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What is the path to working in diplomacy/international affairs like?
I’m now a college freshman majoring in global studies, which I’m starting to realize is a bit different from the standard international relations degree (my school doesn’t offer this).
I’m still interested working in world affairs (dream would be becoming a diplomat or working in an embassy), but I was wondering how people have gotten there. Would it be worth it to transfer to a school with the IR degree, should I wait until graduate school, is grad school even necessary, and what type of internships would be beneficial? Any suggestions would help!
#international relations #diplomat #college #graduate-school
I realized this is a really loaded question! Thank you to anyone that answers this :)
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6 answers
Updated
Nikki’s Answer
Hi Erika,
I am a current graduating college senior entering the international affairs field. My school also does not offer an international affairs degree, only a global studies degree, but the difference is not incredibly important in qualifying you for certain jobs. What is important is your specific coursework, your internships, and your areas of interest within the broader field of international affairs. For example, I chose electives that focused on negotiation, cross-cultural communication, and Middle Eastern studies, because those are my career fields of interest.
In addition, a focus on economics and quantitative coursework is something that international affairs degrees seem to value more, so I would recommend including those types of courses into your schedule if they aren't already required. Language study is also incredibly important to the field of international affairs. It's not a disqualifier if you don't have proficiency in a second language by the time you graduate, but it is highly recommended.
With regard to graduate school, there is no "right" answer. There are plenty of positions within international affairs, including the foreign service, that do not require a graduate degree. However, there are benefits to obtaining one, including more time to complete internships, opportunities to conduct research, and the ability to gain a more targeted education in your specific area of interest. For example, you may find that within the field of international affairs, you are most interested in security. You could then apply for a Master's program in international affairs and security to gain a more robust academic background in that specific field.
I also encourage you to research the GS Pay Scale, which governs government pay grades, because a graduate degree can qualify you to apply for positions that are on a higher pay scale. For example, a position could require 5 years of work experience OR a graduate degree, and with most programs being 2-years or less, that will mean spending a lot less time at entry-level positions.
For internships, there are so many options for internships in international affairs, it can be overwhelming! I recommend sites such as Handshake, GlobalJobs, and DevEx. My best advice would be to narrow down your specific interest in the field, such as security, public diplomacy, international economics, or something else. Then, decide whether you'd like experience in the public, private, or nonprofit arena. The U.S. Department of State offers internships both in D.C. and abroad that offer great opportunities for networking and mentorship. I did an internship at State in D.C. and absolutely loved it. Be aware that most positions will likely be unpaid, so be sure to be open to opportunities in your area or apply for scholarships to help fund relocation expenses. Looking for the closest WorldAffairsCouncils, Global Ties chapters, Sister Cities chapters, and Global Business organizations to you is a good start. There are also countless opportunities in lobbying organizations, nonprofits, think tanks, and more.
I also highly recommend completing an internship abroad or at least studying abroad. Research opportunities at your university, in addition to ones facilitated through outside organizations such as CIEE or USAC. Bonus if you can study in a region of your focus, or practice a language.
However, at the end of the day, the path to becoming a diplomat is dictated by a formal testing process that can't be replaced with just a resume and cover letter. You will have to pull from knowledge of world history, government, economics, etc, and reflect on your own experiences. My best advice is to take advantage of as many academic, professional, and personal experiences as possible to build up your understanding of the field of international affairs, and your specific strengths and goals within it.
I hope that helps!
I am a current graduating college senior entering the international affairs field. My school also does not offer an international affairs degree, only a global studies degree, but the difference is not incredibly important in qualifying you for certain jobs. What is important is your specific coursework, your internships, and your areas of interest within the broader field of international affairs. For example, I chose electives that focused on negotiation, cross-cultural communication, and Middle Eastern studies, because those are my career fields of interest.
In addition, a focus on economics and quantitative coursework is something that international affairs degrees seem to value more, so I would recommend including those types of courses into your schedule if they aren't already required. Language study is also incredibly important to the field of international affairs. It's not a disqualifier if you don't have proficiency in a second language by the time you graduate, but it is highly recommended.
