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How to get a political science-related job after college

1. Get diverse experiences through internships or off campus programs.  We recommend that you take at least one internship or off campus experience during your time at Malone.  Students who go off campus usually return with a clearer sense of direction—sometimes confirming, sometimes changing a direction.  These experiences also help you to stand out from other candidates and make contacts. 

2. Make and cultivate contacts.  Off campus experiences often build relationships that can help you “network” in your job search; indeed, we know of interns who have been offered jobs by their supervisors.  One student landed a job with the Stark County Republican Party after working as an intern in the Taft for Governor re-election campaign of 2002. Two former Malone students who attended the China Studies Program in successive semesters were later invited to become assistant directors of the program.  A December 2001 graduate of Malone landed a job as an aide to a member of the U.S. House of Representatives through her internship contacts.  Another student from the China Studies Program returned to teach English as a Second Language in China (on salary).

3.  Hook into existing social networks. Use Malone alumni contacts or other networks.  Most Malone graduates would be delighted to help you find people who can hire you.  We professors also know of older alumni who have experience in politics and international affairs, including a Washington-based consultant who was once a Congressional staffer and a former State Department diplomat.  In addition, the Malone Alumni Office maintains databases of graduates.

4. Use other resources.  Malone’s Office of Career Services in the Centennial Center has a variety of resources and very helpful people.  Their full-time job is to help Malone graduates with resumes, interview preparation, job search strategies, and career counseling.  Take advantage of them!

5. Take action yourself.  Get involved in politics or government.  Ultimately, it is up to you to find a meaningful vocation.  If you're not already working toward that, you should!  For example, you might consider volunteering for a local, state, or federal candidate’s campaign.  Much of politics is about loyalty in maintaining relationships.  If you make your way up through the Democratic or Republican ranks as a loyal worker and friend, you can eventually make an impact yourself.