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The Importance of Public Service

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Published: Jun 13, 2024

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Introduction, promoting societal equity, body paragraph 2: encouraging civic engagement, body paragraph 3: enhancing quality of life.

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The Importance of Public Service

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By Matt Rowley Posted on March 19, 2020

For some, the term “public service” brings to mind government agencies and policy changes. For others, it represents the brave men and women who put their lives on the line to save others . And still others, the concept of public service is more multifaceted, encompassing everything from the director of the local food bank to the nurses administering vaccines at the community health clinic.

The fact is public service encompasses all of these facets and then some. In this article, we explore the importance of public service and lay out four reasons why you may want to serve your community in your career.

What Is Public Service?

The technical definition of public service is a service provided by the government to the people in a specific jurisdiction. Services may be provided by the government itself, or they pay a private organization to provide them. For instance, a fire or police department is a government-run agency, but trash pickup provided by an independent contractor is a public service financed by the jurisdiction.

Why Public Service Matters

The importance of public services – and public servants – cannot be overstated. In a Pew Research survey, more than 80% of respondents said they felt the government should play a major role in responding to terrorism and natural disasters, ensuring food and medicine are safe, and managing the immigration system. Maintaining the country’s infrastructure, protecting the environment, strengthening the economy, and ensuring access to education were also considered important government priorities.

The same survey revealed that satisfaction with these efforts among Americans is relatively high. More than 70% of respondents said they thought the government was doing a “very good” or "somewhat good" job responding to natural disasters, setting standards for workplaces , keeping the country safe from terrorism, and managing food and medicine safety. Although satisfaction with certain efforts, such as the reduction of poverty, received a less favorable opinion, the ultimate takeaway is that public service matters.

Reasons to Enter Public Service

Beyond the public expectation that the government will provide certain services, public service matters for other reasons and represents a viable career option. Simply put, the array of public service career options is endless, especially as the lines between government, nonprofit agencies and the private sector become increasingly blurred. Regardless of where your passion lies, public service presents opportunities.

If you’ve been considering a career in public service, think about these four reasons to enter a field like criminal justice , EMS , emergency management , fire science , homeland security or public administration .

1. Saving Lives

Often, when you ask someone why they entered the public service , their answer is “I wanted to make a difference.” What that looks like varies from person to person. For some, it’s rewriting public policy to effect change in a specific community, while for others it’s working in the field, providing life-saving assistance in emergencies. The concept of saving lives means different things to different people, but the desire to give everyone a fair shot at life underpins nearly every public service role.

2. Improving Communities

In an essay about public service for the Alliance of Innovation, Tracy Miller, the organization’s Florida regional director, wrote “You do not have to wonder as a citizen if you will have clean water to your home, or street lights that operate, or an ambulance when you dial 911. These have become givens in our lives and it is largely due to the stewards of our public dollars who balance the needs of the people they serve.”

These services do often have challenges, and there are needs for additional services to keep a community running safely and efficiently. Entering public service provides the opportunity to become a steward of public policy and contribute to the improvements that are vital to quality of life.

3. Influencing Social Change

Community improvement isn’t only about improving fire department response times or maintaining clean playgrounds. Social change also matters, and public servants are increasingly becoming agents for social change, creating more equity in social conditions.

A great deal of public service is focused on economics and creating more efficient and sustainable services and agencies, but there’s also an increasing focus on changing how policies and programs are administered to create more equitable conditions. From tackling issues related to racism and civil liberties to building support for citywide recycling programs, the opportunities for influencing social change through public service are diverse and plentiful.

4. Personal Fulfillment

Finally, it can’t be overlooked that working in public service provides a significant source of personal fulfillment. Feeling as if you’re working for a purpose is important; after all, you will spend thousands of hours at your job every year, and work is often closely tied to your sense of identity and accomplishment.

Choosing a career in public service can add to that sense of fulfillment. It can provide opportunities to act on your altruistic desires and the sense of accomplishment that comes from knowing you made a measurable difference in the lives of others.

Education for Public Servants

At Columbia Southern University, we’re fortunate to have worked with students and alumni like Vincent Harris , Dana Osborne , Mark Sealy , Nina Taylor and many others who put their knowledge and skills to work in public service.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the public sector, check out CSU’s online degree programs in public administration, homeland security, fire science and more, all of which will give you the skills you need to make a positive difference in your community.

For more information about CSU, visit ColumbiaSouthern.edu .

Topics in This Article

• Criminal Justice
• Emergency Medical Services
• Emergency Services Management
• Fire Science
• Homeland Security
• Public Administration
• Public Service

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Federal employees share why public service is important to them

During last year’s Public Service Recognition Week, we asked federal employees to share their stories about working in government. More than 130 public servants from 45 different agencies answered. The responses shed light on why public servants view their work as important.

Many federal employees believe their work makes a difference. At the Department of Defense, Marcus S. sees himself as helping our nation become “healthier, stronger and sustainable.” Others see their impact in smaller and more specific ways. At the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Velma B. knows she’s made a difference when she talks with a grateful family for whom she helped provide housing. Likewise, Kendra A. at the Internal Revenue Service knows she has done her job well when she hears the stress in a taxpayer’s voice subside over the course of a phone conversation.

Some employees see public service as a way to bring people closer to their government. Karen S. at the National Science Foundation is passionate about using her skills to figure out “how we communicate with each other, how our leaders communicate with their teams and how our government communicates with the public.” A few respondents said that their work helps change public perceptions about government. Richard G., for instance, believes that his work at the Social Security Administration can help ensure that “the American people have confidence in the skills and character of the public servant.”

Many federal employees are also driven by their specific agency missions. Keith C., for example, shared that his job at the Texas Department of Transportation keeps bridges safe for public use. At the Cyber and Infrastructure Security Agency, Betsy K. shared her work helps strengthen the cybersecurity of government networks.

Some public servants also joined government after witnessing specific social and economic wrongs. Kirtida P. left her executive management job in medical device manufacturing and pharmaceuticals after she observed companies selling harmful medical devices for corporate profit. She now works at the Food and Drug Administration inspecting medical products before they’re sold for public use. Maria L. at the Environmental Protection Agency comes from a family of migrant farmworkers. She sees her work as an environmental scientist as important because she has firsthand knowledge about the disparities among migrant families and small rural communities.

In short, public servants see their work as important for a wide range of reasons—from helping to uphold our democracy to making one person’s day slightly better. But no matter why federal employees find their work important, they have all committed their lives to public service—and that is worth honoring.

Public Service Recognition Week is from May 2-8, 2021. Visit our website  for simple, low-cost resources that can help you and your organization celebrate, and  sign up  to receive event updates and materials for next year’s celebration.

