If studying for a medical degree, at which point is the best to join the Peace Corps?

Question

Still studying in the four-year undergrad program for Pre-Med. I've always wanted to go into the Peace Corps, though, and I speak a few different languages, including Spanish.

I don't want to mess up my schooling or my chances of obtaining employment at any point, but I still want to be strong and healthy enough to be useful to the Corps, which is why I would like to do it very soon (I'll be 29 and I'm currently developing arthritis & other joint problems from an accident I had as a teen).

I was wondering if it's feasible to join the Peace Corps before I complete my medical degree or should I just wait (seems the most logical?). Has anyone made this decision or known someone who has?

Thanks ;>

BTW: I was also in the Marine Corps, so I know I can "suck it up" if there's pain and do the physical work ;>

Answer 1

Some of my fellow volunteers were planning to go to medical school. The typical method is to apply for Peace Corps as you are completing your undergraduate studies. Apply to a medical school as usual, be accepted, and then defer enrollment. Talk to a medical school about it; they are accustomed to it.

There is one requirement that they have; they require that you complete the entire two years to still be accepted to the medical school. If you have been in the Marine Corps that should not be a problem.

The only thing that may be difficult is passing the medical exam. I know that I had a very thorough physical before being accepted, and almost was not because of a minor (but permanent) knee injury. While the jobs in Peace Corps (especially as teacher) do not require that much physical strength, they do require that you be able to endure extreme temperatures and rough conditions. You likely would be able to, but their acceptance will be affected by it.

However, it does not cost you to apply and go through the process -- they pay for the dental and physical examinations -- so it is always worth a try. Especially if you are fluent in Spanish, you will be very much needed!

Your loans -- if you have any from undergraduate -- will also be deferred until you finish your term of service.

Let me know if you have any other questions, concerning joining or your assignments, etc.

Good luck!

Answer 2

To be blunt, realistically, you aren't going to want to join the Peace Corps after finishing med school/residency - you'll be pushing 40 and just starting your career. Finish your undergrad work and apply to medical school. If you get in, you can defer your acceptance for a year, and join the Peace Corps then. Most schools will understand and grant a deferment; if they don't, were I you, I would secure my future and finish medical school, but it's a judgement call for you as to which is more important.

Answer 3

I am dealing with similar issues. I am on my way to being a Forensic Pathologist and I would like to join the Peace Corps. I just worry that my med degree is not as useful to the Peace Corps as another med degree might be.

Whatever you do, good luck.

Answer 4

You'd be a wonderful health advisor or clincian. Write to the Peace Corps directly and ask them.

I'd guess after your bachelor's and before mediacl school. After medical school you are going to have a six-figure loan to pay off, probably. For that reason the Peace Corps doesn't get many doctors or dentists.

Answer 5

You are best to wait until you get your PhD. or you will never get to finish your degree and it will always haunt you.

But you don't have to worry because I have it from a really reliable source that there will still be poor people in the third world countries when you finish.

Answer 6

after you obtain your medical degree. the peace corp needs medical personnel.