7 answers
Samantha
Student
Lakewood, California
1
Question
Asked
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How do I find a job post-grad in the political science sector ?
I just recently graduated from UCSB with a political science degree and I am very interested in international relations and community development, but I have no idea where to start, and it seems like the job market is scary. I would like to work for the government, but am considering going to law school as well.
I have acquired relatively decent experience throughout undergrad:
- I graduated with a 3.7 gpa from UCSB
- I worked on a community development research project as a research assistant
- I interned for a non profit organization in a position focused around community development and outreach
- held a position in my sorority for a year
Any tips/tricks/advice on how or where to look for a job?
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7 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 => Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
6618
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Samantha,
Finding a Job in the Political Science Sector Post-Graduation
Congratulations on graduating from UCSB with a political science degree! It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed by the job market, but with your strong academic record and experience, you’re well-positioned for success. Here’s a breakdown of how to navigate your job search in the political science sector, focusing on international relations and community development:
1. Define Your Career Goals
Identify your specific interests within international relations and community development. Do you want to work on policy analysis, advocacy, research, or program implementation?
Consider your desired work environment. Do you prefer working for a government agency, non-profit organization, or international organization?
Think about your long-term career aspirations. Do you see yourself working in a specific region or on a particular issue?
2. Leverage Your Existing Experience
Highlight your research assistant experience. This demonstrates your analytical skills and ability to conduct research, which are highly valued in the political science field.
Emphasize your non-profit internship. This showcases your commitment to community development and your experience in outreach and program implementation.
Showcase your leadership skills from your sorority position. This demonstrates your ability to work collaboratively, manage projects, and communicate effectively.
3. Network and Build Relationships
Attend career fairs and conferences. These events provide opportunities to meet potential employers and learn about job openings.
Connect with alumni from UCSB. Reach out to graduates who work in your desired fields and ask for advice and insights.
Join professional organizations. Organizations like the American Political Science Association (https://www.apsanet.org/) and the International Studies Association (https://www.isanet.org/) offer networking opportunities, job postings, and professional development resources.
4. Target Specific Job Boards and Websites
Government job boards: The USAJOBS website (https://www.usajobs.gov/) is a great resource for finding government positions at all levels.
Non-profit job boards: Idealist (https://www.idealist.org/) and NonProfitJobs (https://www.nonprofitjobs.com/) are popular platforms for finding non-profit job openings.
International organization job boards: The United Nations (https://careers.un.org/) and other international organizations have dedicated job boards for their vacancies.
Specialized job boards: Websites like Indeed (https://www.indeed.com/) and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/) often have specific job postings for political science and international relations roles.
5. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the specific position.
Use keywords from the job description. This will help your application stand out to employers using applicant tracking systems.
Showcase your passion for your chosen field. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for international relations and community development.
6. Prepare for Interviews
Practice answering common interview questions. Research typical questions for political science and international relations roles.
Prepare questions to ask the interviewer. This shows your genuine interest in the position and the organization.
Dress professionally and arrive on time. Make a positive first impression.
7. Consider Law School
A law degree can open doors to a wide range of careers in the political science sector. It can be particularly beneficial for those interested in policy analysis, advocacy, or government work.
Research law schools that specialize in public interest law or international law. These programs often offer opportunities for internships and clinics that can provide valuable experience.
8. Stay Persistent and Positive
The job search can be challenging, but don’t give up. Keep applying for positions, networking, and developing your skills.
Remember your strengths and accomplishments. You have a strong academic background and valuable experience that will make you a competitive candidate.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
American Political Science Association: A professional organization for political scientists, offering resources, networking opportunities, and job postings.
International Studies Association: A professional organization for scholars and practitioners in international relations, providing similar resources as the American Political Science Association.
Indeed: A popular job search website with a wide range of job postings, including those in the political science sector.
God Bless,
JC.
Finding a Job in the Political Science Sector Post-Graduation
Congratulations on graduating from UCSB with a political science degree! It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed by the job market, but with your strong academic record and experience, you’re well-positioned for success. Here’s a breakdown of how to navigate your job search in the political science sector, focusing on international relations and community development:
1. Define Your Career Goals
Identify your specific interests within international relations and community development. Do you want to work on policy analysis, advocacy, research, or program implementation?