To share your own experiences of working in the federal government and why public service is important to you, take the #IServeBecause survey here.

If you are interested in joining public service, visit  gogovernment.org , your guide as you consider, apply and secure federal employment.

Will Butler is a former intern on the Partnership’s Communications team.

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114 Public Service Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Public service is a noble profession that involves serving and helping others in various capacities. From volunteering at a local food bank to working in government agencies, public service plays a crucial role in improving the lives of individuals and communities. If you are passionate about public service and looking for inspiration for your next essay, here are 114 topic ideas and examples to help you get started.

• The importance of community service in shaping character
• How volunteering at a homeless shelter can make a difference
• The impact of public service on society
• The role of public servants in promoting social justice
• The significance of public service in times of crisis
• How public service can address societal issues such as poverty and inequality
• The challenges and rewards of working in public service
• The role of public service in promoting civic engagement
• How public service can contribute to building a stronger community
• The benefits of volunteering for personal growth and development
• The impact of public service on individual well-being
• The importance of public service in promoting environmental sustainability
• The role of public service in promoting public health
• The significance of public service in promoting education and literacy
• The challenges of working in public service during a pandemic
• The impact of public service on economic development
• The role of public service in promoting democracy and good governance
• The benefits of volunteering for mental health
• The significance of public service in promoting social cohesion
• The challenges of working in public service in a diverse society
• The impact of public service on vulnerable populations
• The role of public service in promoting human rights
• The benefits of volunteering for building social connections
• The significance of public service in promoting peace and conflict resolution
• The challenges of working in public service in a rapidly changing world
• The impact of public service on community resilience
• The role of public service in promoting ethical leadership
• The benefits of volunteering for career development
• The significance of public service in promoting cultural diversity
• The challenges of working in public service in a globalized world
• The impact of public service on sustainable development
• The role of public service in promoting social entrepreneurship
• The benefits of volunteering for building empathy and compassion
• The significance of public service in promoting gender equality
• The challenges of working in public service in a technologically advanced society
• The impact of public service on social innovation
• The role of public service in promoting inclusive growth
• The benefits of volunteering for building leadership skills
• The significance of public service in promoting intergenerational solidarity
• The challenges of working in public service in a digital age
• The impact of public service on disaster response and recovery
• The role of public service in promoting sustainable urban development
• The benefits of volunteering for building teamwork and collaboration
• The significance of public service in promoting social mobility
• The challenges of working in public service in a post-truth era
• The impact of public service on public safety and security
• The role of public service in promoting ethical behavior
• The benefits of volunteering for personal fulfillment and happiness
• The significance of public service in promoting social inclusion
• The challenges of working in public service in a time of political polarization
• The impact of public service on public infrastructure and services
• The role of public service in promoting transparency and accountability
• The benefits of volunteering for building resilience and adaptability
• The significance of public service in promoting environmental conservation
• The challenges of working in public service in the face of climate change
• The impact of public service on disaster preparedness and response
• The role of public service in promoting sustainable energy solutions
• The benefits of volunteering for building communication and interpersonal skills
• The significance of public service in promoting social justice and equity
• The challenges of working in public service in a time of economic uncertainty
• The impact of public service on public health and well-being
• The role of public service in promoting mental health awareness and support
• The benefits of volunteering for building problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• The significance of public service in promoting community resilience and recovery
• The challenges of working in public service in a time of social unrest
• The impact of public service on public transportation and infrastructure
• The role of public service in promoting affordable housing and urban development
• The benefits of volunteering for building creativity and innovation
• The significance of public service in promoting civic engagement and participation
• The challenges of working in public service in a time of technological disruption
• The impact of public service on public education and school systems
• The role of public service in promoting lifelong learning and skills development
• The benefits of volunteering for building empathy and understanding
• The significance of public service in promoting cultural preservation and heritage
• The challenges of working in public service in a time of social isolation
• The impact of public service on public transportation and mobility
• The role of public service in promoting sustainable tourism and conservation
• The significance of public service in promoting public safety and security
• The challenges of working in public service in a time of public health crisis

These are just a few ideas to get you started on your public service essay. Whether you are writing about the benefits of volunteering, the challenges of working in public service, or the impact of public service on society, there are endless possibilities for exploring this important and rewarding field. So, pick a topic that resonates with you and start writing your essay today!

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The pandemic reminds us of the importance of public service

Subscribe to the center on the united states and europe update, fiona hill fiona hill senior fellow - foreign policy , center on the united states and europe.

May 13, 2020

The week of May 4 was Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW), when the country honors those who serve as federal, state, county and local government employees and recognize the essential value of government service in American public life. PSRW was established in 1985, 35 years ago, but has not captured the popular imagination owing to persistent levels of distrust in the U.S. government. On May 4, 2020, the Brookings Institution partnered with the bipartisan National Commission on Military, National and Public Service for an event to mark the beginning of PSRW and to address ways of reversing some of the negative popular attitudes. Brookings President John R. Allen and Commission Chairman Joseph J. Heck opened the event, followed by a conversation between Allen, Heck, Commissioner Avril Haines, and Brookings Senior Fellow Isabel Sawhill. I had the pleasure of moderating the discussion.

Two decades ago, the Brookings Institution’s Center for Public Service also initiated a National Commission on the Public Service with former Federal Reserve Chair Paul Volcker and 10 commissioners drawn from both political parties with diverse experiences of public service. The final report from this effort was released in January 2003. In contrast with Brookings’s earlier effort, the National Commission on Military, National and Public Service was set up by Congress, as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017, with a two-year mandate to engage the public to produce recommendations for increasing American participation in all forms of service. Brookings scholars from the Economic Studies and Governance Studies programs took part in the exercise. Avril Haines , new Foreign Policy Program affiliate, was one of the commissioners. The commission’s interim report was issued in early 2019, in the immediate aftermath of the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history (from December 22, 2018 to January 25, 2019).

The commission released its final report, titled Inspired to Serve , in March 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, at a time when public servants, military service members, volunteers, and national service members were battling to stem the spread of the virus and to safeguard public health. In an interview with The New York Times at the beginning of April 2020, Dr. Anthony Fauci, a highly-visible member of the White House pandemic task force, and head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health, was asked how he would like to be remembered when the pandemic was finally over. He replied that, most of all, he wanted to be recognized as a dedicated public servant, who had done the best that he could to mitigate a terrible disease. In the same interview, Dr. Fauci summed up the general ethos of public service as essentially trying to fix and improve things for the greater good.

