I wish I could feel for Darrin Burton (“Have We Got a Job for You?” 8/22). I’ve been through the job search a few times, and I know how difficult it can be. But it simply mystifies me how an obviously intelligent, educated person could put such blind faith into the MetroTech system without looking for a job elsewhere. He says he was insulted to see it referred to as an “entitlement program”; well, what else should we call a program where you’re expected to make a few brief visits, then sit back and wait for the high-paying jobs to roll in? I’ve never been “entitled” to such an offer, nor do I expect to be.

It’s a tough world, and all the job training and empowerment posters in the world won’t help people if they refuse to help themselves.

Falls Church, Va.