Consider your desired work environment. Do you prefer working for a government agency, non-profit organization, or international organization?
Think about your long-term career aspirations. Do you see yourself working in a specific region or on a particular issue?
2. Leverage Your Existing Experience
Highlight your research assistant experience. This demonstrates your analytical skills and ability to conduct research, which are highly valued in the political science field.
Emphasize your non-profit internship. This showcases your commitment to community development and your experience in outreach and program implementation.
Showcase your leadership skills from your sorority position. This demonstrates your ability to work collaboratively, manage projects, and communicate effectively.
3. Network and Build Relationships
Attend career fairs and conferences. These events provide opportunities to meet potential employers and learn about job openings.
Connect with alumni from UCSB. Reach out to graduates who work in your desired fields and ask for advice and insights.
Join professional organizations. Organizations like the American Political Science Association (https://www.apsanet.org/) and the International Studies Association (https://www.isanet.org/) offer networking opportunities, job postings, and professional development resources.
4. Target Specific Job Boards and Websites
Government job boards: The USAJOBS website (https://www.usajobs.gov/) is a great resource for finding government positions at all levels.
Non-profit job boards: Idealist (https://www.idealist.org/) and NonProfitJobs (https://www.nonprofitjobs.com/) are popular platforms for finding non-profit job openings.
International organization job boards: The United Nations (https://careers.un.org/) and other international organizations have dedicated job boards for their vacancies.
Specialized job boards: Websites like Indeed (https://www.indeed.com/) and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/) often have specific job postings for political science and international relations roles.
5. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the specific position.
Use keywords from the job description. This will help your application stand out to employers using applicant tracking systems.
Showcase your passion for your chosen field. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for international relations and community development.
6. Prepare for Interviews
Practice answering common interview questions. Research typical questions for political science and international relations roles.
Prepare questions to ask the interviewer. This shows your genuine interest in the position and the organization.
Dress professionally and arrive on time. Make a positive first impression.
7. Consider Law School
A law degree can open doors to a wide range of careers in the political science sector. It can be particularly beneficial for those interested in policy analysis, advocacy, or government work.
Research law schools that specialize in public interest law or international law. These programs often offer opportunities for internships and clinics that can provide valuable experience.
8. Stay Persistent and Positive
The job search can be challenging, but don’t give up. Keep applying for positions, networking, and developing your skills.
Remember your strengths and accomplishments. You have a strong academic background and valuable experience that will make you a competitive candidate.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
American Political Science Association: A professional organization for political scientists, offering resources, networking opportunities, and job postings.
International Studies Association: A professional organization for scholars and practitioners in international relations, providing similar resources as the American Political Science Association.
Indeed: A popular job search website with a wide range of job postings, including those in the political science sector.
God Bless,
JC.
Jessica Baptiste
Policy Advisor
1
Answer
Miami, Florida
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
Nicely done!
Be creative and not afraid to think beyond traditional pathways. Both of your areas of interest are very broad, but it is ok to cast a wide-net at the beginning.
What are the news stories that grab your attention the most in those areas? Which divisions of those areas are most intriguing?
Try podcasts, journal articles, or even documentaries about them to broaden your understanding of what your work might be.
A law degree can be used on multiple levels, you may want to analyze why you are considering it.
And always give yourself permission to try again.
Try UCSB’s career services office
Find your local legislator, go in-person with your resume to their DISTRICT office, and ask if they have any internships available. If they say no, ask if there are any listservs they would recommend for opportunities.
Have informational interviews with individuals in the field you are considering. Work the alumni connections as a new grad.
Go to a Law School admissions office and ask to speak with student services representative. Ask them if they have any advice for those considering law school. Also ask if you can sit in on a lecture.
Check local government websites for any announcements for internships on different departments, or the career section for jobs. Sometimes you can filter by years of experience.
Be creative and not afraid to think beyond traditional pathways. Both of your areas of interest are very broad, but it is ok to cast a wide-net at the beginning.
What are the news stories that grab your attention the most in those areas? Which divisions of those areas are most intriguing?
