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  MACC AmeriCorps*VISTA: Frequently Asked Questions

Where do MACC AmeriCorps*VISTA members serve?
VISTA members serve at colleges and universities across the state of Massachusetts. Our sites include public and private, as well as two and four year institutions.

Can I pick where I serve?
MACC places VISTA members on campuses, based on the work plan for that specific campus and the skills, interests, and experiences of the VISTA member. We do take geographic preference into consideration when placing members.

How long is my VISTA service?
VISTA members serve for one year (12 months). Members can (and often do!) sign on for an additional years of service, up to three VISTA terms.

When does the year of service start?
The year of service starts with a six day Pre-Service Orientation (PSO) at Endicott College on the shores of Beverly, MA. This year's PSO will start on Sunday, July 20, 2008 and run through Friday, July 25, 2008. VISTA members will report to their campuses for the first day of work on Monday, July 28, 2008.

What are the benefits?
MACC AmeriCorps*VISTA members receive a monthly living allowance ($949 before taxes), student loan forbearance for qualified federally backed loans, health coverage (check out http://americorps.sevencorners.com for more info), travel to Pre-Service Orientation, and/or a relocation allowance, as well as a $4,725 Educational Award upon completion of service.

Can I get a part time job on the side?
All AmeriCorps*VISTA members are considered on the job "24/7." Therefore, members may not have any other outside employment or be enrolled in school full time.

How do I apply?
MACC has a two part application process. Submit a cover letter, résumé, and the names and contact information of four (4) references to Karen Chisholm, Director, MACC AmeriCorps*VISTA Program at Karen.chisholm@tufts.edu. You'll also need to complete the online AmeriCorps application, which can be found at www.americorps.org under the For Individuals/Join Now section.

What happens after I submit my application?
Someone from our staff will contact you to schedule a phone interview. Phone interviews begin in early March, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis. If you have any questions at any point in the application process, please contact AmeriCorps*VISTA Leader Carly Bruder at carly.bruder@tufts.edu.

I'm moving from out of state and I've never even been to the city where I'll be working. What do I do?
Don't worry, MACC has plenty of resources to help new VISTA members adjust to living in Massachusetts. We can provide you resources around finding affordable housing and accessing public resources in the state. We also have an extensive alumni network that loves to welcome new VISTAs to the neighborhood, and can connect you with other incoming MACC VISTA members if you are looking for roommates. Talk to the VISTA Leader to find out more about these options.

What kinds of training opportunities are available to me as a MACC AmeriCorps*VISTA?
Each year, the VISTA Leaders and Program Director work together to create a training curriculum that suits the needs of members. Members frequently recommend training topics and facilitate workshops in areas of expertise. In the past, trainings have included:
grant writing, grant review, public speaking, situational leadership, building effective partnerships, fundraising, diversity training and social justice education, conflict resolution, designing and facilitating reflection, program evaluation, strategies for sustainability, web-site and graphic design, student development theory, recruitment and retention of volunteers, service learning 101, careers in the common good, team-building, ropes courses and outdoor initiatives, asset-based community development, community organizing, college access, working with students with disabilities and creating inclusive programs, GLBTQ and creating inclusive programs.

What do MACC AmeriCorps*VISTA members do after their year of service?
Members go on to a variety of post-service opportunities, while others choose to stay on for a second (or third!) year of service. Past members have moved onto:

  • Assistant Dean of Students, Roger Williams University
  • Service-Learning Coordinator, Center for Public Service, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  • Director, Community Service and Learning, Wentworth Institute of Technology Congressional staff member
  • Curriculum Outreach Coordinator, USS Constitution Museum
  • Homelessness Advocate
  • Community Foundation Project Director
  • Program Manager, Best Buddies
  • Coordinator for Freshmen Programs, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  • High School Art Teacher, Middle School Teacher, College Instructor
  • Corporate Trainer
  • Assistant Director, Northeastern University Center for Community Service
  • Presidential Management Intern
  • Director of Service-Learning, Simmons College
  • Civilian Complaint Investigator, NYPD
  • Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admission, Suffolk University
  • Early Outreach Coordinator, ACCESS
  • Peace Corps Volunteer
  • Graduate Study in: Law, Public Policy, Medicine, Urban Planning, Education, American Studies, Higher Education Administration, Student Affairs, Social Work, Non-Profit Management, Social Psychology