CHLI AmeriCorps Alums Advice

AmeriCorps VISTA service provides volunteers with opportunities to grow professionally, strengthen their skills, and explore meaningful pathways beyond their service year. 
 
Since 2017, the CHLI AmeriCorps VISTA Hub has supported more than 222 AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers as they have continued to make an impact through their careers, education, and service. Alums have pursued a variety of opportunities including public-health related continuing education (24%), continuing education in other fields (12%), public or government employment (15%), nonprofit employment (11%), private-sector employment (11%), continued service opportunities (5%), and employment with their host site (11%). These diverse journeys demonstrate the lasting impact of a VISTA service experience and the many ways volunteers can apply the knowledge, skills, and connections gained during their service. 
 
Here are more insights from AmeriCorps alums on navigating a service year and planning ahead for life after service.  

Advice from Alums 

What’s next after VISTA? Our alumni have been there and are sharing the lessons, tips, and encouragement they gained along the way. Check out their advice for making the most of your service experience and preparing for the future!

“Learn as much as you can: If an opportunity to gain a new skill comes up, take it! You never know when you might need it.” 

- Morgan Thompkins 
 
"It's okay if you feel like you don't know what you're doing. This is as much of a learning experience as it is a service experience. Shape your service year to fit your future goals." 
- Hannah Robertson 
  

“Communicate, communicate, communicate! Be open with your team and your supervisors. Ask for help and clarification when you need it!” 

- Kristina Toma