Volunteer Work by Undergraduates

Résumé du livre

Undergraduate volunteerism work is discussed, noting volunteer service can be a vital part of an undergraduate education. This service has taken many forms over the years, from folding bandages for soldiers at war, to providing tutorial services for elementary and secondary school children, to staffing medical programs in Appalachia. It encompasses paid and non-paid positions, internships or other work resulting in academic credit, and community service. Today, it may also affect student financial and related legislation. In recent years, college students have been described as narcissistic and part of the "me generation," and one study indicates a shift from civic responsibility to self-interest. There are signs, however, that current undergraduates are more altruistic, and institutional initiatives to support student volunteerism are increasing. Direct methods of encouraging student volunteerism are being considered and include an institutional or governmental community service requirement and a financial aid program linked to community service. Several successful programs to encourage undergraduates to volunteer are cited. Proposals under consideration for relating such work to financial aid are as follows: make eligibility grants and loan forgiveness dependent upon volunteer service; resurrect the G.I. Bill, with modifications; and enact legislation linking financial aid eligibility to national youth service programs. Contains 12 references. (SM)