AmeriCorps Vista Experience

AmeriCorps is a program similar to the Peace Corps, but domestically based. You typically make a one-year commitment to volunteer full-time (although there are part-time options) in community service within the United States.

Members of Volunteers in Service to America devote their time specifically to alleviating poverty in the US. I became a Vista volunteer after I graduated college and was not totally sure what career I wanted to pursue.

There are some drawbacks to being a Vista. First of all, the pay, or "living stipend" is not much money. Pay is based on the city you serve in. I served in Southern California and received a little less than $1000 per month, before taxes in 2006-7. After spending 4 years in college without much spending money, this salary was not too difficult too adapt to, though.

In addition to your living stipend, you will receive an educational award of $4,725 at the completion of your year of service, and you can defer government loans during the year. If you have no use for the educational award, you can opt to receive an additional $100 per month during your service year. If you are thinking about continuing your education, many schools will match the education award, offering you nearly $5000 toward tuition. You also receive health insurance as an AmeriCorps Vista. The insurance fully covered my prescription costs, which was helpful.

I spent my year at a non-profit organization, and dedicated my time to increasing financial knowledge of low-income communities. Officially, I organized financial trainings and spread the word about free tax preparation services. But in addition to these primary duties, I was able to gain experience in the plethora of tasks a non-profit undertakes. I wrote and received grants. I created a webpage and sent out monthly newsletters. I created and gave trainings to community organizations. Having little valid work experience before graduating college, my year as a VISTA allowed me to gain skills in a variety of areas that have been assets to more recent jobs.

The AmeriCorps program also offers trainings to volunteers. I attended conferences in Chicago and San Francisco during my year, and travel was paid for by the organization. I learned about things like grant-writing and public relations from experts in these fields.

Since completing my year of service, I have been conducting social research with a large University. I was able to use my education award to pay off loans and take an online course. I have decided to pursue a graduate education in public policy, and my Vista experience definitely illustrates my "commitment to public service," a huge benefit on my applications.

AmeriCorps is obviously not for people whose main concern is a large paycheck. If you have the desire to give back to your community, want to gain more work experience, or explore your career options, the Vista program may be something you want to look into. It was one of the most difficult, but rewarding experiences of my life. You can visit www.AmeriCorps.gov for more information.