BereaCorps offers a “safe zone,” real-world, practical job experience that also provides professional development workshops throughout the year. In addition, participants benefit from being part of a cohort that includes other recent Berea College graduates, providing for a supportive environment during their first year out of college.

For participation in the program, coursework must be completed before the start of a participant’s contract. If courses need to be completed during the summer term, eligibility to apply will open the following application year.

Graduating F-1 students are eligible to apply for BereaCorps positions in accordance to the Optional Practical Training (OPT) process. The position description and duties must align with the major of an F-1 applicant. If interested in applying to the program, it is highly encouraged to apply for OPT as early as possible. For more information about your particular case, please contact Kye Anderson in the Center for International Education.

*Due to the nature of the OPT policy, F-1 participants are not eligible for a second-year renewal unless their major and the position are related to STEM fields.

The number of available positions is dependent upon the current year members and their contract terms. To view the current list of openings visit the Human Resources website.

All participants will go through an extensive training process, have access to numerous professional development resources and experience continuous on the job training. The BereaCorps program is focused on developing young professionals who are responsible individuals willing to learn and grow with a desire to give back to the College and support its mission.