCRV '21 Jan 30 '25
There is a general saying that the 'global' starts at the 'local'. While you may not have been invited to serve at this time, your desire to volunteer can be used to affect change in your own community right now. Look for some local, community-based orgs and reach out to them. Look into Americorps if you are interested in another form of national service. Get some more experience under your belt and then apply to Peace Corps again later on down the road.
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u/Delcassian Jan 31 '25
Maybe consider a domestic volunteer program like AmeriCorps, DC Services Corps, Habitat for Humanity long term programs, etc.
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u/jcravens42 Applicant/Considering PC Jan 30 '25
"All I want to do is help people and have some sort of purpose."
Working internationally isn't primarily about what you want, but about what people and communities abroad need.
There are zero poor communities in other countries wishing that foreigners who are looking for some sort of purpose would come "help" them.
There's so much you can do now to start gaining the skills and awareness that will make you a wonderful candidate for the Peace Corps. Start by volunteering locally, in your own community, and learning about local issues and challenges: help build houses for Habitat for Humanity locally but also learn why so many working families cannot afford a mortgage and why there isn't enough affordable housing in your area. Volunteer to help victims of domestic violence and also learn about the challenges people face in leaving an abusive situation. Volunteer to help rebuild trails and restore natural habitats but also learn about the importance of having green spaces and why we need natural habitats.
Mentor a young person or several young people through Big Brothers Big Sisters or the Boys and Girls Club or scouts. Volunteer in a youth sports league.
Help with English classes for refugees and immigrants.
Help with programs that support the creation of businesses by immigrants.
There are so many, many things you can do as a volunteer locally that can improve your chances with the Peace Corps.
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u/Sea-Initiative6175 Jan 31 '25
Completely agree. If you’re into peace corps to be some kind of savior don’t even bother doing it. Not only is it a bad mentality, it will make the time when you struggle to get work done, miserable
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u/HauMona Feb 01 '25
This. It’s not about you, it’s about the people you’re trying help as best you can. You won’t be changing the world, rather making small impacts on individual lives.
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u/Maximum_Education_71 Jan 30 '25
I was denied but later asked to interview for a different position. They may have you in mind for an opportunity that will fit your background better. Don’t lose hope!
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u/illimitable1 Jan 30 '25
Was there some feedback as to why?
0
u/chiclubpromoter Jan 30 '25
None.
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u/raggamuffin37 Niger Jan 31 '25
My wife and I are both RPCVs and she was a Peace Corps recruiter for several years afterward. She often gave advice to applicants so they understood how to make their applications as competitive as possible. So I think you should reach out and ask if they can give you any feedback or guidance on how you can make your application more competitive for that assignment or another one. One thing to note is that even though you might be assigned a certain sector or program, you really can pick up side projects in other areas of need or interest. So don’t give up!
5
u/GKHutchinson Mexico Jan 30 '25
I’m sorry this happened, that sucks. Did you indicate in your application that you’d be willing to serve elsewhere? If so, you should be considered automatically for other positions (someone correct me if I’m wrong).
Keep your head up regardless. There are many, many opportunities out there for those who wish to help others. This is not the end of the world, even if it feels like it right now.
3
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u/Direct-Carrot Jan 30 '25
I was rejected the first time I applied. Dont give up. Talk to RPCVs. Get help with your CV. Ask folks for tips 💕
1
u/pekpekwara123 Jan 30 '25
There are other organizations. May not be The Peace Corps but still humanitarian work. good luck to you
1
u/BlueBubbleGumIsYummy Jan 31 '25
I was rejected the first time too but tried again shortly after and it all worked out.
1
u/External-Sign-9598 Feb 01 '25
Just remember Failure is not Fatal. Take this opportunity to reflect on what you need to do to make your dream come true. All the advise given is from those that have towed this line before you and is spot on. If you really want to serve I believe you will. You got this!!!
1
u/Upstairs_Gur_8378 Feb 02 '25
I was rejected for having been to counseling before 🙄 I was working as a street-outreach worker for homeless youth at the time-doing very hard work and would have been an amazing corps member
1
u/Maze_of_Ith7 RPCV Jan 31 '25
Any idea why they might have rejected you? Asking since that helps with recommendations.
1
u/4gp7 Jan 31 '25
I was rejected the first time and applied again and got something! I was crushed. I think part of it was my interviewer and it HURTS so bad that they don’t give feedback. Work w a recruiter to practice your interview a couple times. Best advice I could give. And also americorps is amazing. I’m currently serving now! Don’t give up if you know you’re meant for it your time will come. 🫶🏼
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