A career in public service is a way for you to use your skills and passions to make an impact in society. You can help people in need, promote equality and justice, work on important research projects, and more. There are many jobs in this field, including positions in government departments and agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other public-oriented businesses.
Most people who choose careers in public service want to serve others, and they hold themselves and their colleagues to a high standard of conduct. They have a deep sense of ethics and the capacity to work through change while remaining flexible and responsive. These are the individuals who have the most positive impact on our communities and the world.
To get started, identify the mission you are most passionate about. You might like to improve the lives of children, solve a pressing social issue, or work on international policy. Once you know your focus, explore what roles are available within that mission at local, state, or federal levels.
You can also learn more about the career path through public service by reaching out to a mentor or contact at your college, community resource center, workforce development agency (like Career OneStop), or the library. Many of these resources have experts who can speak with you about job requirements, salaries, and benefits, as well as other questions that you may have. Almost all positions in the federal government, for example, offer an Employee Assistance Program, which is staffed by professional counselors and free to employees.