Many people are age believe that they have more problems then reality entails. For example, being stressed out about a tests isn't really a "problem". Although it may seem like a big deal to a college student, in the whole scheme of things, it's no big deal. Civic action puts things into perspective as well as allows us to really appreciate the important things in life. It allows us to be able to distinguish between a need and a want and be fortunate for what we have. Yes, we all take things for granted sometimes and that's okay; for it is human nature. By carrying out civic action and being a humane citizen, we can really distinguish our "problems" from the real PROBLEMS in the world.
Civic actions requires one to step out of his or her comfort zone and allow the uncomfortable to become the comfortable. Civic action requires one to go out of his or her way for someone or a population who really needs it. It is something that is important to humanity as well as for the development of the self. Civic action is a great way to help out the world a little piece at a time.
Some things that I think that would help this course be improved would be to create a service-learning aspect to it. Nothing gains experience like going out in the real world. Maybe have 2 classes and make one an optional service-learning course. Also, I think that we should have a semester long project about something that relates to civic duty and social justice, This would definitely help the course a lot :)
Attached is a link for a YouTube video on Medical-Veterinary Civil Action Program in Africa .. check it out :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hknYckzBpo