Dr. Fauci was first in the national spotlight four decades ago during the early years of the HIV/AIDS public health crisis; by 2020, he has become a household name. As a result of the pandemic, Pew polls released in April 2020 indicated an increase in positive impressions of federal agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHS), with 79% of Americans having a favorable opinion of the former and 73% of the latter. Nonetheless — as panelists discussed during the May 4 event — Dr. Fauci’s prominence, the visibility of other public servants on the frontlines of tackling the COVID-19 pandemic, and these positive polls, may not mark a durable shift in U.S. public understanding of the essential role public servants play in meeting the country’s challenges or in popular views of government service.

Next year, in 2021, the U.S. will commemorate the 60th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s call to service . Since then, other U.S. leaders have promoted public and national service in a nonpartisan or bipartisan manner, often building on the work of their predecessors. The year 2019 marked the 25th anniversary of the launch of AmeriCorps by President William J. Clinton, which President George W. Bush expanded with the creation of the USA Freedom Corps in 2002, and the Medical Reserve Corps . President Bush’s initiatives were spurred by the nation’s response to the terrorist attack of 9/11. The panelists for the May 4 event all stressed that COVID-19 will require a similar national response.

The National Commission on Military, National and Public Service’s March 2020 report offers one comprehensive approach to this response. In addition to policy recommendations, and specifically targeted legislation, the commission report proposes significant U.S. government and congressional investment in civic education to increase awareness of opportunities for the public, and to make national service the norm for Americans rather than the exception.

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Public Service and Its Responsibilities Essay

Public service refers to the set of different services offered by the government to the people under its jurisdiction, either through public or private sectors. Public service may also refer to a course that is offered in various higher learning institutions in order to equip learners with key knowledge and skills in the vast field of public administration. Public service or public administration is a field with a diverse scope, which main goal is to help in the advancement of policies and management to enable the government to carry its missions in a smooth manner. In other words, this is a field of profession primarily focused on the organization of government programmes and policies in various sectors of accountability. One of the main and striking characteristics of people within this diverse sector consists in the fact that, their services are required in all public agencies and departments. This, however, automatically makes them professionals in a number of disciplines. This nature of the service has won my heart at once, thus increasing my interest in this field.

As it can be observed, the overall responsibilities of public service usually involve outputs that can rarely be attributed to characteristics of quality or even to specific individual efforts. Public service is a field guided by commitment and dedication, which attracts only those people who are passionate about serving the communities. Having studied Political Science and Philosophy, I am interested in using community-based organizations within this specific field to make a difference in the community. My wide knowledge in public policies, coupled with rich skills acquired from previous experiences and engagements are enough to lead me into higher levels of performance within this particular field. My participation in a number of sessions and retreats has also exposed me to extensive administrative duties, thus giving me some extra knowledge as far as the practice of public administration is concerned.

My personal attributes, which include the ability to work well under pressure, fast comprehension of new concepts, and effective communication will help me effectively undertake the practice of public administration. More importantly, I will also try to utilize the basic skills of public relations that I possess in helping various segments of the community thrive in their respectful areas of commitments. My fluency in French is an added advantage to my career as a public service officer. French is arguably one of the widely-spoken languages across the world, and this clearly explains the reason why many people in the modern world have decided to study it as an alternative or the second language. This great exposure is likely to open up new opportunities to my career as well as to my personal growth, since I would be able to extend my public administration services to people of different cultural backgrounds, who may not be familiar with my first language, but can understand French. All these qualifications and experiences are instrumental in helping me achieve my goals in the diverse sector of public administration, where service to the people is a matter of priority. With all my experiences and ambitions, there is no doubt that public service has become more beneficial to me now more than ever before, and that is why I would not hesitate to embrace it fully as my favorite profession.

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What does public service mean to you?

By Julie Galante

Ahead of Veterans Day this year, we asked some HKS students who serve—and have served—in the military: What does public service mean to you? How has your military experience shaped your understanding of and connection to public service?

Here is what they shared.

David Choe MC/MPA 2024

La cañada, california u.s. army ranger.

My numerous combat deployments remind me of our dedication to one another, whether amongst my brothers and sister in arms, or the friends and family in the reaches of my heart. As I reflect on these experiences, I am moved deeply by the spirit of service shown by the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Those moments of reflection remind me to live and lead a life that makes the world a better place.

“I am moved deeply by the spirit of service shown by the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Those moments of reflection remind me to live and lead a life that makes the world a better place.”

Grace Jones MPP 2024

John f. kennedy fellowship,  belfer young leaders fellowship redding, california u.s. navy reserves, lieutenant commander.

Serving in the military helped me realize service must stem from a place of compassion. I’ve witnessed firsthand the sacrifices, camaraderie, and dedication of my shipmates. The most effective leaders exemplified compassionate service: a genuine care for one another was not merely an emotion, but a motivating factor guiding every mission.

“I’ve witnessed firsthand the sacrifices, camaraderie, and dedication of my shipmates. The most effective leaders exemplified compassionate service: a genuine care for one another was not merely an emotion, but a motivating factor guiding every mission.”

Rebecca Marshall MC/MPA 2024

Medford lakes, new jersey u.s. army foreign area officer.

I serve my country by leading soldiers in the U.S. Army to help develop engaged, responsible citizens who can contribute to society during and after their military service. While it is important to honor those who have served in the military on Veterans Day, I also recognize my HKS classmates who offer their time and energy to better our communities through their service as educators, health care providers, nonprofit professionals, or policymakers and activists.

What distinguishes members of the military from many other public servants is our unique sense of duty, selfless service, and personal courage.

When called upon, we must at a moment’s notice put aside personal cares or beliefs and fulfill our obligation to deploy to harsh, dangerous environments. We are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to protect our fellow servicemembers and civilians and to preserve the ideals and values we hold dear.

Over the last 10 years, I have lost many friends and mentors in the line of duty, and their lives and legacies are testaments to the personal and moral courage of those who wear the uniform with solemn pride. I had the privilege of serving with people of different backgrounds, religions, socioeconomic classes, and political opinions, and we always found common ground in our commitment to advance the cause of freedom. Our differences can be our greatest asset in public service.

“I had the privilege of serving with people of different backgrounds, religions, socioeconomic classes, and political opinions, and we always found common ground in our commitment to advance the cause of freedom.”

Brandon Moore MPP/MBA 2025

2023 black family fellowship ,  2023 pat tillman scholar torrington, connecticut u.s. army, captain (aviation).

Four months into our deployment to a small outpost in southeast Afghanistan, the United States began peace negotiations with the Taliban. This resulted in the “grounding” of our Apache helicopters for the foreseeable future.

We spoke almost no Pashto and they spoke little English, but the smiles and gestures of frustration when the ball landed outside the court were sufficient communication. We became friends.

