Graduating This May? Here’s Why AmeriCorps Could Be Your Next Best Step

Graduation season is here, and whether you're wrapping up high school or finishing your college degree, you're likely thinking: What's next? For many students, the path forward isn’t always clear. If you're looking for an opportunity to grow your skills, gain real-world experience, and make a meaningful impact, AmeriCorps might be the perfect next step.

What is AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps is a national service program that places individuals in service roles across the country. Members tackle pressing community challenges like education, environmental stewardship, public health, and disaster response all while building professional experience that stands out to future employers.

Why Choose AmeriCorps After Graduation?

  • Build Your Resume with Hands-On Experience
    AmeriCorps service gives you the chance to lead, collaborate, problem-solve, and make measurable change in a community. These are skills employers value, and AmeriCorps alums often go on to careers in public service, non-profits, education, healthcare, and more.
  • Earn Money for Education
    After successfully completing a term of service, members can receive the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award. It can be used to help pay for college, graduate school, or to repay qualifying student loans.
  • Explore Career Paths
    Not sure what field you want to pursue? AmeriCorps offers roles in a variety of sectors, giving you the chance to “try on” different paths, build your network, and gain clarity on your future goals.
  • Serve Your Community, or Explore a New One
    Some AmeriCorps programs allow you to stay local, while others offer the chance to serve in different parts of the country. Either way, you’ll be part of something bigger, strengthening communities and contributing to positive change.
  • Join a National Network
    When you serve with AmeriCorps, you become part of a network of hundreds of thousands of alums who share your commitment to service and social impact.

Two Ways to Serve with the One Utah Service Fellowship

If you live in Utah, the One Utah Service Fellowship (OUSF) offers two unique tracks for service, both designed to build your skills, support your education, and help you make a difference in your community.

Take a Gap Year

Just graduated high school or college and not sure what’s next? Use this time to serve, grow personally and professionally, and gain hands-on experience with a local organization. You’ll develop programming, recruit volunteers, and support community initiatives all while earning a living allowance and education award.

Serve While Studying

Already enrolled in college? You can serve as a fellow while continuing your education. Choose a service focus that aligns with your studies like education, healthcare, or student leadership and gain real-world experience that complements your academic goals.

OUSF service terms range from 300 to 1,700 hours, with flexible durations and increasing stipends and education awards based on your commitment level.

Get Started

Whether you're a high school graduate ready to take a gap year or a college grad looking to launch your career, AmeriCorps has a place for you. Learn more about your options here!