Nicolette Slagle, Peace Corps Master’s International Student, Political Science
Nicolette has been serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer with a local government office in Thailand since March 2011. She is helping several occupational groups become more sustainable and self-reliant: "Much of what I learned at the Stevenson Center regarding economic development has been useful in my Peace Corps experience when it comes to assisting the various occupational groups."
Nicolette has also been working with her government office on community development efforts including the municipal recycling program, planning and funding of local events, and an annual program to help needy families improve their housing.
Nicolette came to the Stevenson Center after serving as a Team Leader and Member with the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC). During her AmeriCorps service, Nicolette worked in Vintondale, Pennsylvania, on a project that included remediation of a former mine site and its redevelopment into a park.
In her Stevenson Center graduate assistantship, she developed a Sustainable Agriculture Program that paired novice farmers with mentors on working farms. Nicolette received her BA from Penn State.
Peace Corps Master’s International Program at Illinois State University
For those going into the Peace Corps
Peace Corps Master's International Program Information
Looking for a graduate program that will prepare you for effective Peace Corps service and help you launch your career in community/economic development? You’ve found it!
The Peace Corps Master’s International Program at Illinois State University combines graduate study with Peace Corps service. Students may pursue the following Master’s degrees with the following plans of study:
Students begin Peace Corps service after one calendar year of coursework. Master’s International students then earn up to 8 semester hours of professional practice credit for their Peace Corps service. Students entering the Peace Corps will complete approximately 12 weeks of pre-service training in country. Upon successful completion of training, students will become Peace Corps Volunteers and begin a two-year tour of service in their country of assignment. All aspects of Peace Corps placements are determined solely by Peace Corps.
To qualify, prospective students must meet admissions criteria as well as the requirements established by Peace Corps. Applicants should simultaneously apply to both the Master’s International Program and the Peace Corps. Although admission to the Master’s International Program does not guarantee acceptance into Peace Corps, Peace Corps recognizes that these students have unique skills to meet the needs expressed by host countries. Learn more about the Peace Corps Master's International Program.
