I’m a rising sophomore in college and I had recently declared my major as Public Policy. I’ve been worried if I should get a job immediately after graduation or go straight to graduate school. I also don’t know what I want to minor in yet, so I’m completely confused. Also a lot of my friends and family are worried that I wouldn’t be able to get a job in that major since I’m a women and African American. Honestly I’m extremely conflicted and I’m now questioning if I made the right choice. I would appreciate any feedback and advice.
Look ad job ads in your field to find out job expectations, years of experience, and educational requirements.
It’s early days yet- you don’t have to have it all sorted out!
If you are talking about a Masters in Public Policy, virtually all of the reputable ones want several years of experience. Unfortunately, it is a very popular field and there is quite a racket in getting new college grads to take internships for little to no pay, then graduate them to jobs with very little pay and then ask for a masters before getting to the jobs that pay.reasonably well.
Minoring is not necessary, and is really best for when there is another area in which you have a real interest (or your major requirements put you really close to having it anyway).
Look for internships in your area of interest for this summer (you won’t find much as most have already started, but you might be able to find something through your major advisor)- and start looking by Thanksgiving for one for next summer. Let your experience shape your next steps.
Also, the State department has some student intern options until June 6. Go to state.usa.gov, and look for “The Internship Experience Program (IEP)” (“non-temporary appointments that are expected to last the length of the academic program for which the intern is enrolled”). It takes work to navigate, but persistence pays. Sign up for notifications when they open internships- they roll in erratically through the year.
Do you have to minor in something?
My advice would be to stay on the grad school track, so you at least have the option. When the time gets closer, take the GRE and see how you do. The scores are good for several (5?) years from the test date, so you can still use the score if you decide to work for a few years first
No I don’t have a minor yet.
It’s usually best to work for a couple of years before grad school, even if you’re temping or waiting tables. Many grad programs require work experience. Minors aren’t worth much and you don’t have to have one.