FAQ
What does "Coro" stand for?
"Coro" (not C.O.R.O.) is a word chosen by the organization's founders in 1947 to describe the unique mission and methods used by Coro centers. Their vision for a program of educational discovery to prepare citizen leaders was a totally new concept. Thus Coro – a new word and one without association – was invented to represent both discovery and exploration. It is not an acronym.
What qualities are you looking for in candidates?
Coro is looking for people who have demonstrated some leadership either academically, or within a community, and have an interest in public affairs. In addition, Coro is looking for the following qualities: ability to work within a diverse group, commitment to public service, ability to work long hours/ possess high level of energy, flexibility, and intellectual curiosity.
What is a typical Coro Fellow?
A Coro Fellow is one who is idealistic but realistic, and sees himself/herself as a potential agent for change. He or she is flexible, willing to take risks, and can handle opposition. A Coro Fellow is committed to improving the democratic process.
Coroliterature says that Coro graduates are often individuals that can identify and solve problems effectively. If I were a participant of the Fellows Program, how would Coro help me develop those skills?
To help its participants become successful in the public arena, Coro works closely with Fellows to:
- Develop and enhance their skills in public speaking, negotiation/mediation, meeting facilitation, and critical thinking.
- Develop group-working skills in a unique diverse environment. Together Fellows learn how to solve common problems, take responsibility for increasing each other's effectiveness as leaders, and provide each other with continuous feedback, evaluation, and encouragement.
- Understand how the different sectors of society work and interact with each other. This is accomplished by placing Fellows in agencies such as government, business, media, non-profit, labor unions, and political campaigns.
How are Fellows assigned to a center, and can I choose which Center I go to?
In the application you have the opportunity to state your center preference. If you state a center as your top choice, it is not guaranteed that you will be chosen for that center. Unless you have serious commitments and are unable to relocate, you should keep yourself open to all centers. There is a section in the full application where you can indicate your preference for location, which center(s) you would definitely accept a fellowship, would most likely accept a fellowship, would probably not accept a fellowship, and would definitely not accept a fellowship.
Will I be able to choose my placements?
For the most part...no. Some placements are already arranged before you even start the program. You may be able to solicit your own group and individual projects later in the year, which gives you a chance to possibly work for an organization/cause of interest to you. You may make suggestions to staff for prospective placements; however, placement is the trainer's decision.
What happens after I graduate? Will I find a job soon afterward?
Coro does not have a formal job placement service. However, once you graduate, a rich networking resource of alumni, Board members, and others affiliated with Coro is available to you. If you are looking for a job, alumni and friends are always available to help guide you. In some instances, Fellows are able to get jobs through their placements (not guaranteed). In addition, if you plan to go to graduate school after the Fellows Program, there are several colleges and universities that are willing to negotiate credit toward a master's degree for completion of the Fellows Program.
