Some people have recently suggested that all high school graduates in the United States should be required to complete one year of service before entering college or the work force. Options for this service could include: volunteering at schools or hospitals, working in national or state parks, building or repairing homes, and could also be satisfied by joining the military. Participants would be paid a monthly salary that would be just enough to cover rent, food, and leave just a little bit extra. Do you agree, disagree, or would you qualify the claim that a national year of required service should be implemented?

It would certainly be useful for the graduates to volunteer. This is a valuable experience for the future, and a unique opportunity for the students to do some of the jobs which are listed. They are unlikely to volunteer at hospitals later in life, unless they opt for a medical discipline. Moreover, majority of the students will not choose a career of working in a park or repairing homes, and especially not a military career. This is, therefore, a good opportunity to try something new and out of the ordinary. As a result, they will acquire certain working habits, and see what it is like to have a real responsibility. Finally, they will be able to earn extra money, which, for some students that come from poorer families, is a great advantage.