Exactly one year after we departed our outpost, Afghan provinces began to fall to the Taliban. Scrolling through online images, I discovered a photo of Taliban soldiers occupying my former headquarters. Scrolling further, I saw them surrounding the barracks that housed the Afghan soldiers. I need not describe the peril they faced. I tell this story to emphasize one point: service is real. It is impactful, it matters, and the stakes are as high as they can possibly get. I also cannot put into words the privilege it was to serve alongside American, coalition, and Afghan servicemembers while fighting for a stable democracy in Afghanistan. Our mission was unambiguous, and our purpose was clear. Yet Kabul fell, and the rights of Afghan women and girls were all but eliminated. This means that our duty now is to never forget. We can never forget those who sacrificed through two bloody decades of conflict, and we cannot forget the millions of Afghans who continue to suffer to this day.

“Service is real. It matters and the stakes are as high as they can possibly get. I cannot put into words the privilege it was to serve alongside American, coalition, and Afghan servicemembers while fighting for a stable democracy in Afghanistan.”

Jon Moss MC/MPA 2024

2023 pat tillman scholar los angeles, california u.s. navy special operations (eod) officer.

My understanding of public service has been shaped by my diverse experiences, from my time in the classroom as an elementary school teacher in Compton, California, to my military service and humanitarian work.

Growing up in a dysfunctional family environment, I became acutely aware of other people’s vulnerabilities. The chaos of my early life instilled in me resilience and an ability to remain calm in the face of adversity. These experiences made me sensitive to the struggles of vulnerable communities and drove me to make a tangible difference. This led me to teach in the Compton Unified School District, where I witnessed firsthand the disparities in education and the potential of young minds when given the right opportunities.

My military experience further deepened my connection to public service. Serving as a Special Operations Bomb Technician in the Navy, I was entrusted with ensuring safety and security. This role honed my technical skills and reinforced the importance of selfless service, teamwork, and leadership. My time in the military made me realize I could leverage my skills to serve even more vulnerable populations such as the oppressed Karenni people in Burma. Witnessing their resilience and desperation, I felt a moral obligation to stand by them, to provide them with the resources and support they desperately needed. The stark contrast between the resources available in the West and the dire circumstances of the Karenni people highlighted the urgency of their plight. It was evident that their suffering demanded immediate action.

My military training and the leadership skills I acquired equipped me to make a meaningful impact in these conflict zones. But beyond the technical assistance, I realized that the most profound impact I could make was being present and making those around me feel valued and loved.

My experiences in Burma further solidified my commitment to public service. Witnessing the devastating effects of civil war and the challenges faced by Internally Displaced People (IDPs), I recognized the need for agile, grassroots solutions. The people of Burma, largely forgotten by the Western world, required sustainable solutions to empower them in the long run.

Now, as I look to the future, my vision is clear. I aim to establish a nongovernmental organization dedicated to removing weapons of war and ensuring the safety of civilians in conflict zones. I aim to collaborate with governments, international organizations, and other NGOs to create lasting solutions. My time at HKS will equip me with the policy knowledge required to realize this vision.

To me, public service is more than just a duty; it’s a calling. It’s about recognizing the interconnectedness of our shared humanity and stepping up to make a difference. My military experience has shaped my understanding of public service and instilled in me a relentless drive to serve those in need, no matter the challenges.

As we commemorate Veterans Day, I am reminded of the sacrifices made by countless individuals in the name of service. I am honored and inspired by the legacy and selfless dedication of those before me.

“To me, public service is more than just a duty; it’s a calling. It’s about recognizing the interconnectedness of our shared humanity and stepping up to make a difference.”

Omer S. Rafiq MC/MPA 2024

2023 pat tillman scholar southbridge, massachusetts u.s. marine corps, infantry officer.

As a first-generation immigrant, I have benefited from American values in more ways that I can begin to quantify. Through continued public service, I aspire to support a sustainable and inclusive democracy that uplifts everyone—and is a beacon of hope for nations across the globe to emulate.

As a military officer, integrity, empathy, resilience, and moral courage were the bedrock of my success in uniform. Being a trustee for the wellbeing of those under my charge was not only part of my job description, but also a moral imperative. The concept of "service before self" was molded in my ethos and tested repeatedly across the globe. These experiences have ignited a desire for continued public service while always prioritizing the needs of country and community before self. 

“The concept of 'service before self' was molded in my ethos and tested repeatedly across the globe. These experiences have ignited a desire for continued public service while always prioritizing the needs of country and community before self.”

Garry Schwartzman MC/MPA 2024

2023 cpl equity fellowship ,  2023 pat tillman scholar rockville, maryland u.s. army, major.

Soon after arriving in the United States, my uncle, a former Soviet refusenik, gave me a word of advice: “There are three types of people in this country—those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those who wonder what happened. Strive to become an agent of change.”

Inspired by his wisdom, I decided to serve my new country during a time of war. Nearly two decades after joining the military, I continue safeguarding the American dream to repay my debt of gratitude to my adoptive nation. Since my early days in combat supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom, through my formative years as a Combat Support Officer and now a newly minted Foreign Area Officer, I seek to advance and defend U.S. national security interests by building and strengthening America’s diplomatic and military relations with our regional partners.

“Nearly two decades after joining the military, I continue safeguarding the American dream to repay my debt of gratitude to my adoptive nation.”

Joshua Stinson PhD in Public Policy candidate

Fort walton beach, florida u.s. air force, lieutenant colonel.

When I joined the military, the opportunity to fly airplanes in combat, get an education, and pursue adventure around the world was compelling. But after wearing the uniform for over two decades, the value of public service has changed. There were plenty of adventures, combat missions, and opportunities to lead. But I never anticipated the lost time, lost friends, and lost wars.

Today, I’m clear eyed about the complex hurdles. Continued public service is deeply tied to my values of sustaining the United States government and ensuring that the U.S. military is ready to meet future challenges. Public service is now about fixing systemic issues incrementally and creating opportunities so the next generation of public servants can live up to our highest ideals.  

I remain in public service not because of ambitions of adventure and glory. Instead, I found the perseverance to lead through challenging circumstances was rewarding and profound for the public good. The opportunity to make a difference for others, even in the smallest of ways, sustains my energy to better the military, the United States, and people around the world.

The opportunity to be a part of something bigger than myself and make a small difference is why I remain committed in public service.

“I remain in public service not because of ambitions of adventure and glory. The opportunity to make a difference sustains my energy to better the military, the United States, and people around the world.”

Roni Yadlin PhD in Public Policy candidate

Irvine, california u.s. air force, lieutenant colonel, b-1 pilot.

My military experience has exposed me to a community of people dedicated to service. Everyone came to military service for unique and individual reasons, but they are all ready and willing to put those individual desires aside to serve the greater good.

