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Redefining Service in America: A Broader Perspective
In recent discussions about service within American society, it has become apparent that the definition of “service” is evolving. Chris Hayes highlights a notable trend: the number of military veterans in Congress has decreased below that of the general population, a reversal from the situation in 1995. Concurrently, our willingness to engage in military endeavors has intensified.
Reflecting on my own education at prestigious institutions like Exeter and Brown, I realize that I did not encounter many peers who chose military service. In fact, the only individual I remember who pursued a military path was a classmate at Columbia Law School who joined the JAG Corps. For many graduates from elite schools, the concept of service tends to lean more towards social contributions—helping others in non-military contexts.
While universities such as Harvard, Yale, and Columbia have reinstated ROTC programs, there exists a broader array of non-military service opportunities. Initiatives like Teach for America, the Peace Corps, and City Year promote the idea that service is synonymous with educational and community support roles.
My Personal Journey Toward Service
Upon graduating in the mid-1990s, I did not initially consider these options. Instead, I went straight to law school and began my career as a corporate attorney. Although I participated in pro bono work and volunteered when possible, those activities felt secondary to my professional ambitions. Many young adults today share similar aspirations: securing a good job, managing living expenses, and maybe volunteering occasionally. These ambitions—while self-focused—reflect a natural human drive to provide for oneself and one’s family, as Theodore Roosevelt once noted.
However, when I began my work in corporate law, I quickly discovered that it was not fulfilling. It wasn’t that I wasn’t helping others; it was the feeling that my contributions lacked meaning. My work felt interchangeable, and I questioned whether I was truly creating value.
Seeking a more impactful path, I co-founded Stargiving.com, a platform designed to assist celebrities in fundraising for charities through digital engagement. Although the venture ultimately failed, it marked a turning point in my understanding of service. My subsequent roles at various startups, including a mobile software company and Manhattan GMAT, were driven by a desire to feel that I was making a difference. The focus shifted from merely helping others to creating value and fostering opportunities, both for myself and for those around me.
The Importance of a Broader Definition of Service
While military service and working with disadvantaged populations are commendable paths, they are not the only routes to a meaningful contribution. Many capable individuals, particularly those idealistic young people who join large nonprofits, often face frustration and burnout within rigid structures. By expanding the definition of service to encompass helping organizations thrive, creating value, and generating new opportunities, we empower young professionals to engage in sustainable pursuits that also propel society forward.
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In summary, rethinking the notion of service in America allows for a more inclusive understanding of how individuals can contribute positively to society. By recognizing various forms of value creation and impact, we inspire a new generation to pursue paths that resonate with their personal and professional aspirations.