An uplifting break: College students should consider service instead of just parties

You have seen the television reports and the programs depicting what actually goes on when college students head to the beaches for spring break.

And as you know, especially if you made one of those trips yourself, community service is not on the minds of the thousands of students who flock to the hotspots every year.

But what if it were?

What if, instead of beer and debauchery, college students were encouraged to give back to their communities in some form as part of their final education experience? Spring break is a perfect time for that. Or, if you don’t want to touch spring break, what if students were required to complete some form of service before they got their diplomas?

Is it possible they might have a different view of the world and be one step closer to responsible adulthood?

It is definitely something to consider.

There is nothing wrong with having fun while you are young. We all did it. But adding a bit of perspective along with an education is an invaluable gift to the next generation. Spring break seems like a good place to start.

Published in Editorials on March 15, 2007 11:27 AM