Dismantling barriers for Latinx communities, one student at a time

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Pay it Forward: The Value of Public Service

George Knowles, Web Communications Associate

What does public service mean? For some, it’s volunteering at a shelter or school once a month, or donating to a charity during the holidays. For others, it’s a year-round way of life.

Efrem Ayalew, winner of AYPF’s first-ever Samuel Halperin Youth Public Service Award , is a good example. Ayalew, who wrote the award-winning essay that demonstrated his commitment to public service and helping youth, came to the Washington area from Ethiopia when he was twelve and was forced to overcome significant language and cultural barriers in order to adjust to life in the United States.

Adapting to his new surroundings was a challenge. Ayalew’s mother, who worked full-time while raising him and his four siblings, had always stressed the importance of learning. While at school, Ayalew was faced with the pressure of fitting in with his new peers, who didn’t always see the value of school. In trying to adapt, Ayalew sometimes felt torn between two worlds, the world of his family, and that of his disengaged classmates. “It is naturally easier to flow with the current of life than to swim against it. Hence, I tried to be something I was never meant to be,” Ayelew writes in his essay.

However, Ayalew’s mother, or “Lion Mother,” as he describes her, kept the pressure on, and at school Ayalew joined the Upward Bound program, a Latin American Youth Center (LAYC) initiative that served as Ayalew’s “ah-ha” moment in terms of seeing the value of education, learning, and community service. Ayalew’s family had always emphasized the importance of learning, but the concept hadn’t become tangible yet. “Learning new stuff every day seemed nice, but the bigger picture was missing in order to connect the smaller dots.”

As part of the program, Ayalew went on college tours, spent six weeks at the George Washington University, and began to form an idea of what college life was like. This moment was instrumental for Ayalew. “I started to realize a college education was not only a dream, but also a reality I could strive for,” writes Ayalew.

After completing his degree at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Ayalew felt drawn to public service, particularly helping young students achieve success. He began volunteering at Roosevelt High School in Washington, D.C. through the AmeriCorps program. Ayalew also started working as a Youth Development Specialist at Leckie Elementary School as part of the Fishing School in Washington, D.C., where he was a lead teacher in an afterschool enrichment program.

At the moment, Ayalew is a volunteer teacher’s assistant with the Maryland Multicultural Youth Center at Buck Lodge Middle School. He works mainly with English as Second Language (ESL) students in the 7 th grade. Volunteering with ESL students has a special significance for him, as he struggled to master English when he first moved to the United States.

Going forward, Ayalew remembers what it was like for him growing up and keeps the memories close. Facing a steep language barrier and cultural divide was often hard, but his early exposure to public service and his family’s emphasis on learning saw him through. Whether it’s in teaching or youth development, Ayalew would like to work to make a difference in youth outcomes, to help young people succeed and achieve what can sometimes seem like impossible dreams of going to college or improving their lives. “A lot of times students can’t see a different reality, or a way out of their neighborhood,” said Ayalew. “I want to be able to work with kids who don’t see that side of reality.”

George Knowles is the Web Communications Associate at the American Youth Policy Forum.

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The American Youth Policy Forum (AYPF), a nonprofit, nonpartisan professional development organization based in Washington, DC, provides learning opportunities for policy leaders, practitioners, and researchers working on youth and education issues at the national, state, and local levels. AYPF events and publications are made possible by contributions from philanthropic foundations. For a complete list, click here .

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Why Public Service Matters and What It Means For You

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Robert Durant, American University's School of Public Affairs Professor Emeritus and visionary behind the Online Master of Public Administration and Policy, recently wrote for The Public Purpose Journal on why public service matters and the skills needed for a career in public service. The piece was featured in the journals' first edition which is sponsored by American University's School of Public Affairs and Student Graduate Council.

Below are some excerpts from Why Public Service Matters – and What It Means For You . The full text can be accessed at The Public Purpose Journal.

Why Public Service Matters

The seven ongoing, powerful, and interrelated pressures for organizational change and development include:

• Reconceptualizing organizational purpose refers to calls for many agency and program missions and policies to be rethought in light of changing circumstances, needs, and political priorities. These include downward global economic pressures on the visible size of government, structural budget shortfalls, aging workforces, a spiraling national debt, and the rise of so-called "wicked" policy problems such as global warming where compromise has proved elusive internationally and in Washington.
• (Re)connecting with citizens and stakeholders . Reconnecting to create a "coproduction service" ethic impels managers and analysts to stop seeing policymaking and implementation as a one-way flow of expertise from their organizations to a largely passive, malleable, and receptive public.
• Redefining administrative rationality pressures stem from the alleged shortcomings of conventional bureaucratic structures. Critics claim that bureaucracies are too focused on processes and procedures, too remote from the citizens they serve, too centralized to be effective, and too inflexible to adapt on their own to be effective. Others argue that these "pathologies" are exaggerated or are actually functional in offering procedural protections for citizens. Your organization will be expected to become priority-based, customer-focused, information-driven, results-based, learning organizations. In the process, you will continue to be pressed to work collaboratively in networks with other agencies, as well as with private and nonprofit providers of goods and services.
• Reengaging financial resource pressures stem from downward pressures on tax revenues in a global economy, structurally induced budget deficits, the shifting purposes of organizations, and our evolving understanding of what works and does not work in addressing public problems.
• Recapitalizing human asset pressures are also likely to drive agency and nonprofit dynamics for years to come at all levels of government and in nonprofit organizations. This is largely because of the accelerating rate of "baby boomer" retirees that is currently underway, but it also reflects the difficulties of recruiting top-notch experts to government. Regardless, policy and program success depend critically on hiring and retaining persons with the right kinds of skills, in a timely fashion, and with credible retention plans. Equally important is ensuring that the public and nonprofit personnel performing these tasks reflect the sociodemographic characteristics of the clients they serve and the societies from which they come.
• (Re)aligning organizational subsystems refer to pressures to consider how well existing agency resources are "aligned" with—that is, support—present and future mission needs and policy priorities. What has to be aligned are administrative systems dealing with human resource management, financial management, capital investments and acquisition, IT management, and contract management. The greater number of these systems that are not aligned with policy or program goals, the less likely organizational, policy, or program success.
• Revitalizing a sense of common purpose informed by democratic constitutional values  should be a constant concern for you during your public service career, regardless of your choice of sector.This means that your agency, consulting firm, or nonprofit organization must think about more than efficiency and effectiveness.

Skills Needed For a Career in Public Service

"What kinds of knowledge, skills, and values does one need to have not just for a personally successful career but for a career that really makes a difference in citizens' lives?" You might think of these as "literacies" for public service that will make you assets in whatever organizations your career takes you.

