The Importance of Volunteering
Mauri Rapp
1Today's high school students lead hectic lives. Between classes, extracurricular activities, and part-time jobs, many teens have little free time. Although most students would prefer to spend their downtime hanging out with friends, it's important for students to incorporate volunteering into their schedules. Volunteering is a wonderful way to make new acquaintances while learning about civic duty and pride. Volunteering can also help you stand out among the thousands of other anonymous students applying to college. In addition, it's extremely gratifying to know that you're making a difference. 2One major benefit of volunteering is social interaction. Volunteering affords you the opportunity to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds. These people may become your lifelong friends. You'll also learn how to collaborate with new people to reach a common goal. Meeting new people is a great way to expand your interests. New friends can introduce you to exciting hobbies and teach you new skills. Volunteering also helps introverted students develop confidence and self-esteem. There's no reason to agonize over meeting other volunteers. You'll soon discover that volunteer organizations are extremely inclusive. This can alleviate any fears you might have about not fitting in with the group. 3Volunteering also shows students what it takes to keep a community operating smoothly. Participating in roadside cleanups or planting trees around town will help you realize the enormous amount of effort it takes to keep a city sparkling. Becoming a junior councilperson and attending town meetings will enhance your understanding of the dilemmas that preoccupy your municipal leaders. Volunteering at local preschools or senior centers teaches you compassion while showing you how people in the community care for one another. Volunteering can also help you with your career aspirations. It may even "inspire you" to become a civic leader. 4Volunteering is also a phenomenal addition to your college applications. It gives you an advantage over other students who didn't volunteer in high school. A record of volunteerism shows prospective colleges that you're an accomplished individual with many interests. Volunteering also tells admissions counselors that you're active in your community, meaning that you'll likely participate in campus activities, school fundraisers, and other university programs. Counselors often select students who take pride in their community because they know these students will demonstrate the same pride for their school. 5Although volunteering might seem strenuous, it doesn't have to be! Make volunteering less laborious by joining a program that complements your interests. If you love animals, consider donating your time to a local shelter. Students who adore reading might volunteer for story hour at the neighborhood library. Athletes can offer to coach little league teams or referee scrimmages. If there isn't a volunteer program that suits your interests, establish one yourself. Not only will you be helping your community, but you'll also gain leadership experience. Remember, volunteering isn't just about helping others-it's an invaluable experience that teaches you about yourself!
Which statement BEST describes the overall approach of the author to his topic?
A The author tells personal stories of his volunteer experiences to persuade more teens to volunteer.
B The author lists several drawbacks to not volunteering in order to persuade more teens to volunteer.
C The author lists several benefits that result from volunteering to persuade more teens to volunteer.
D The author cites many statistics and psychological studies to prove that volunteering has many benefits.