Try podcasts, journal articles, or even documentaries about them to broaden your understanding of what your work might be.
A law degree can be used on multiple levels, you may want to analyze why you are considering it.
And always give yourself permission to try again.
Jessica recommends the following next steps:
Jennifer King
Talent Acquisition
30
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
As a seasoned recruiter, I'd encourage you to consider a few different paths. Firstly, check out your alma mater's Career Counseling and job board if they have one. It could be a goldmine of opportunities tailored for you. Secondly, dive into LinkedIn. Create an engaging profile, showcase your experience like internships, college projects, and so on. Expand your network by connecting with others, especially your university's alumni. LinkedIn is also a fantastic platform for job hunting, and you can set up job alerts right there. Lastly, pinpoint companies or non-profits you're passionate about and send them your resume along with a compelling cover letter expressing your keen interest in their mission. Each of these steps should set you on a promising path!
Alicia Miller
Business Development and Partnerships
5
Answers
Jersey City, New Jersey
Updated
Alicia’s Answer
The path you choose in this field truly hinges on your personal aspirations. I spent five years in international development before earning my MBA. Throughout this period, Devex.com was my go-to resource for recruitment into diverse roles. I strongly suggest creating a comprehensive profile there, incorporating your full CV rather than just a resume. This sector appreciates detailed CVs that chronicle all your past positions.
I would also encourage you to explore organizations like Chemonics, J.E. Austin Associates, ACDI/VOCA, Mercy Corps, FHI 360, Deloitte Emerging Markets Group, among others. You can discover an extensive list of such companies on the Devex website.
Remember, specificity is key in this field. So, pinpoint what you aim to achieve - your goal will guide your journey.
I would also encourage you to explore organizations like Chemonics, J.E. Austin Associates, ACDI/VOCA, Mercy Corps, FHI 360, Deloitte Emerging Markets Group, among others. You can discover an extensive list of such companies on the Devex website.
Remember, specificity is key in this field. So, pinpoint what you aim to achieve - your goal will guide your journey.
Jerry Tingstad
Professor/middle school teacher/48 years
95
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
I like Jennifer's answer.
The market in Political Science (whatever area) is on a downward path. These days it's tech and the financial sector.
I'm surprised that you went through a four-year degree in Political Science and didn't pick up "vibes" that this field is on a downward path. Especially in the current political climate.
I spent thirty-eight years teaching Political Science at the college level. then an additional ten years teaching Modern European History at a middle school (gasp!). Loved it all.
But times have changed.
I wish I could be more positive.
Again, look at Jennifer's answer. Couldn't say it better.
The market in Political Science (whatever area) is on a downward path. These days it's tech and the financial sector.
I'm surprised that you went through a four-year degree in Political Science and didn't pick up "vibes" that this field is on a downward path. Especially in the current political climate.
I spent thirty-eight years teaching Political Science at the college level. then an additional ten years teaching Modern European History at a middle school (gasp!). Loved it all.
But times have changed.
I wish I could be more positive.
Again, look at Jennifer's answer. Couldn't say it better.
Nancy Wall
Social Impact
14
Answers
Sunnyvale, California
Updated
Nancy’s Answer
Hello, This is an area that I started in at the beginning of my career. I started out by volunteering on political campaigns, then working as an intern in a local congressional office. I looked for every opportunity to volunteer. There are many jobs that can be persued with a political science degree. Good Luck!
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
620
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Samantha,
Congratulations on graduating from University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) with a political science degree! With your impressive qualifications and experience, you are well-prepared to embark on your career in the political science sector. Here are some tips to help you find a job in this field:
1. Celebrate your achievements: Take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments. Graduating with a 3.7 GPA and gaining valuable experience through research projects, internships, and leadership positions shows dedication and commitment.
2. Leverage your network: Reach out to professors, classmates, alumni, or professionals in the field for guidance and networking opportunities. Attend career fairs, join professional organizations related to political science or international relations, and engage with industry leaders on platforms like LinkedIn. Networking can often lead to valuable connections and potential job opportunities.
3. Explore government positions: Given your interest in working for the government, explore websites such as USAJobs.gov (for U.S.-based positions) or similar portals for government vacancies internationally. Additionally, consider entry-level programs like Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) that provide opportunities within federal agencies.