So let's call them collectively AU's "ASSETS" regimen for public service. It goes without saying that the ASSETS regimen means reading deeply into topics related to your concentration area and widely across different fields and disciplines to understand today's and tomorrows "wicked" policy problems. But if you want to be a leader in the public service communities, you must consistently improve your abilities to think:

• Analytically
• Systemically
• Synthetically
• Technologically
• Strategically

Read more on Why Public Service Matters – and What It Means For You .

About the Author *Robert F. Durant is the visionary behind the Online Master of Public Administration and Policy program and is professor emeritus of public administration and policy at American University's on-ground programs. Among other awards, he is the recipient of the Dwight Waldo Award from the American Society for Public Administration for distinguished contributions to research in public administration and the John M. Gaus Award and Lectureship from the American Political Science Association for a lifetime of exemplary scholarship in the joint tradition of political science and public administration. His latest book is Why Public Service Matters: Public Managers, Public Policy, and Democracy (Palgrave Macmillan, 2014). He resides in Marietta, Georgia and can be reached at [email protected] .

To learn more about American University’s online Master of Public Administration and Policy, request more information or call us toll free at 855-725-7614.

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Essay: Voluntarism and Public Servants

Americans celebrate volunteers and public servants, intuitively recognizing that there is something of great value in helping your community. But often we have arrived at distorted understandings of voluntarism and public service: definitions that emphasize trivial engagement and exclude important forms of public service. Exploring the benefits of service, the rules and norms that support and promote it, and the virtues that volunteers display will provide us will a more accurate understanding of what it means to serve.

Volunteering is good for society. When a disaster strikes a community and citizens step forward to care for and comfort those who have been harmed, the benefits are immediately apparent. But the benefits go deeper and are longer lasting than just providing immediate relief to the suffering.

Volunteering promotes habits and virtues in the volunteers themselves that have lasting effects on them and on their communities.

In Democracy in America , Alexis de Tocqueville argued that a free society depended on an engaged citizenry. But engagement requires more than just occasionally voting in local, state, and national elections. Instead, Tocqueville wrote that citizens needed to develop the art of association. During his travels in America he was astonished at how readily Americans were willing to form organizations. (Alexis de Tocqueville, Democracy in America, 1835). This habit of creating civic and private associations has the effect of turning private individuals into citizens. Working with others draws individuals out of their private lives and teaches them skills necessary for self-government. Today social scientists call this “social capital,” which roughly defined is the ability of citizens to solve problems without government assistance. Developing social capital teaches individuals and groups to work together, build bases of power, and recruit others to their cause. These civic associations also teach individuals how to be leaders. They elect officers who make decisions, form committees that set policy, and deliberate about the future of the organization. These are all skills that transfer to political and personal life. Civic associations also instill a sense of dignity and power in their members.

Instead of seeing themselves as isolated and vulnerable, they begin to recognize that they have the power to create change and to control circumstances.

Working together to accomplish shared goals brings a sense of satisfaction. Being part of an association also instills a sense of pride in individuals.

When individuals are elected to an office, no matter how small, in organization it shows that it shows that their fellow citizens trust them with responsibility. One of the great dangers of a democracy is that individuals will feel powerless and succumb to a sense of fatalism. But that fatalism only makes individuals less involved and feel even more powerless and thus less willing to get involved.

Since volunteering brings important benefits to individuals and communities, it is worth considering what can be done to promote it. Tocqueville believed that the primary method is to decentralize power as much as possible. If the national government makes all the important decisions, there is little incentive for individuals to participate and volunteer. But when decisions are left to local communities, individuals can see that they can make a difference. That has the effect of pulling them out of their private lives and combatting the temptations of fatalism. As one person among hundreds of millions, citizens recognize that they can at most have a limited effect on national government, but at the local level their voice matters. But it will only matter if local communities matter. Tocqueville applauded America’s federal system precisely because it reaffirmed the importance of lower levels of government. Local governments serve as a kind of primary school for democracy where individuals first learn the art of citizenship.

Strong local governments also encourage strong civic associations. When decisions can be made at the local level individuals have an incentive to form voluntary associations to solve the problems closest to them.

If solving the problem required a permit from Washington, few would ever create civic associations. It follows, then, that democracies should remove obstacles to forming voluntary associations. Of course, the First Amendment provides support for this since it guarantees the freedom to assemble and the Supreme Court has ruled that freedom of speech also guarantees a right to expressive association, or the right to associate with groups that share our opinions. But it behooves America to encourage voluntary associations through other mechanisms.  For instance, the tax code can be used to promote or inhibit their creation. Providing tax benefits for donations to nonprofits encourages them while denying tax-exempt status to nonprofits impedes their formation. There should also be a general predisposition by Americans to accept the legitimacy of these associations even when they support positions that they individually oppose. This can be a difficult attitude to encourage.

Just as we are inclined to support free speech for those we agree with but oppose freedom of speech for those we disagree with, the same can occur with the right to association.

This analysis should make it apparent that public servants are not just those who hold public office. A wide range of people can be categorized as public servants. In fact, it is even broader than the discussion indicates. One class of people that often are not categorized as public servants but nevertheless provide services that benefit all of us are those who engage in private enterprise, particularly entrepreneurs who take on great risk with no guarantee of reward. The risks that they take serve the public in several important respects. Obviously generating ideas that lead to economic growth and prosperity benefits all of us. Entrepreneurial thinking often reveals new and more efficient ways to use natural resources. One of the extraordinary results of a free economy is that the price of natural resources tends to decline over time rather than increase. One would think that the price should go up because as more of the resource is consumed less of the resource is available, but in a free economy there is always an incentive to think more efficient ways to use resources because doing so saves money and generates profit. Thus, the counterintuitive but nevertheless true conclusion is that those engaged in private enterprise often increase the stock of resources available by creating better ways of using it.

Most importantly private enterprise provides employment for citizens which in turn breeds a sense of self-reliance. If individuals are to be free, they must be able to provide for themselves. In fact, these complement each other because providing for yourself reinforces a sense of independence, dignity, and freedom. That does not mean that assistance for those who have fallen on hardship can never be justified. However, for individuals to feel secure enough to exercise their rights and assert themselves when government violates those rights, they cannot be completely dependent on government for their economic well-being. Tocqueville showed that such dependence entices citizens to vote away their freedom for physical security, which reduces them to mere subjects or wards of the state. Once that freedom is forfeited, it is difficult, perhaps impossible, to reclaim.

