2009 Summer Program Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the cost to volunteer for Dream Corps?

Each volunteer is responsible for his/her own living (lodging, food, etc) and local traveling expenses during the official program period, and the amount is usually under 250USD.  Dream Corps will not collect the cost upfront; the volunteers will directly pay for their own expenses during the program.  Dream Corps will be responsible for the costs of the library and reading programs (ie. costs for books, other equipment, librarian training etc).

Q2: Will I be eligible for any financial assistance to cover the cost to volunteer?

You are eligible for financial assistance if 1) you were selected to be a team leader and/or 2) you currently live and/or study in mainland China.  If at least one of these criteria applies to you, you will be automatically qualified for financial assistance, and Dream Corps will reimburse your personal costs at the end of the program.

Q3: What types of external funding can I obtain to volunteer to Dream Corps?

Most Universities in the US and Canada provide numerous funding opportunities to cover the costs (usually include air-fare) of their students summer volunteer-based activities.  In the past, we have had volunteers that were funded by programs provided by Duke University, Harvard University, and University of Virginia.  We strongly encourage all applicants to take advantage of such opportunities from their respective campuses.  Our Recruitment Committee is more than happy to provide assistance with any paper work.  Please note that most campus-based grants have deadlines that are weeks ahead of our application deadline, therefore your immediate action is strongly advised.

Q4: What are the main criteria for volunteer selection?

We welcome applicants of all age (18 years and older), nationality, ethnic and educational backgrounds. An ideal applicant is a senior undergraduate student, a graduate student or a young professional who demonstrates genuine interest in the educational development in China and strong desire to contribute to the non-profit sector.  In addition, we strongly value an applicant’s leadership experiences, compassion, teamwork and the ability to adapt to harsh living environments and new cultures.  Finally, reading and spoken Mandarin is a strong asset.

Q5: Can I apply if I am currently attending high school?

While Dream Corps deeply acknowledges the passion and ability in the high school student population, we encourage them to apply after they enter University or employment. If you are in the graduating year of high school, and will be of 18 years of age or older by the beginning of the summer program, you may be considered as in special cases.

Q6 : How will each volunteer be assigned to a particular volunteer site?

Our Recruitment and Sites Committees will work together and strive to match the individual talents/skills (ex. English teaching, computer proficiency etc) of each successful applicant to the unique needs of each site. If you have a preferred site due to personal or academic reasons, please specify in your application or during your phone interview.

Q7: Approximately how many volunteers will be selected this year?

As in previous year, we will be selecting between 30-40 volunteers.

Q8: If selected as a volunteer, when will I be notified?

The first round of acceptance letters will be sent out via email by the end of February and a second round in the beginning of March. We will strive to finalize selection as early as possible to allow time for everyone to make their traveling plans.

Q9: Once I confirm my acceptance, how should I better prepare myself for the summer program?

Once you confirm your acceptance in March, you will receive online training for approximately 3 weeks (see Q10 for more details).  You will also receive a pre-departure training package from via email, which will include practical traveling information regarding obtaining your Visa, suggested vaccinations, what to bring etc.  Also, an online platform will be set up for you to meet the other volunteers and begin your team discussions.

Q10: What is expected from the online training?

Online training is required for all accepted applicants and is an integral part of the summer volunteer program. We expect every accepted applicants to actively participate.  Online training will begin soon after you confirm your acceptance to the volunteer program and will run for 3-4 weeks.  You will be expected to complete weekly readings about international development in general and Dream Corps programs in particular, and to provide your responses to certain topic discussions.  There will also be a chance for you to begin planning and discussing the summer project with your team members.  The expected amount of time spent per week is about 2-4 hours.  

Q11: What if I cannot participate for the entire duration of the program?

Because of safety and logistical reasons, we usually do not accept applicants with other plans that present partial time conflict with our summer program. If unavoidable time conflict arises after the submission of your application, please notify us as soon as possible. Please feel free to communicate with us for special cases to be considered.