With regard to graduate school, there is no "right" answer. There are plenty of positions within international affairs, including the foreign service, that do not require a graduate degree. However, there are benefits to obtaining one, including more time to complete internships, opportunities to conduct research, and the ability to gain a more targeted education in your specific area of interest. For example, you may find that within the field of international affairs, you are most interested in security. You could then apply for a Master's program in international affairs and security to gain a more robust academic background in that specific field.
I also encourage you to research the GS Pay Scale, which governs government pay grades, because a graduate degree can qualify you to apply for positions that are on a higher pay scale. For example, a position could require 5 years of work experience OR a graduate degree, and with most programs being 2-years or less, that will mean spending a lot less time at entry-level positions.
For internships, there are so many options for internships in international affairs, it can be overwhelming! I recommend sites such as Handshake, GlobalJobs, and DevEx. My best advice would be to narrow down your specific interest in the field, such as security, public diplomacy, international economics, or something else. Then, decide whether you'd like experience in the public, private, or nonprofit arena. The U.S. Department of State offers internships both in D.C. and abroad that offer great opportunities for networking and mentorship. I did an internship at State in D.C. and absolutely loved it. Be aware that most positions will likely be unpaid, so be sure to be open to opportunities in your area or apply for scholarships to help fund relocation expenses. Looking for the closest WorldAffairsCouncils, Global Ties chapters, Sister Cities chapters, and Global Business organizations to you is a good start. There are also countless opportunities in lobbying organizations, nonprofits, think tanks, and more.
I also highly recommend completing an internship abroad or at least studying abroad. Research opportunities at your university, in addition to ones facilitated through outside organizations such as CIEE or USAC. Bonus if you can study in a region of your focus, or practice a language.
However, at the end of the day, the path to becoming a diplomat is dictated by a formal testing process that can't be replaced with just a resume and cover letter. You will have to pull from knowledge of world history, government, economics, etc, and reflect on your own experiences. My best advice is to take advantage of as many academic, professional, and personal experiences as possible to build up your understanding of the field of international affairs, and your specific strengths and goals within it.
I hope that helps!
Thank you so much! Your answer helped me greatly :)
If you don't mind me asking what did your internship at Washington D.C. consist of?
Erika
Hi Erika,
I interned in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the Department of State, which handles international exchange programs. My specific interests are in international education and exchange and public diplomacy, so this bureau was a perfect fit. Most internships at State are going to be heavily research-based, but you might also be doing some event planning, marketing/communications work, and other similar tasks. The best part of the internship in my eyes was the connections I made, and the events I was able to attend. You get to work with a bunch of amazing foreign service/civil service officers, and get a better understanding of how U.S. foreign policy works!
Nikki H.
Updated
Saul’s Answer
Hi Erika,
While I am not an expert in this area/field, I can provide some general advice.
I would advice you to search for/join an organization in your campus that would fit this area of interest. I would also recommend you reach out to both your academic adviser and perhaps your career coach. They can sometimes be the same person depending on the university. They both will advice you to what you need to do to get there.
Additionally, I would highly recommend you start growing your network of professionals in this area of interest. Look into creating a LinkedIn profile and connect with people that have similar titles. Also search meetup and FB groups to see what professionals are meeting up near you.
Lastly, regardless of what path you need to get there, do it.
Good luck on your search!
While I am not an expert in this area/field, I can provide some general advice.
I would advice you to search for/join an organization in your campus that would fit this area of interest. I would also recommend you reach out to both your academic adviser and perhaps your career coach. They can sometimes be the same person depending on the university. They both will advice you to what you need to do to get there.
Additionally, I would highly recommend you start growing your network of professionals in this area of interest. Look into creating a LinkedIn profile and connect with people that have similar titles. Also search meetup and FB groups to see what professionals are meeting up near you.
Lastly, regardless of what path you need to get there, do it.
Good luck on your search!
