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Training

Training is the first step in the Peace Corps process. New volunteers are introduced to the language and history of their host country. Training is an intensive multi-day experience. Early volunteers attended training in the United States and overseas. Since the 2000s, the bulk of training is done in the host country.Â

The Peace Corps organizes intensive language training along with project specific training on topics such as teaching English as second language or community development. Volunteers go through the training in groups and develop friendships that endure long after their Peace Corps service ends.Â

A volunteer training schedule.

Coursework

The training schedule for Peace Corps volunteers was intense. This schedule from the 1962 has classes and study time running from 8am to 9pm Monday through Saturday.

Front of Anne Brigg's postcard to her parents written during her training in Hilo, Hawaii.

Back of same.

Location

Anne Briggs sent this postcard depicting her training siteÂ to her parents andÂ describes her initial impressions.

Official photograph of Peace Corps Volunteer group taken during training.Â

Country Groups

Training sessions offered new skills, but also provided time to create friendships with other volunteers.

Certificate awarded when training was completed.

Invitation to a swearing-in ceremony.

Swearing In

Once training was completed, volunteers were officially sworn into the Peace Corps.