Frequently Asked Questions

Get your AmeriCorps questions answered.

Wondering how AmeriCorps can benefit you? Or maybe you're curious about the specifics of our positions. Find all the answers you need in our FAQs below.

If you still have questions, call us at (413) 748-3403 or (413) 748-3610. You can also email us at americorps@springfield.edu.

What is AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps is a network of local, state, and national service programs. Across the country, more than 75,000 AmeriCorps members are selected each year to meet critical needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment. Our programs at Springfield College focus on education.

Is AmeriCorps just for graduate students?

No. While many of our members are graduate students, more and more undergraduates are realizing AmeriCorps makes them a competitive applicant for jobs, graduate school, and future AmeriCorps placements. We also accept applications from students and community members outside of Springfield College.

Do I need prior experience to serve with AmeriCorps?

No, you do not need prior experience within education since we do provide ongoing training. We consider your related experiences and transferable skills during our selection process and do our best to place members within positions/sites that match their experience.

When does my service start/end?

You'll start your service during training, then serve from then until at least mid-June. You will serve for 10 months (a full public school academic year). See our training dates below.

Where and when is orientation?

Orientation and attendance at the Supervisor Meet and Greet are mandatory. Program orientation will take place from August 19 - 23, 2024, on the Springfield College campus. The Supervisor Meet and Greet will be announced later. Orientation is offered on a rolling basis for members who start after the program year begins.

Why should I serve with AmeriCorps?

From the hands-on experience and personal connections to the financial assistance and professional development, there are many reasons people serve with AmeriCorps.

Do I get 'paid' as an AmeriCorps member?

AmeriCorps provides financial assistance during and after your service. "Pay" during your service is called a "living allowance", and can be used for personal living expenses. Half-time members receive a stipend of up to $847.10 per month, and quarter-time members receive a stipend of up to $423.50 per month. Upon successful completion of service, you are eligible for an education award (see below), which can be applied towards qualified student loans.

Can AmeriCorps help pay off student loans?

Yes, upon successful completion of service, AmeriCorps members are eligible for the Segal Education Award, which can be applied towards qualified student loans.

Can I play a sport or have a graduate assistantship/job while serving with AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps, like school, must be a top priority. If we can see that you haven't made time for AmeriCorps, you will not be accepted to the program. We have had members in the past who have successfully served with AmeriCorps while pursuing other opportunities.

My service hours will be eligible to count towards my out-of-classroom (internship/practicum) program requirements. Do I have to do additional classwork in addition to my service to AmeriCorps?

Yes. Because AmeriCorps and your course work are two different things, you will have separate responsibilities for both. While you will gain hands-on experience with AmeriCorps, your academic program will likely require you to do much more than just your on-site service. Ask your program coordinator what your practicum/internship experience entails before committing to AmeriCorps.

What is the time commitment?

Half-time members generally serve during the school day which (depending on the site) could start as early as 7:30 a.m. and end as late as 4:30 p.m. Most members choose a three- to four- day schedule and serve five to eight hours each day (such as 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.).

Half-time members should expect to be at their site in the mornings. Members will not be able to complete their hours in time if they just serve in the afternoons.

Quarter-time members can serve during the school day or during after school hours between 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Members are encouraged to choose a three- to four- day schedule and serve three to four hours each day.