Academic Discussion · Set 2

Your professor is teaching a class on society. Write a post responding to the professor's question. Contribute your own opinion and reasons, and add to the discussion.

Professor Owens: Some people think that volunteering should be a required part of every student's education, while others believe it should remain a personal choice. What is your view, and why?

Student (Amara): I think it should be required. Volunteering builds empathy, teaches responsibility, and connects students with their communities. For example, when my class volunteered at a local shelter, several students who had never considered social work discovered a genuine interest in it.

Student (Kenji): I disagree. Volunteering only has real value when it comes from genuine willingness. If it is forced, students may do it half-heartedly, and it loses its meaning. For example, a friend of mine was required to volunteer at a nursing home and resented every visit, which likely did more harm than good.

Write a response of at least 100 words. State your position clearly, give reasons and an example, and refer to a classmate's point where relevant.