My own experience has taught me how much a single person can help. While attending Rice University, I joined a tutoring program for disadvantaged kids in Houston. There I first felt the passion that comes with realizing I could make a difference. I was inspired when the young men I tutored excelled. I could see their confidence grow as it dawned on them that with work, they could build good lives despite the tough cards they’d been dealt. After college I taught high school for a year in an impoverished area of Miami. It was more like the teacher learning lessons from the students. I started out with the idea that I could save the world. I left accepting my victories one student at a time–and learned a universal lesson: it is in giving of ourselves that we receive the most.
Those already engaged in public service need to spread the word about the rewards of helping others. The most common misconcption about getting involved is that you can’t really make a difference. Young adults often tell me they don’t think their vote counts for much. I usually tell them, “If you don’t vote, who will?” It’s pretty simple to explain. If you don’t take the time to vote, you forfeit your right to complain about politicians and bad government.
I know we are not an apathetic generation. We just need the inspiration to help shape what our country’s future will look like. Earlier this year I traveled to 58 high schools and 22 colleges and universities campaigning for my uncle during the Republican primaries. I encountered a huge appetite among students to get involved. Their eyes lit up when I told them about the incredible experiences of public life. From meeting celebrities to traveling around the country, from joining relief missions abroad to helping the less fortunate at home, public life sparks the interest of even the most cynical people.
Even so, young people often don’t know how to put their natural enthusiasm to work. It isn’t hard. Getting involved doesn’t mean you have to quit everything and work on a campaign–though you can do that, too. Find a cause, an issue, a candidate you feel passionately about and figure out a way to help. Volunteer at a Boys & Girls Club. Walk your precinct for a local politician. Write a letter to your senator. Too much for you? At least do this: help shed the apathetic label our generation carries by showing up at the polls on Election Day.
