In recent discussions, it has become evident that the landscape of service in America is shifting. Chris Johnson notes that the percentage of Congress members with military experience has decreased, contrasting with the broader population, a reversal of trends observed until 1995. Simultaneously, our nation appears more willing to engage in military interventions than in previous decades.
Reflecting on my own academic journey through elite institutions like Exeter and Harvard, I realized that very few of my peers chose military service. Instead, the prevailing notion of “service” among graduates leaned towards social engagement—working to uplift communities rather than enlisting in the armed forces. While some prestigious universities have reinstated ROTC programs, alternatives such as Teach for America and the Peace Corps dominate the discussion, emphasizing roles in education and non-profit sectors.
When I graduated in the mid-90s, I didn’t seriously contemplate these paths. My trajectory led me straight into law school and subsequently into corporate law. My engagement in pro bono work and volunteering was secondary, overshadowed by my professional ambitions. This sentiment is common among young adults today, where aspirations often focus on securing stable employment, financial independence, and personal growth. As Theodore Roosevelt aptly stated, one’s primary responsibility lies in providing for oneself and one’s family before extending help to others.
However, upon entering the legal profession, I found corporate law to be misaligned with my values. The work felt trivial, lacking meaningful impact. I realized that my contributions were interchangeable; someone else could easily fulfill my role without any noticeable difference. This led me to co-found Stargiving.com, a platform aimed at facilitating charitable fundraising through celebrity endorsements. Although the venture ultimately faltered, it marked a significant shift in my career trajectory.
My subsequent roles in various startups were not solely about altruism; they were driven by a desire for personal fulfillment and the conviction that my work was creating value. I sought environments where my efforts were meaningful and impactful. This mindset propelled me to establish Venture for America, an initiative designed to connect ambitious graduates with early-stage companies in cities like Detroit and New Orleans, fostering job growth and entrepreneurship. Our target is to generate 100,000 new jobs by 2025.
While individuals who serve in the military or dedicate themselves to humanitarian efforts deserve commendation, it is essential to recognize that service can take many forms. Broadening our understanding to include contributions that enhance organizational success and generate opportunities can empower more young people to pursue sustainable careers that benefit society.
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In conclusion, redefining service in America involves acknowledging diverse forms of contributions that extend beyond traditional military or charity work, encouraging a broader spectrum of engagement that aligns with individual aspirations and societal needs.
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