For the 18-25 crowd.?

Question

i think that everyone should do some type of public service for about a year either after high school or college. i joined the navy with this in mind 85-89. would this idea be better accepted by this age group if you floated the idae as a national plan versus a baby boomer and would you do it?

Answer 1

Interesting - when I was in college (about 200 years ago) we debated this same idea. Every student graduating from high school would have to spend at least 1 year in public service. That could be as a military reservist, in local, state or federal service, or working in a public support capacity such as public health, education or similar. Those not graduating would have to complete a similar obligation prior to their 21st birthday, Those going onto college would have to complete their obligation within five years after graduating or dropping out of college. Most supported the idea but agreed it would be difficult to monitor and many wealthy families would find ways to get around it.

Answer 2

If it was a requirement i would definitely do it, however since it is not I have other goals with my life that I strive to accomplish.  So I guess in my view it would depend on if my country really needed me or not, and right now it doesn't.

Answer 3

if it is an obligation, nobody will like such plans.

Answer 4

It really crossed my mind a few years ago. Theres something you get from working with the broad spectrum of people , when you do things like join the military, or any form of public service.

I came from the ghettos of Fort Worth and i met people from the back hills of Virgina, to the  Island of Puerto Rico. Wow what a awakening for everyone there, it really gives you a more open perception to the world. Something i noticed alot of my peers didnt get, if they didnt do something like this. In college you're not forced to deal so intimately with such differences.

It would be interesting to see the coast guard have 11/2 year terms so people could get some experience and continute on with thier life.

Best experience, as far as being appreiciative of others, so far in my life.

Answer 5

I think that's a good idea, some kind of public service, not necessarily military, but military would be included too.  I'd go futher and suggest that if you are willing to stick with it for a longer time, then your college or vocational training can be paid for in full.  I think that 18-25's could jump on board enthusiastically depending upon who was presenting the idea and how it was presented.  But it's definitely doable.