Hi gibby,
I see your posts everywhere in Harvard University’s forum! Therefore, it is special to receive a reply from you. My question for you is why would Ivies send their students to travel around the world to help the homeless, gain experience, etc.? Correct me if I am wrong, but I think you do have to pay for them unless they are on sponsored funds. In case you are wondering, I plan on writing my essay entirely about how my passion guided and inspired me over the years. I don’t believe the intended purpose of community service should be used to “look good” at those admin officers. It is to help others and gain experience that will benefit you for the rest of your life. Thank you.