Why Communications Students Should Consider the Federal ...

By: Nathan Pace

Communications and public affairs are essential functions in the federal government. Students pursuing a degree in communications or public relations can serve as Foreign Affairs Specialist, Public Affairs Specialists, and many other positions across the U.S. There are a variety of internships for students interested in these fields, such as the National Media Internship with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ??or the Federal Communications Commission Internship ?with the FCC. Interns at the Federal Communications Commission can work on a variety of different projects, such as in the Office of the Chairman or the Office of the Commission, as well as in the Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau.

A Visual Information Specialist works in federal agencies across the country to coordinate project planning and strategy for data and visualization programs. The Specialist assists in managing contracts with particular emphasis on data visualization, web-based media projects and innovative technologies. This position also entails ensuring that knowledge and information is shared across the team and promoting effectiveness in achieving the goals.

Currently, the federal government has over 5,000 full-time permanent positions in Telecommunications and Public Affairs, as well as 3,500 in General Arts and Information. Federal Agencies such as the Department of Defense, Agriculture, Health and Humans Service and Justice all utilize communication specialists. Positions are located across the country in every state as well as abroad.

Check out http://makingthedifference.org/index.shtml for more information.

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