Thank you for taking the time to respond! Creating a network of professionals would definitely be smart for me to do
Erika
Updated
Tara’s Answer
Hi, Erika. For diplomatic/foreign service jobs, as discussed in other answers there are certainly lower-level positions you can get in foreign service. Higher-level positions will often (though not always) require an MA. Standard requirements for admission to good master's programs in International Relations are two years of working in a foreign country and fluency in a foreign language. There are programs that don't require those things, but if you want to be considered for a top-tier program, that's pretty par for the course.
Now if you want to talk about what you should study in undergrad, my personal opinion is don't worry at all about getting your BA in IR. I went to the Fletcher School for my IR degree, and people there studied every subject under the sun in undergrad. They absolutely strongly prefer people who are as well-rounded as possible from all backgrounds. We also had a joke at Fletcher about the "International Business" degree they offer there. People would always ask how International Business was different from a regular MBA, and students would always shrug and say, "It's at Fletcher."
My point is that sometimes the name of the degree is just branding, and the knowledge is the part that really matters. That's especially true with undergraduate liberal arts degrees. So study political science, history, area studies, economics, geography -- any and all of those things will teach you important, relevant material. So will STEM subjects and the arts. Focus on being a well-rounded person and take a wide enough variety of classes that you get a sense of what you're good at and what you like. The one thing I do absolutely recommend is to take advantage of college to study at least one language. You'll rarely have another chance in life with such easy access to language courses, and language skills are invaluable.
As for internships -- I'd recommend talking to professors. If there's a class you really enjoy, go to your professor's office hours. It's not uncommon for opportunities to come to students through their professors, so it helps if they know who you are and that you're interested. At the very least, they will most likely know about good internships, any available departmental funding for students working unpaid internships, or have advice on other courses you should take if you're interested in their field.
Now if you want to talk about what you should study in undergrad, my personal opinion is don't worry at all about getting your BA in IR. I went to the Fletcher School for my IR degree, and people there studied every subject under the sun in undergrad. They absolutely strongly prefer people who are as well-rounded as possible from all backgrounds. We also had a joke at Fletcher about the "International Business" degree they offer there. People would always ask how International Business was different from a regular MBA, and students would always shrug and say, "It's at Fletcher."
My point is that sometimes the name of the degree is just branding, and the knowledge is the part that really matters. That's especially true with undergraduate liberal arts degrees. So study political science, history, area studies, economics, geography -- any and all of those things will teach you important, relevant material. So will STEM subjects and the arts. Focus on being a well-rounded person and take a wide enough variety of classes that you get a sense of what you're good at and what you like. The one thing I do absolutely recommend is to take advantage of college to study at least one language. You'll rarely have another chance in life with such easy access to language courses, and language skills are invaluable.
As for internships -- I'd recommend talking to professors. If there's a class you really enjoy, go to your professor's office hours. It's not uncommon for opportunities to come to students through their professors, so it helps if they know who you are and that you're interested. At the very least, they will most likely know about good internships, any available departmental funding for students working unpaid internships, or have advice on other courses you should take if you're interested in their field.
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Hi Erika,
I'd recommend looking at the entry level requirements that are listed on the US Dept of State site:
https://careers.state.gov/work/civil-service/job-categories/
You can also reach out to your Diplomat in Residence (DIR)
https://careers.state.gov/connect/dir/southern-california/
Contact your DIR office and explain what you are doing (looking for information)- they would be one of the best sources.
Also, since you are a freshman, you have time in front of you... so reach out to the Dept of State and the DIR office and inquire about available internships. The best way to learn about a field and/or career is from the inside!
Even in an entry level position like an internship, you can learn about the vast potential career paths and what it takes to get into them, just by meeting, talking, and working with the people in that environment.
Hope this helps a little.
Best of luck!
-rbt
I'd recommend looking at the entry level requirements that are listed on the US Dept of State site:
https://careers.state.gov/work/civil-service/job-categories/
You can also reach out to your Diplomat in Residence (DIR)
https://careers.state.gov/connect/dir/southern-california/
Contact your DIR office and explain what you are doing (looking for information)- they would be one of the best sources.
