Jonathan Garcia ’16 Departs for Namibia for Peace Corps Service

During his time at Purchase, Jonathan Garcia ’16 was a very familiar face to many. In addition to studying sociology, he spent much of his free time helping others through his work as a study abroad advisor, an Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) mentor and advisor, a teaching assistant, and a resident assistant.

Since graduation, Garcia has worked with several organizations and the New York City’s mayor’s office to implement more mental health support programs for low-income and at-risk populations. He has also worked alongside the city as a career advancement coach to ensure that underprivileged students ages 16 to 24 obtain job readiness and internships through young adult internship programs.

Now, Garcia is ready to deepen his commitment to service and take the next step in his career. Originally from the Bronx, Garcia will be leaving New York City to begin training with the Peace Corps in Namibia on August 13. Once in Namibia, he will live with a host family to become fully immersed in the country’s language and culture. After acquiring the necessary skills to assist his community, he will teach English at a secondary school for two years.

Garcia will work in cooperation with the local people and partner organizations on sustainable, community-based development projects that improve the lives of people in Namibia and help Garcia develop leadership, technical and cross-cultural skills. According to the Peace Corps, volunteers return from service as global citizens well-positioned for professional opportunities in today’s global job market.

“The idea of helping people in need was the main thing that attracted me to the Peace Corps,” said Garcia. “I find pure happiness in helping others.”