It is also important to remember that not everyone holding public office is truly a public servant. While the Framers of the Constitution hoped that individuals of merit and virtue would seek and gain office, they recognized that human nature was not so accommodating and prudence dictated taking “auxiliary precautions.” James Madison said in Federalist No. 10 that “enlightened statesmen will not always be at the helm” (James Madison, Federalist No. 10, 1787). In fact, the Constitution is designed with the assumption that individuals will seek to advance their private ambitions through public office. The system of separation of powers and checks and balances is there, as Madison said in Federalist No. 51 , so that, ambition can counteract ambition (James Madison, Federalist No. 51 , 1788). While we should not encourage excessive cynicism, citizens should not uncritically accept claims of selfless public service since those very claims of self-sacrifice can be used to further private interests. The genius of the American Constitution and its elaborate system of restraints on power is that it forces those with private interests to consider the public good. That is elected officials become public servants in spite of themselves.

As Madison explains at the end of Federalist No. 51 , that the Constitution is constructed so that “a coalition of a majority of the whole society could seldom take place on any other principles than those of justice and the general good” (James Madison, Federalist No. 51 , 1788).

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Voluntarism and Public Servants

Public Service Motivation and Its Implications for Public Service

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• Lotte Bøgh Andersen 4 ,
• Ulrich Thy Jensen 5 &
• Anne Mette Kjeldsen 4  

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Public service motivation is individuals’ orientation toward delivering services to people with a purpose to do good for others and society. This type of motivation is especially relevant for public servants because it affects behavior and performance in public, nonprofit, and private provision of public services. Research consistently shows that public service motivation increases individual and organizational performance if public service providers agree with the values of the public service organizations in which they work and see the societal impact potential in their jobs. Public service motivation can be cultivated by leadership, especially if the general governance context is based on trust. Finally, public service motivation can contribute to attracting and retaining individuals in public service provision, and these individuals are socialized to prioritize doing good for others and society as part of their public service careers. This implies that public service motivation has great potential for contributing to better public service delivery, but the literature suggests that it depends on factors such as governance context. Public service motivation can have dark sides if it adds to the job demands in a context with sparse resources, an aspect that emphasizes the role of leadership.

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Andersen, L.B., Jensen, U.T., Kjeldsen, A.M. (2020). Public Service Motivation and Its Implications for Public Service. In: Sullivan, H., Dickinson, H., Henderson, H. (eds) The Palgrave Handbook of the Public Servant. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-03008-7_81-1

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How to Write a Great Community Service Essay

College Admissions , Extracurriculars

Are you applying to a college or a scholarship that requires a community service essay? Do you know how to write an essay that will impress readers and clearly show the impact your work had on yourself and others?

Read on to learn step-by-step instructions for writing a great community service essay that will help you stand out and be memorable.

What Is a Community Service Essay? Why Do You Need One?

A community service essay is an essay that describes the volunteer work you did and the impact it had on you and your community. Community service essays can vary widely depending on specific requirements listed in the application, but, in general, they describe the work you did, why you found the work important, and how it benefited people around you.

Community service essays are typically needed for two reasons:

#1: To Apply to College

• Some colleges require students to write community service essays as part of their application or to be eligible for certain scholarships.
• You may also choose to highlight your community service work in your personal statement.

#2: To Apply for Scholarships

• Some scholarships are specifically awarded to students with exceptional community service experiences, and many use community service essays to help choose scholarship recipients.
• Green Mountain College offers one of the most famous of these scholarships. Their "Make a Difference Scholarship" offers full tuition, room, and board to students who have demonstrated a significant, positive impact through their community service

Getting Started With Your Essay

In the following sections, I'll go over each step of how to plan and write your essay. I'll also include sample excerpts for you to look through so you can get a better idea of what readers are looking for when they review your essay.

Step 1: Know the Essay Requirements

Before your start writing a single word, you should be familiar with the essay prompt. Each college or scholarship will have different requirements for their essay, so make sure you read these carefully and understand them.

Specific things to pay attention to include:

• Length requirement
• Application deadline
• The main purpose or focus of the essay
• If the essay should follow a specific structure

Below are three real community service essay prompts. Read through them and notice how much they vary in terms of length, detail, and what information the writer should include.

From the Equitable Excellence Scholarship:

"Describe your outstanding achievement in depth and provide the specific planning, training, goals, and steps taken to make the accomplishment successful. Include details about your role and highlight leadership you provided. Your essay must be a minimum of 350 words but not more than 600 words."

From the Laura W. Bush Traveling Scholarship:

"Essay (up to 500 words, double spaced) explaining your interest in being considered for the award and how your proposed project reflects or is related to both UNESCO's mandate and U.S. interests in promoting peace by sharing advances in education, science, culture, and communications."

From the LULAC National Scholarship Fund:

"Please type or print an essay of 300 words (maximum) on how your academic studies will contribute to your personal & professional goals. In addition, please discuss any community service or extracurricular activities you have been involved in that relate to your goals."

Step 2: Brainstorm Ideas

Even after you understand what the essay should be about, it can still be difficult to begin writing. Answer the following questions to help brainstorm essay ideas. You may be able to incorporate your answers into your essay.

• What community service activity that you've participated in has meant the most to you?
• What is your favorite memory from performing community service?
• Why did you decide to begin community service?
• What made you decide to volunteer where you did?
• How has your community service changed you?
• How has your community service helped others?
• How has your community service affected your plans for the future?

You don't need to answer all the questions, but if you find you have a lot of ideas for one of two of them, those may be things you want to include in your essay.

Writing Your Essay

How you structure your essay will depend on the requirements of the scholarship or school you are applying to. You may give an overview of all the work you did as a volunteer, or highlight a particularly memorable experience. You may focus on your personal growth or how your community benefited.

Regardless of the specific structure requested, follow the guidelines below to make sure your community service essay is memorable and clearly shows the impact of your work.

Samples of mediocre and excellent essays are included below to give you a better idea of how you should draft your own essay.

Step 1: Hook Your Reader In

You want the person reading your essay to be interested, so your first sentence should hook them in and entice them to read more. A good way to do this is to start in the middle of the action. Your first sentence could describe you helping build a house, releasing a rescued animal back to the wild, watching a student you tutored read a book on their own, or something else that quickly gets the reader interested. This will help set your essay apart and make it more memorable.

Compare these two opening sentences:

"I have volunteered at the Wishbone Pet Shelter for three years."

"The moment I saw the starving, mud-splattered puppy brought into the shelter with its tail between its legs, I knew I'd do whatever I could to save it."

The first sentence is a very general, bland statement. The majority of community service essays probably begin a lot like it, but it gives the reader little information and does nothing to draw them in. On the other hand, the second sentence begins immediately with action and helps persuade the reader to keep reading so they can learn what happened to the dog.

Step 2: Discuss the Work You Did

Once you've hooked your reader in with your first sentence, tell them about your community service experiences. State where you work, when you began working, how much time you've spent there, and what your main duties include. This will help the reader quickly put the rest of the essay in context and understand the basics of your community service work.

Not including basic details about your community service could leave your reader confused.

