The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi
Want to tackle complex problems? Driven by making a difference in the world?
People drawn to the fields of public service and government often value helping people and solving social problems. Use this resource to explore these interests and gain information about industries like Nonprofits & NGOs, Government (Federal, State, Local), Global Development, International Affairs, Diplomacy, Intelligence and Security, Politics, Policy, Lobbying, Public Health, and more!
Schedule a Public Service & Government Appointment*
*Select Industry Appointments then Public Service & Government
Drop-in Advising Hours:
Wednesdays, 1:30 - 4:30 pm
Clemons Library (2nd floor)*
*Drop-ins only occur when classes are in session
Professions
Related Student Organizations
Public Service and Government Job Search Timeline
Generally, large organizations or those with more competitive opportunities will hire earlier in the academic year. Positions that require a security clearance will recruit in the fall semester for full-time hires. Most nonprofit and public sector organizations hire internship and full-time opportunities based on immediate need. Some positions may become available in late spring/early summer, so you should continue to look for opportunities throughout the academic year and beyond. See the chart below for some examples of recruiting timelines and target industries. Note that these are general guidelines. While it's important to start early and be aware of deadlines, your job search will and should follow its own path.
8 – 10 months in advance (August - November)
- Some Bridge Year Programs (e.g. Fulbright)
- Some International Organizations
- Intelligence and Security
- Other Federal Government Positions that require a Security Clearance (e.g. State Department Internship)
4 – 6 months in advance (December-July)
- Nonprofit Organizations
- Research Institutes/Think Tanks
- Federal, State and Local Governments
- Capitol Hill
- Bridge Year Programs, especially those with rolling or multiple deadlines
Have You Heard About...
Questions about what a "federal resume" is and how to write one? Not sure how to search for federal hiring opportunities?
Alumni Spotlight
Executive Director, The African American Teaching Fellows Program
Tamara is the Executive Director of The African American Teaching Fellows Program, a Charlottesville-based nonprofit organization focused on increasing the number of teachers of color in Charlottesville and Albemarle County schools.
Major: Spanish (Bachelor), Teaching (Masters)
Public Service & Government News
2024 Election: On-Grounds Events, Volunteering, and More!
As we are in the midst of another important election season, it’s essential to recognize the impact that civic participation has on shaping the future of our nation. Every vote cast and every volunteer hour contributes to the decisions that affect communities across the United States. Whether you're just starting to explore the politics sector or are working towards a career in politics, getting involved can take many forms as a college student.