April Conway
Regional Recruiter
Dallas, Texas
Milestones
My road in life has taken me all over.
Had a passion for wildlife so I went on a study abroad to Kenya, where I met a Peace Corps volunteer.
I graduated with a biology degree and did 2 internships - in a zoo and wildlife rehab center.
I applied to Peace Corps and got sent to Niger, W. Africa to work in environmental education.
In Niger, became more interested in human / wildlife interactions, so decided to go to grad school.
Got the opportunity to study pygmy hippos in Sierra Leone, spent 2 years there.
Wrote a 209 page dissertation, defended, consequently got sick of academia.
Applied to ~80 jobs, then got an interview with Peace Corps.
Got the Peace Corps Dallas recruiter job, so travelled to Dallas.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Bachelor
University of Georgia
University of Georgia
Career
Regional Recruiter
I am a regional recruiter for Peace Corps.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Travel
Environment & Nature
Helping People
Day to Day
Sometimes I go out to Universities and speak in classes and at career fairs about my experience in West Africa. Other times I am assessing applicants, interviewing them, and then nominating them for a program that fits their needs and the needs of the countries we serve. Much of my time is spent answering applicant questions about life as a volunteer.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for college students
If you want to be a Peace Corps Volunteer, you should start to apply during your senior year. Most Peace Corps Recruiters have been Volunteers so it's a good place to start. Peace Corps pays a decent wage, has wonderful benefits, and a great positive work environment. Seniors should find a local recruiter to discuss their options and be ready for an adventure!
Recommended Education
My career is not related to what I studied. I'd recommend this path instead:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Peers:
"People said I should stay in academia because I have a PhD - become a scientist, professor, and use my PhD."
Challenges I Overcame
First-Generation College Student
