Vandy in Policy, Law & Social Impact

This community gives access to resources, events, and career advice for students interested in careers in policy and law. We encourage you to use this space to help you make an informed decision about the area(s) you want to engage in for volunteering, internships, and your career.

Welcome!

The Vandy in Policy, Law and Social Impact Career Community is dedicated to the dynamic world of public service, spanning state, local, and federal governments, as well as think thanks and nonprofit organizations. Join our community to access resources, events, and career advice within the public sector and connect with a network of employers and alumni who have made an impact in public service.

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Vandy in Policy, Law, & Social Impact Toolkit

Recruiting timelines, career paths, quick start resources, and more.

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Your Community Contacts

  • Madeline Tallo, J.D.

    Madeline Tallo, J.D.

    Career Coach

  • Penny Baga

    Penny Baga

    Employer Relations Specialist

Policy, Law & Social Impact Specific Drop-In Hours

Policy, Law & Social Impact Specific Drop-In Hours

Do you have industry-specific questions? Drop in hours are a great place to have your application materials reviewed, understand industry recruiting timelines, and learn how to get connected to top employers in the arts and media industry!

  • These drop ins are similar to standard drop-ins except they will be reserved for students interested in arts & media related industries.
  • No appointment needed and these conversations can last up to 15 minutes.
  • View drop-in hours.

Note: Drop ins are not held when classes are not in session (holiday breaks, exam days, inclement weather, etc).

Vandy in policy, law, and social impact

Industry Specific Job Boards:

Industry Blogs:

Recommended Resources:

For Pre-Law specific resources please visit the pre-law advising webpage.

Gain Experience

Finding Internships

VandyPASS

VandyPASS is a digital badging platform where students have a visual representation of the skills obtained during experiential learning opportunities. These badges are based on the following career readiness competencies that employers consider the most valuable in the workplace.

  • Career & Self Development
  • Communication
  • Teamwork
  • Professionalism
  • Critical Thinking
  • Technology
  • Leadership
  • Equity & Inclusion

Login to VandyPASS profile here. Be sure to use your Vanderbilt email and password.

FAQs

  • What Jobs Are Available in the Public Sector?

    The Public Sector offers a diverse range of opportunities tailored to various interests. A career in the public sector can encompass: 

    • Government Jobs: Positions available directly within specific government departments at the federal, state, or local municipal levels. Examples include roles in public administration, public safety, healthcare administration, and environmental regulation. 
    • Nongovernmental/Associations/Third Party: Opportunities in nonprofit organizations that operate independently of government agencies. These roles may involve working for advocacy groups, charitable organizations, or international NGOs, contributing to areas such as social services, environmental conservation, or humanitarian efforts. 
    • Think Tanks: Engaging in research and policy analysis within organizations dedicated to studying and influencing public policy. Think tanks play a crucial role in shaping government decisions by providing in-depth research and strategic recommendations. 
    • Legal Industry Jobs: Exploring legal roles within the public sector, such as working as a paralegal for government agencies, public defenders, or in-house legal counsel. Some individuals may choose to further their career by attending law school and becoming lawyers, specializing in public interest law or government legal affairs. 
    • Healthcare Administration: Managing and overseeing healthcare services at the public sector level, which can involve roles in public health agencies, government hospitals, and regulatory bodies. 
    • Education Administration: Working in educational institutions that are publicly funded, such as public schools, colleges, or universities, in administrative roles like school management, policy development, or curriculum planning. 
    • Environmental Regulation: Contributing to environmental sustainability by working in government agencies responsible for developing and implementing regulations and policies related to environmental protection and conservation. 
    • Urban Planning: Participating in the planning and development of communities, cities, and regions by working for municipal planning departments or regional development agencies. 


    It's important to explore your specific interests and skills to find the most suitable career path within the dynamic landscape of the public sector. 

  • What Should I Consider When Deciding Between a Masters in Public Policy or a Law Degree?

    There are many factors to consider when deciding whether to pursue a Master's or Law degree after completing your undergraduate studies.

    Potential career paths to consider: one as an MPP and another as a legal professional/lawyer. The most common jobs for those graduating with an MPP include policy analyst, legislative aide, community manager, public relations manager, program manager, market researcher, regulatory affairs manager, and government relations manager.

    It is essential to thoroughly research all your options before making a concrete decision. Consider reaching out to a Vanderbilt alum who is currently pursuing or has graduated from either a MPP or JD program and ask for a brief conversation about their experiences at their respective programs. 

  • What Internship Is the Best for a Student Considering a Career in Policy, Law, or Social Impact?

    There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The ideal internship ultimately depends on your unique skills, interests, and career goals. Here are some considerations to help you make an informed decision: 

    • Federal Positions in D.C.: Interning in federal agencies in Washington, D.C., provides firsthand experience in the heart of the nation's government. This option is suitable for those interested in federal policies, international relations, and government operations. 
    • Local Think Tanks: Consider interning at a local think tank, where you can engage in research and policy analysis on issues relevant to your community. This experience can deepen your understanding of local challenges and solutions. 
    • Non-Profit Organizations: Volunteer at a local non-profit organization to gain insights into public service from a different perspective. Non-profits often address specific community needs, allowing you to contribute to social causes and understand grassroots initiatives. 
    • Job Shadowing in Local Government: Explore your interest in local government by job shadowing a representative. This hands-on experience provides exposure to various roles within the public sector, helping you identify specific areas of interest. 
    • Public Health Internships: If your career goals align with public health, consider internships in government health departments or public health organizations. This can be particularly valuable if you are interested in healthcare administration and policy. 
    • Environmental Organizations: If environmental issues are a focus, seek internships with government agencies or non-profits dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainability. 


    When choosing an internship, assess the skills you currently possess and those you aim to develop. Think about the type of impact you want to make in the public sector. By aligning your internship with your goals and interests, you'll gain valuable experience that will shape your future career in public service.