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Career Resources for Students
Political Science
Students who major in Politics, American Politics, and International Relations prepare themselves for a variety of career fields in the public, non-profit, and private sectors. There are four essential steps in placing yourself in the best position to compete for jobs in these fields that best suit your interests, values, and strengths. The links below take you to resources related to each of these steps.
Career Exploration
Explore the range of career paths that most naturally follow from your chosen major. Consider what types of academic knowledge and skills – e.g., writing and speaking, foreign language competence, quantitative fluency, etc. – might be expected of graduates entering these fields. Determine whether graduate training is likely to be necessary and, if so, what sort of training. Note that most Drake alumni not only change jobs at many points, but also shift career fields during their work lives.
Diversity and Inclusion Resources and Programs - American Political Science Association
Career Assessment (Career Cruising)
Careers for Political Scientists
Career and Post-Graduate Opportunities and Resources
My World Abroad (must register)
Graduate Programs in International Relations
Experiential Preparation
Career-related learning takes place not only in the classroom, but also in real-world settings that require critical decision-making. Opportunities to learn-by-doing can take many forms: internships, paid employment, student government, simulations (e.g., Mock Trial), volunteering, participating in student organizations, etc. Drake and the surrounding community offer many opportunities for experiential learning related to your career goals.
Job Search Tools/Skills
The job search process offers opportunities to familiarize potential employers with the value that you can bring to their organization. To accomplish this, applicants must learn how to best organize and present information about their knowledge, skills, and potential. They must also understand how to find job openings and identify which opportunities present good fits.
Learning Express Hub: Job Search
Networking
However bright your star, no one will notice if it is hidden away. Networking is a way of building social connections within the professional world that can open opportunities. Learning how to build, maintain, and cultivate a professional network is an essential part of pursuing your desired career.
Other
International Groups in Central Iowa
International News and Analysis
Drake Students Receiving Fulbright Scholarships
Drake Alumni Who Have Served in the Peace Corps
Drake Policies
A&S News
A&S Calendar 
