International Development: Job Dilemma

[Anonymous]

I am a young professional working at an entry level admin and logistics based job for an international development project. I applied internally and was asked to interview for a job that is a step up and has a significant pay raise but it is for a Domestic Initiative. Would working for a domestic initiative kill my dreams of being an international development professional?

Please advise!

[Anonymous]

No, it won't. I know my organization is always looking for good people, and having a domestic work history isn't disqualifying, as long as it is relevant. That said, development has gotten very competative over the past decade, and you will need a masters degree if you don't already have one. I would advise working full time in an organization you like while doing your masters part time so you don't go into debt. Working at a development related center or department in a local university would get you tuition remission and experience at the same time. The other great entry point for development is Peace Corps. You learn so much, and I know if I hire a former PCV I will get someone who can handle the travel and cross cultural issues I am going to throw at them.

[Anonymous]

No it won't hurt as long as it's a related field. Also, FYI, Chemonics is hiring a ton of int'l health and project mgmt types right now.