Step 3: Include Specific Details

It's the details of your community service that make your experience unique and memorable, so go into the specifics of what you did.

For example, don't just say you volunteered at a nursing home; talk about reading Mrs. Johnson her favorite book, watching Mr. Scott win at bingo, and seeing the residents play games with their grandchildren at the family day you organized. Try to include specific activities, moments, and people in your essay. Having details like these let the readers really understand what work you did and how it differs from other volunteer experiences.

Compare these two passages:

"For my volunteer work, I tutored children at a local elementary school. I helped them improve their math skills and become more confident students."

"As a volunteer at York Elementary School, I worked one-on-one with second and third graders who struggled with their math skills, particularly addition, subtraction, and fractions. As part of my work, I would create practice problems and quizzes and try to connect math to the students' interests. One of my favorite memories was when Sara, a student I had been working with for several weeks, told me that she enjoyed the math problems I had created about a girl buying and selling horses so much that she asked to help me create math problems for other students."

The first passage only gives basic information about the work done by the volunteer; there is very little detail included, and no evidence is given to support her claims. How did she help students improve their math skills? How did she know they were becoming more confident?

The second passage is much more detailed. It recounts a specific story and explains more fully what kind of work the volunteer did, as well as a specific instance of a student becoming more confident with her math skills. Providing more detail in your essay helps support your claims as well as make your essay more memorable and unique.

Step 4: Show Your Personality

It would be very hard to get a scholarship or place at a school if none of your readers felt like they knew much about you after finishing your essay, so make sure that your essay shows your personality. The way to do this is to state your personal strengths, then provide examples to support your claims. Take some time to think about which parts of your personality you would like your essay to highlight, then write about specific examples to show this.

• If you want to show that you're a motivated leader, describe a time when you organized an event or supervised other volunteers.
• If you want to show your teamwork skills, write about a time you helped a group of people work together better.
• If you want to show that you're a compassionate animal lover, write about taking care of neglected shelter animals and helping each of them find homes.

Step 5: State What You Accomplished

After you have described your community service and given specific examples of your work, you want to begin to wrap your essay up by stating your accomplishments. What was the impact of your community service? Did you build a house for a family to move into? Help students improve their reading skills? Clean up a local park? Make sure the impact of your work is clear; don't be worried about bragging here.

If you can include specific numbers, that will also strengthen your essay. Saying "I delivered meals to 24 home-bound senior citizens" is a stronger example than just saying "I delivered meals to lots of senior citizens."

Also be sure to explain why your work matters. Why is what you did important? Did it provide more parks for kids to play in? Help students get better grades? Give people medical care who would otherwise not have gotten it? This is an important part of your essay, so make sure to go into enough detail that your readers will know exactly what you accomplished and how it helped your community.

"My biggest accomplishment during my community service was helping to organize a family event at the retirement home. The children and grandchildren of many residents attended, and they all enjoyed playing games and watching movies together."

"The community service accomplishment that I'm most proud of is the work I did to help organize the First Annual Family Fun Day at the retirement home. My job was to design and organize fun activities that senior citizens and their younger relatives could enjoy. The event lasted eight hours and included ten different games, two performances, and a movie screening with popcorn. Almost 200 residents and family members attended throughout the day. This event was important because it provided an opportunity for senior citizens to connect with their family members in a way they aren't often able to. It also made the retirement home seem more fun and enjoyable to children, and we have seen an increase in the number of kids coming to visit their grandparents since the event."

The second passage is stronger for a variety of reasons. First, it goes into much more detail about the work the volunteer did. The first passage only states that she helped "organize a family event." That really doesn't tell readers much about her work or what her responsibilities were. The second passage is much clearer; her job was to "design and organize fun activities."

The second passage also explains the event in more depth. A family day can be many things; remember that your readers are likely not familiar with what you're talking about, so details help them get a clearer picture.

Lastly, the second passage makes the importance of the event clear: it helped residents connect with younger family members, and it helped retirement homes seem less intimidating to children, so now some residents see their grand kids more often.

Step 6: Discuss What You Learned

One of the final things to include in your essay should be the impact that your community service had on you. You can discuss skills you learned, such as carpentry, public speaking, animal care, or another skill.

You can also talk about how you changed personally. Are you more patient now? More understanding of others? Do you have a better idea of the type of career you want? Go into depth about this, but be honest. Don't say your community service changed your life if it didn't because trite statements won't impress readers.

In order to support your statements, provide more examples. If you say you're more patient now, how do you know this? Do you get less frustrated while playing with your younger siblings? Are you more willing to help group partners who are struggling with their part of the work? You've probably noticed by now that including specific examples and details is one of the best ways to create a strong and believable essay .

"As a result of my community service, I learned a lot about building houses and became a more mature person."

"As a result of my community service, I gained hands-on experience in construction. I learned how to read blueprints, use a hammer and nails, and begin constructing the foundation of a two-bedroom house. Working on the house could be challenging at times, but it taught me to appreciate the value of hard work and be more willing to pitch in when I see someone needs help. My dad has just started building a shed in our backyard, and I offered to help him with it because I know from my community service how much work it is. I also appreciate my own house more, and I know how lucky I am to have a roof over my head."

The second passage is more impressive and memorable because it describes the skills the writer learned in more detail and recounts a specific story that supports her claim that her community service changed her and made her more helpful.

Step 7: Finish Strong

Just as you started your essay in a way that would grab readers' attention, you want to finish your essay on a strong note as well. A good way to end your essay is to state again the impact your work had on you, your community, or both. Reiterate how you changed as a result of your community service, why you found the work important, or how it helped others.

Compare these two concluding statements:

"In conclusion, I learned a lot from my community service at my local museum, and I hope to keep volunteering and learning more about history."

"To conclude, volunteering at my city's American History Museum has been a great experience. By leading tours and participating in special events, I became better at public speaking and am now more comfortable starting conversations with people. In return, I was able to get more community members interested in history and our local museum. My interest in history has deepened, and I look forward to studying the subject in college and hopefully continuing my volunteer work at my university's own museum."

The second passage takes each point made in the first passage and expands upon it. In a few sentences, the second passage is able to clearly convey what work the volunteer did, how she changed, and how her volunteer work benefited her community.

The author of the second passage also ends her essay discussing her future and how she'd like to continue her community service, which is a good way to wrap things up because it shows your readers that you are committed to community service for the long-term.

What's Next?

Are you applying to a community service scholarship or thinking about it? We have a complete list of all the community service scholarships available to help get your search started!

Do you need a community service letter as well? We have a step-by-step guide that will tell you how to get a great reference letter from your community service supervisor.

Thinking about doing community service abroad? Before you sign up, read our guide on some of the hazards of international volunteer trips and how to know if it's the right choice for you.

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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