Whatever your long-term plans, you might consider committing to 1–2 years of service following graduation. There are dozens of quality faith-based and non-sectarian service programs that can help set the stage for whatever comes next. Benefits of participating in such a program include:

• Occasions to reflect upon your values, learn about yourself, and discern the possibility of a life-long call to service or career in a particular field. Service programs often include faith formation, community living, and opportunities for reflection. Many alumni have mentioned that a year or two of service taught them how to motivate and take care of themselves, as well as how to form healthy work and community relationships.

• Opportunities to learn skills for a future career. Your work as a service volunteer can give you skills that are relevant while pursuing careers in fields such as ministry, non-profit work, education, and law. Some programs let you undertake particular forms of service or work with specific types of organizations based on your goals and interests.

• Financial and academic benefits such as modest student loan forgiveness and academic credit. Furthermore, some service programs provide scholarships for graduate school. 

Over the past several years, alumni of the Theology Department have participated in the following faith-affiliated service programs:

• Episcopal Service Corps
  Episcopal. Various domestic locations. 1 year. Program details and benefits vary by location.

• Jesuit Volunteer Corps
  Catholic. Various locations, domestic and international. 1–2 years. Faith formation, intentional community living, and full-time work in a ministry or social service setting. Housing, food, and a modest stipend are included.

There are many other faith-based service programs:

• Carlton College
  A listing of faith-based programs around the country from many faith traditions and Christian denominations.

• Catholic Volunteer Network.
  This database includes nearly two hundred programs with Catholic organizations around the country. Benefits and details vary by program, and you can search based on type of service, location, and other criteria. 

Non-sectarian, government-funded service programs also provide a chance to give back while gauging your interest in non-profit service:

• AmeriCorps
  This federal program partners with local programs around the country to provide opportunities for 1–2 years of service. Benefits vary by program, but all AmeriCorps members are eligible for student loan relief of $6,095 a year for up to two years.

• Peace Corps
  This federal program involves two years of service abroad with NGOs or community organizations. Benefits include health care, a modest stipend, and training in language and technical skills.

If would like to teach as a form of service, refer to these resources for programs related to education. Most teaching fellowship programs provide a modest stipend, teacher training, the opportunity to teach in a high-poverty school, and free Master of Education degrees or state teaching certification.