"Big Paycheck or Service?"

[kbmom]

Here's a link to an article in today's New York Times (6/23/08) titled:
"Big Paycheck or Service? Students are Put to Test"

Although the focus is on Harvard and other highly selective schools, it seems as if the notion of community/public service vs. work for pay is relevant for all graduates. What is/should be the purpose of higher education in today's world? Are students right to seek financial reward after such expensive and elite educations? Or should one feel more obligated to use one's talents and knowledge to further good in society?

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/23/ed...areers.html?hp

[pmrlcomm]

I would much rather see my kids go for the big paychecks out of school, make their lives comfortable and then be in better position to help others. Just my opinion.

[kbmom]

Also, you might enjoy checking out the related audio slide show linked to the article.

[ellemenope]

>>Are students right to seek financial reward after such expensive and elite educations? Or should one feel more obligated to use one's talents and knowledge to further good in society?<<

Are these necessarily mutually exclusive?

[kbmom]

^
Well, I do think substantial financial reward is unlikely to be compatible with significant public service or non-profit work. Teachers don't get paid well, either.
I'm not talking about making a lot of money and donating a lot. I'm talking about government or military service or non-profit or charitable work as your primary employment. Unfortunately, it seems as if it's difficult to do that and make a lot of money at the same time.

[pmrlcomm]

Most of the people I know that give their time and efforts to charity have already made their living. They can afford the lower wages or no wages in order to help out. That's why I feel it is better to get a firm, stable financial base.

[ebeeeee]

Agree with that they are not mutually exclusive. I put in a lot of volunteer time and am definitely well paid for my "real work".