By Erin Kelly

After graduating college, alumni who seek jobs or potential careers may find future employers expecting them to possess leadership and problem-solving skills.

Students can develop these skills through alternative post-graduation programs, like the Peace Corps, Americorps or other service opportunities, experts said.

“To be engaged in tackling America’s toughest problems and, in the process, gain leadership and problem-solving skills – that is hard to match in any other job right out of college,” said Sandy Scott, director of public affairs for Americorps.

Americorps offers opportunities for adults to serve through a network of partnerships with local and national non-profit groups, according to the program’s website. The website states its mission is to “improve lives, strengthen communities and foster civic engagement through service and volunteering.”

The Peace Corps, according to its website, is an organization established in 1961 by John F. Kennedy to promote peace and friendship.

The number of students interested in alternative post-graduation plans involving volunteering and service on Northeastern campus has been increasing, said Maria Stein, director of career services.

As a result, the Career Services Department is taking a more active role in bringing company service opportunities through Companies That Care, a program that brings representatives from volunteer corporations and programs to the Northeastern campus to speak to students, Stein said.

“We bring in a different non-profit, socially responsible program a week, such as the Peace Corps, Teach For America, Boston Teaching Resident Program, Americorps and Peace Games.