Which government jobs will help with admissions to quality Political Science related grad programs?

[raptorsxyz]

Hi,

A buddy told me that spending a couple or more years in the government will help me get into Poli Sci grad programs. I think this sounds like a good path for me since I am really interested in studying more about Political Science, preferably at a top school, but my GPA is mediocre. I'm not trying to do this merely for the credential - I really want to continue with my academic studies for the sake of learning more about a particular sub-field I'm interested in. Are there any careers or areas of government I should focus on? I go to a higher ranked D.C. area school so I should have at least some access networking in the region for most opportunities.

[Anonymous]

Have you done any hill or agency internships?

I would start with a job on the hill, which would give you a path to an agency with a mission you find interesting. Lots of government jobs, but if you aren’t on the policy side I am not sure how that will help you with a Poli sci grad program. An NGO might give you relevant experience as well

[Anonymous]

It totally deepened on the field and whether you are talking about a masters or a PhD program. I’d talk to your professors and see what they think.

[Anonymous]

I don’t know if it will really benefit you but it couldn’t hurt. I’d start looking at USA jobs to see what jobs are out there you could get. It’s hard to get in these days.