The Student's Federal Career Guide: 10 Steps to Find and Win Top Government Jobs and Internships(Book+CD)

Introduction to Student's Federal Career Guide

Why go Federal?

If you’re reading this book, you are probably aware that the private industry job market is a jungle. This is especially true for recent graduates—today, college graduates are more likely than high school dropouts to be unemployed. Having a college degree no longer ensures that you will have the job of your dreams after graduation. In fact, in today’s competitive job market you may find yourself in competition with those who have multiple advanced degrees or 5 to 10 years of job experience!

Your choice to pursue a job in government is a smart move. The United States federal government is the largest employer in the U.S. The government employs 2.6 million people in jobs that range from biology to art restoration to law enforcement. In addition, the average federal employee is over 46 years of age, and two of every five are eligible now to retire. Agencies are scrambling to find a new, younger workforce …YOU!

Work in the federal government is often more financially rewarding than work in private industry. The average entry level starting salary in government is $26,000 to $37,000 per year. The government may also offer full benefits: including comprehensive health insurance, 401K with matching funds, 10 paid holidays annually, plus 13 days paid vacation to start! Agencies also have the discretion to pay you a signing bonus or pay your student loan debt. In addition, the federal government often offers more workplace flexibility than corporate America. All of these factors add up to a great opportunity for a successful and rewarding career opportunity for you.