Welcome to the Government & Public Administration Community!
Careers in Government and Public Administration relate to planning and performing government functions at the local, state and federal levels, including governance, national security, foreign service, planning, revenue and taxation, and regulations.
A primary goal of virtually all careers in public service is to help improve the quality of life and livelihood for the citizens represented, while supporting the betterment of the overall community.
What is the role of government and public administration?
The federal government deliberates and passes laws and administers many programs. Federal jobs support a variety of agencies responsible for:
- strengthening the economy
- representing U.S. interests abroad
- national security
- determining how natural resources are used
- taxation
- establishing and enforcing regulations for many industries and products.
State and local government offices support similar activities at their respective levels, that include:
- protecting the environment
- passing laws and ordinances
- public education
- police and fire departments
- parks
- collecting taxes
- managing budgets
- enforcing laws and ordinances
Gaining Experience
- Discover a list of organizations that offer internships in government, law, advocacy, and nonprofits.
- Get involved with local politics by attending city council meetings, working on a campaign, joining a board or commission, becoming a poll worker for elections, or supporting a local political party.
- Volunteer for your local government, United Nations organization, AmeriCorps, or volunteer.gov.
- Shadow an elected official or legislative aide.
- Find administrative assistant positions in government offices through your city or state’s website, or participate in research for a think tank.
- Complete a simulation with Forage to gain skills in government and public policy.
