Career Options

Capitol Hill /Congressional Committees

This path is ideal for students with research and policy interest. It involves issue-based and in-depth policy work, commonly related to financial / budget or tax policy. Financial savvy is a success factor to aid budget creation. Additionally, strong written and interpersonal communication skills along with a mission-oriented attitude are vital. Election results can cause shifts in personnel, so employment can be contingent on these factors. Experience on a congressional committee can provide strong preparation for students seeking careers in lobbying.

Federal Agency Public Servant

Students may choose to work directly within a federal agency or department where the functional roles can vary, ranging among finance and budget, procurement, operations, information technology and cyber security, program management, research, human resources, other areas. “Working for the government provides you the opportunity to contribute to projects that have an impact on a national scale. Careers with a federal agency are characterized by meaningful, challenging work, competitive salary, flexible work schedules, extensive benefits, job security, and mobility.”

Federal United States Government (Public Sector) Consulting

Large consulting firms generally have consulting offerings for the United States federal government, and some firms are dedicated exclusively to federal consulting. It generally entails many other forms of consulting (financial management, supply chain, IT) when the client is the federal government. While federal consultants are technically employees of a private company and not the U.S. federal government, many work on-site at government agencies and are in many ways integrated into a federal agency environment. Projects commonly relate to defense, healthcare, procurement, and other logistics related to military and government operations.

Firms that offer federal consulting include Accenture, Alvarez & Marsal, Booz Allen Hamilton, CSC, Deloitte, IBM, BDO, and Guidehouse.

State and Local Government Administration

Similar to the federal agency track, students may choose to work directly within a state or local government entity where the functional roles can vary, ranging among finance and budget, procurement, operations, information technology and cyber security, program management, research, human resources, other areas. State and local government administration also provide strong preparation for individuals interested in elected official positions. Roles in state and local government often entail urban planning and economic development strategies, so financial planning skills and interest in real estate development can be valuable competencies.

Government Relations

Students interested in careers in politics or government should also take advantage of the many lobbying organizations located in the greater Washington, DC area. Working for lobbying or advocacy organizations can be a fantastic way to understand policymaking, as well as create the networks to pursue a political career.