Ruth Byrnes

2019 Graduate
Global Studies
Serving in Morocco Since Sept. 2019
Youth Development Sector
Ruth Byrnes

Please tell us a little about yourself.

I am from Phoenix, Az. As a Global Studies Major with a Human Rights, Migrations and Social Movements emphasis, I started Amnesty International Club to advocate for global human rights and support Amnesty priority campaigns. Currently, I am a UA Global Ambassador and help lead international orientations, the student Buddy Program and study abroad outreach.

Where will you be serving and what will you be doing?

I will be serving in Morocco, beginning Sept. 2019, as a Youth Development Specialist. I will be working in either a youth center or a women’s center—training and mentoring youth to improve their life skills, including communication, self-concept and decision making.

Why did you want to join the Peace Corps?

I have always known that I wanted to pursue an international career in grassroots service, community development and peace building. Ever since high school, when I first heard about the Peace Corps, I have felt strongly about that organization being the right choice for me.

What steps did you take to be a strong applicant for the Peace Corps?

I studied abroad in Guatemala and volunteered for an entire summer at Casa Jackson Hospital for Malnourished Children in Antigua. This experience inspired me to continue pursuing grassroots development work and gave me the confidence to step out of my language comfort zone. I also think being a part of UA’s Peace Corps Prep program gave me an advantage —I received notice of my Peace Corps interview; interviewed; and received my invitation to serve all within one week.

What are you most looking forward to as a Peace Corps Volunteer?

The complete immersive experience of a new culture—making relationships and memories with new people I will live and work among. And I am definitely looking forward to Moroccan food!

Are you worried about anything?

I am a little worried about learning Arabic, but my study-abroad experience in Guatemala taught me that language is a barrier I can break. I am also concerned about being homesick.