More students participate in community service than pursue jobs in that field.
Jack Walls, career counselor at Career Development Services, said they have two types of students who come for advising.
The first is a group of students called to serve. Walls said they are top-notch students with a high GPA. They are interested in Teach For America or the Peace Corps, and they are not concerned about the money.
"They are trying to get experience before they go on to a professional school of some kind," Walls said.
Teach for America is a two-year commitment and provides the opportunity to earn a master's degree at the same time for free.
Sam Lamere, senior in political science, will be teaching secondary Spanish as a part of Teach For America in Nashville, Tenn.
"I wanted to do something where I felt like I was having an impact," Lamere said.
Lamere said growing up in a blessed home where there was always food on the table, family there to comfort her and teachers that cared about how she performed academically, she felt compelled to give back to those less fortunate.
"I wanted to have an impact while I'm young and care about this stuff--while I'm able to make a difference," Lamere said. "I want to continue to make a difference throughout my life and think that this will open so many doors to be able to do that for the rest of my life."
After her stint with Teach For America, Lamere will attend law school and focus in public law.
The second type of service-oriented students are those looking to make a career by working in nonprofit or performing mission work.
Walls said he advises students to pick a major that suits them and their ambitions.
In addition, he encourages students to volunteer frequently and to shoot for an internship with an organization like the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Walls also suggests minoring in community and civic engagement, an interdisciplinary minor that provides knowledge to students through practical contributions with the common good and interactions with the community.
"For those hoping to pursue careers of service, this hands-on approach will be an invaluable asset," said Giovanna Summerfield, director of the arts and faculty initiatives.
"We have a list of AU graduates who have become leaders and key staff in nonprofit organizations. Every academic year, we have asked at least one of our former students to come and interact with our current students to encourage them, inspire them and provide them further role models and pertinent sources of network and knowledge."
Summerfield said the community and civic engagement minor will provide context, skills, tools and methods for understanding and addressing public issues. Also, at least one service learning class will be completed.
"If this is your calling, then you are going to be able to do it," Walls said.
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