4. Research think tanks and research institutes: Look for organizations that focus on policy research or community development issues aligned with your interests. Many think tanks hire researchers or policy analysts with a background in political science.
5. Consider non-profit organizations: Apply for roles at non-profit organizations dedicated to community development projects domestically or internationally—your previous internship experience will be an asset here.
6. Build an online presence: Create a compelling LinkedIn profile that showcases your skills and experiences relevant to political science/international relations fields. Follow influential individuals as well as organizations within this sector; this can foster networking opportunities while keeping you updated on job openings.
7. Tailor application materials: Personalize each resume and cover letter according to the specific position you are applying for—highlight relevant experiences such as research work, internships focused on community development/outreach efforts—and use keywords related to political science/international relations that grab employers' attention.
8. Utilize university career services: Take advantage of alumni career services offered by UCSB—they may provide resources such as job postings specific to your field of interest along with resume assistance, interview preparation support, networking events tailored towards graduates from political science backgrounds.
9. Be open-minded but focused: While it's essential to have clear goals within the field of political science/international relations; be open-minded about different types of positions initially—they can serve as stepping stones towards more specialized roles later on after gaining sufficient experience.
10. Consider further education options:
If pursuing law school is still under consideration but uncertain about immediate employment prospects post-graduation—explore legal internship opportunities at firms specializing in international law/public interest law clinics affiliated with universities offering practical legal exposure alongside advanced education pursuits.
Note that finding a job takes time and persistence. Keep an open mind about different types of positions within the political science sector - including entry-level roles that can be stepping stones toward more specialized positions as you gain experience.
Best wishes.
Congratulations on graduating from University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) with a political science degree! With your impressive qualifications and experience, you are well-prepared to embark on your career in the political science sector. Here are some tips to help you find a job in this field:
1. Celebrate your achievements: Take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments. Graduating with a 3.7 GPA and gaining valuable experience through research projects, internships, and leadership positions shows dedication and commitment.
2. Leverage your network: Reach out to professors, classmates, alumni, or professionals in the field for guidance and networking opportunities. Attend career fairs, join professional organizations related to political science or international relations, and engage with industry leaders on platforms like LinkedIn. Networking can often lead to valuable connections and potential job opportunities.
3. Explore government positions: Given your interest in working for the government, explore websites such as USAJobs.gov (for U.S.-based positions) or similar portals for government vacancies internationally. Additionally, consider entry-level programs like Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) that provide opportunities within federal agencies.
4. Research think tanks and research institutes: Look for organizations that focus on policy research or community development issues aligned with your interests. Many think tanks hire researchers or policy analysts with a background in political science.
5. Consider non-profit organizations: Apply for roles at non-profit organizations dedicated to community development projects domestically or internationally—your previous internship experience will be an asset here.
6. Build an online presence: Create a compelling LinkedIn profile that showcases your skills and experiences relevant to political science/international relations fields. Follow influential individuals as well as organizations within this sector; this can foster networking opportunities while keeping you updated on job openings.
7. Tailor application materials: Personalize each resume and cover letter according to the specific position you are applying for—highlight relevant experiences such as research work, internships focused on community development/outreach efforts—and use keywords related to political science/international relations that grab employers' attention.
8. Utilize university career services: Take advantage of alumni career services offered by UCSB—they may provide resources such as job postings specific to your field of interest along with resume assistance, interview preparation support, networking events tailored towards graduates from political science backgrounds.
9. Be open-minded but focused: While it's essential to have clear goals within the field of political science/international relations; be open-minded about different types of positions initially—they can serve as stepping stones towards more specialized roles later on after gaining sufficient experience.
10. Consider further education options:
If pursuing law school is still under consideration but uncertain about immediate employment prospects post-graduation—explore legal internship opportunities at firms specializing in international law/public interest law clinics affiliated with universities offering practical legal exposure alongside advanced education pursuits.
Note that finding a job takes time and persistence. Keep an open mind about different types of positions within the political science sector - including entry-level roles that can be stepping stones toward more specialized positions as you gain experience.
Best wishes.