Arts & Culture

UWF Office of International Affairs celebrates first Peace Corps program graduate

UWF has awarded its first Peace Corps certificate to Monica Woodruff, a junior majoring in environmental management. The Peace Corps program, established at UWF last spring, teaches students sector-specific skills, foreign language proficiency, intercultural competence and leadership.

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UWF has awarded its first Peace Corps certificate to Monica Woodruff, a junior majoring in environmental management. The Peace Corps program, established at UWF last spring, teaches students sector-specific skills, foreign language proficiency, intercultural competence and leadership.

“My favorite part of the program was the Cross-Cultural Competency modules because they really broadened my perspective on diversity and inclusion to think about things I had never thought about before,” Woodruff said. “I was only required to take two modules, but I chose to complete all of them and get my Cross-Cultural Competency certification.”

Housed in the Office of International Affairs, the Peace Corps program offers a variety of professional sectors to choose from including education, health or the environment. These skills give students a competitive edge when applying for Peace Corps service, and can be built upon and marketed throughout their careers. 

“I think the Peace Corps Prep program isn’t just a good program to be in if you’re interested in the Peace Corps, it provides a valuable experience to any college student looking to get the most out of college and develop on a personal level,” Woodruff said. 

The diversity-focused program enhances students’ undergraduate experience by preparing them for international development fieldwork and potential Peace Corps service, however, a Peace Corps Prep certificate does not guarantee acceptance into the Peace Corps. Woodruff has not applied to the Peace Corps yet, but she plans to after she graduates next spring. 

“It’s on my bucket list,” Woodruff said. “It’s just a matter of when.”

For more information about the Peace Corps Prep program at the University of West Florida, visit uwf.edu/peacecorps.