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What is a way to try out public service?
How do I know if I like working for people in the community? What education level do I need? What skills should I develop?
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2 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
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Paul’s Answer
Hi Ching:
I would look for possible internships (both paid and unpaid), with public sector organizations. The government and various other offices normally advertise opportunities, or you can go to a state job center, or to a college employment office.
This might be a good way to determine if the area of public service is for you.
Education levels can vary. I went up to a masters degree because I was interested in an administrative career. Most individuals that I encountered, had at least a bachelors degree.
As far as skills. It really depends on the area you wish to pursue. People in the business office were good with numbers. Human Resource individuals were excellent with, organization, socializing and recruiting. I would have to say many of the skills that I utilized involved writing and communications skills. You must be proficient in these areas to be successful.
To be successful, you must really love what you are doing. Matter of fact I loved what I was doing so much in my public sector job, that if they did not pay me to do it, I would still have done it anyway. So, a never ending optimistic attitude is something that I recommend.
Check for public sector internships at local college job centers and government offices
Determine what area of pubic service you wish to work in (education, policy, administration etc..)
Assess your strengths and match them with the area of the public sector that interests you the most
I would look for possible internships (both paid and unpaid), with public sector organizations. The government and various other offices normally advertise opportunities, or you can go to a state job center, or to a college employment office.
This might be a good way to determine if the area of public service is for you.
Education levels can vary. I went up to a masters degree because I was interested in an administrative career. Most individuals that I encountered, had at least a bachelors degree.
As far as skills. It really depends on the area you wish to pursue. People in the business office were good with numbers. Human Resource individuals were excellent with, organization, socializing and recruiting. I would have to say many of the skills that I utilized involved writing and communications skills. You must be proficient in these areas to be successful.
To be successful, you must really love what you are doing. Matter of fact I loved what I was doing so much in my public sector job, that if they did not pay me to do it, I would still have done it anyway. So, a never ending optimistic attitude is something that I recommend.
Paul recommends the following next steps:
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Sikawayi’s Answer
Hello Ching, thank you for your question. First of all, let me commend you for your desire to work within your own community that is very rear for young people. Second, you don't need any level of education to start helping out in your local community center if you do decide to work in the field of public services you will need to go on to college, the higher you go in school the better job opportunities you will have. Best of luck