The Impact of Youth Service on Future Outcomes: Evidence from Teach for America

62 Pages Posted: 21 Sep 2011 Last revised: 21 Jul 2023

See all articles by Will Dobbie

Will Dobbie

Harvard University - Harvard Kennedy School (HKS)

Roland G. Fryer

Harvard University - Department of Economics; National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER); American Bar Foundation; University of Chicago

Date Written: September 2011

Abstract

Nearly one million American youth have participated in service programs such as Peace Corps and Teach For America. This paper provides the first causal estimate of the impact of service programs on those who serve, using data from a web-based survey of former Teach For America applicants. We estimate the effect of voluntary youth service using a sharp discontinuity in the Teach For America application process. Participating in Teach For America increases racial tolerance, makes individuals more optimistic about the life chances of poor children, and makes them more likely to work in education. We argue that these facts are broadly consistent with the "Contact Hypothesis," which states that, under appropriate conditions, interpersonal contact can reduce prejudice.

Suggested Citation

Dobbie, Will and Fryer, Roland G., The Impact of Youth Service on Future Outcomes: Evidence from Teach for America (September 2011). NBER Working Paper No. w17402, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1931173

Will Dobbie (Contact Author)

Harvard University - Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) ( email )

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Roland G. Fryer

Harvard University - Department of Economics ( email )

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National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER)

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American Bar Foundation

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University of Chicago ( email )

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