Answering the Call to Serve: Tommy Kolovos’s Journey from GovState to the Peace Corps
Tommy Kolovos turned his passion for global service into a career, recently completing his service in Colombo, Sri Lanka, as an Education volunteer with the Peace Corps. He earned his B.A. in Sociology and Anthropology in 2019 and his M.A. in Political and Social Justice Studies in 2021 at Governors State University, where he built the skills and perspective to thrive in diverse cultural communities.
Tommy chose GovState after earning his associate degree from Joliet Junior College, influenced in part by his stepmother, a GovState alum. Highlights of his university experience include the Honors Seminar in Rome and service trips to Panama with Dr. Nicole Bing and Dr. Phyllis West, where he provided legal empowerment to local communities.
Initially determined to become an attorney, Tommy took a service trip to Panama, providing legal empowerment to the Wounaan community in Pueblo Nuevo while assisting South American attorneys. It was during this trip that Dr. Phyllis West, a former Peace Corps volunteer, suggested he consider joining the Peace Corps—a suggestion he initially dismissed.
“Me? I can’t be like them,” Tommy recalls thinking. “I have an iced coffee three times a day. I can’t do it. No way.”
Yet the seed had been planted. After further reflection, he accepted a Peace Corps assignment in Madagascar as an English teacher in 2019. He has since completed his two-year commitment in Sri Lanka, continuing his dedication to education and cross-cultural service.
Tommy’s background in sociology and anthropology, along with the guidance of professors like Dr. Daniel Cortese and Dr. Frances Kostarelos, prepared him for working in international and cross-cultural environments. He maintains close relationships with both professors and credits them for shaping his perspective.
Reflecting on his time at GovState, Tommy shares, “I wouldn’t be who I am without everyone at Governors State.”
Through these experiences, GovState gave Tommy the practical and theoretical knowledge needed to thrive in international settings. His journey reflects the university’s commitment to community engagement, social justice, and preparing students to make an impact far beyond the classroom.
Author: Gillian Vinson, Alumni Relations Engagement Coordinator