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What is it like working in public policy?

I am getting a degree in social work, but my interest lies in the macro side of the profession. I was looking at getting a degree in public policy after I finish undergrad, but I'm not sure what exact jobs there are in public policy. What skills are taught? Would I work for a company or for a city? If you have any insight, please share!

#public-policy #policy #social-work #political-science #graduate-school #mpp

graduate-school social-work political-science policy public-policy mpp
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Emily’s Answer

Hello Deana,

I hope you're still considering a rewarding career in public policy. Great entry level jobs in public policy would be as a state level legislative staff member. Often, these offices provide internships as well. This is a good place to start to learn about policy, and oftentimes, work on passing legislation for your office. Additionally, most state level associations, large businesses (Nike/ Intel), and medical groups have a government affairs team. In these positions, you focus on policy that will impact your particular employer. For example, a national non-profit focuses on preventing teacher misconduct in K-12 education. They have example policy and work with all 50 states to try to pass legislation that keep students safe . You could work on creating policy, implementing it within a government agency, or even work as a lobbyist to advocate in favor or opposition to policy. City staff work on local policy- that is another great place to start.

Emily recommends the following next steps:

Ask for informational interview with your city manager. Ask them what the staff role is on local policy- how this is developed, what type of public outreach there is.
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Grace’s Answer

There are so many different opportunities in public policy work! In addition to working for a government (local, state, federal...), there are many in-house corporate opportunities to do policy work. A lot of technology companies especially have large public policy and government relations departments, where you represent the company's policy interests. Also, many of these opportunities do not require a Master in Public Policy - you could alternatively get an MBA or a law degree or a science degree to work in STEM or other technology work. You do not even necessarily need a graduate degree - you can work in internships in the policy space. At this point in your career, I recommend following your interests! Whichever degree aligns with your interests and you think will open future opportunities for you, go with that. Policy is also a very diverse space, so there are many opportunities to represent underrepresented groups, so it is a wonderful area to combine a solid career path with good, beneficial work. Good luck!
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Dongseuk’s Answer

Hi Deana,

Great to e-meet you and happy to hear you are interested pursuing your career in public policy area. I have an experience in working in government, association and now private sector. The biggest role of public policy is delivering company's voice to the relevant stakeholders. It takes experience and learning of both writing and strategic thinking in delivering voice to the others. As a first step, I would like to suggest you to try some of internship program in either government, association and private sector for you to further consider your profession.

Thank you,

Dongseuk
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