Also, since you are a freshman, you have time in front of you... so reach out to the Dept of State and the DIR office and inquire about available internships. The best way to learn about a field and/or career is from the inside!
Even in an entry level position like an internship, you can learn about the vast potential career paths and what it takes to get into them, just by meeting, talking, and working with the people in that environment.
Hope this helps a little.
Best of luck!
-rbt
Thanks for responding! I will definitely check out those websites
Erika
Updated
Kim’s Answer
I recommend you spend some time reviewing the information provided on the State Department's website. The Foreign Service Officers Test (FSOT) is a comprehensive exam. After having worked 35 years in various endeavors, I still scored poorly on the practice test (except for the English/Grammar part!) It has 3 parts: Job Knowledge (which covered everything from civil conflicts in underdeveloped nations, to making speeches, economics, and US discrimination laws), English, and Situational questions: Pick the best and worst solutions to the posed situation. I did horrible on that! The test is written at a college level, incorporating "big" words and advanced writing styles.If you are going to take it, I recommend you study first, as you have to give your e-mail address: you cannot take it anonymously!
I took this test eons ago, and it was very different, but, the job knowledge section is similar. Back then, we were expected to know things about culture, the arts, economics, science, world history, political science, etc. Back then, the English was more difficult, and I failed it!
https://careers.state.gov/work/foreign-service/officer/test-process/
I took this test eons ago, and it was very different, but, the job knowledge section is similar. Back then, we were expected to know things about culture, the arts, economics, science, world history, political science, etc. Back then, the English was more difficult, and I failed it!
https://careers.state.gov/work/foreign-service/officer/test-process/
Thank you for answering my questions! And wow, I had no idea about this big test, but I'm glad I do now
Erika
Updated
Katie Do’s Answer
Wonderful you're interested in a career in international relations and global studies. A few professionals have recommended the U.S. State Department, which is a good idea if you are really keen on becoming a U.S. diplomat. Also highly suggest you can apply for internships through the State Department as well. I was able to do one in Taiwan as a junior in university, another friend did her internship at the U.S. Embassy in Venezulea. Both epic times and great for the resume.
My major was International Relations with a Master's Degree in International Economics. Luckily I was able to put my degrees to work at UNICEF, the UN agency advocating for children. The UN, has many specialized organization under the main UN name, is another good career path to consider. Here is a list of the main agencies: https://www.un.org/en/sections/about-un/funds-programmes-specialized-agencies-and-others/index.html There are UN internships, you can look for them under each agency.
Finally, your global studies (International Relations degree) can also be put to use at global multi-national corporations. Currently, I work as a Field Marketing Manager at Dell Technologies. Dell has offices in almost 100 countries, so I can use my background to bring value to a large global company.
My favorite piece of advice -- STUDY ABROAD! Later when the current health situation is better, studying abroad is a must. Both professionally and to grow as a young person to see the world. My international relations degree has served me well, and think it will be for you too! Wishing you best of luck!
Learn more about different United Nations agencies: main agencies: https://www.un.org/en/sections/about-un/funds-programmes-specialized-agencies-and-others/index.html
Consider applying for internships through the U.S. State Department website.
Consider working for a global multinational company (Such as Dell Technologies) or other global companies
Plan to Study Abroad!
My major was International Relations with a Master's Degree in International Economics. Luckily I was able to put my degrees to work at UNICEF, the UN agency advocating for children. The UN, has many specialized organization under the main UN name, is another good career path to consider. Here is a list of the main agencies: https://www.un.org/en/sections/about-un/funds-programmes-specialized-agencies-and-others/index.html There are UN internships, you can look for them under each agency.
Finally, your global studies (International Relations degree) can also be put to use at global multi-national corporations. Currently, I work as a Field Marketing Manager at Dell Technologies. Dell has offices in almost 100 countries, so I can use my background to bring value to a large global company.
My favorite piece of advice -- STUDY ABROAD! Later when the current health situation is better, studying abroad is a must. Both professionally and to grow as a young person to see the world. My international relations degree has served me well, and think it will be for you too! Wishing you best of luck!
Katie Do recommends the following next steps: