Public service entails any work performed for, on behalf of, or in support of the government that benefits the general population. It includes police and fire departments that protect citizens and their property, schools that provide education and resources, public transportation systems that make it easier to get around town, and health services to help keep people healthy.
The federal government was built for a workforce that no longer exists, and it remains difficult to recruit the kind of talent that is needed to compete in the new world of public service. The government has a responsibility to offer challenging and meaningful work, and it is irresponsible to recruit someone with the potential to be an excellent employee and then squander their commitment in a dead-end job.
What’s more, many of the public service jobs that are available require a degree, and the cost to obtain that level of education is significant. This is why it’s important to consider whether a particular career path is right for you before investing the time and money necessary to complete an undergraduate or graduate degree in public service.
Public service is a noble career choice, and it’s worth exploring your interest in the field before making any final decisions. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to learn more about this career area: through networking and job shadowing; by attending public service-related events; and by taking advantage of online tools designed to help you explore the field.
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