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Experiential Learning and Career Success

Navigating Uncertainty in the Federal Job Market

While the federal job market faces uncertainty, you still have the power to shape your future. Challenges are a natural part of any career journey- resilience, adaptability, and strategic planning are key to turning obstacles into success. 

  1. Keep Going: Stay Active in Your Job Search  

    • Apply Widely: Look beyond federal roles—consider private companies, non-profits, state agencies, and consulting firms. 
    • Explore Alternate Opportunities:  Consider roles in consulting, non-profits, state and local government, research, contract work, fellowships, or temporary/seasonal positions (e.g., in forestry and environmental science) can keep you active. 
    • Leverage AI: Use tools like ChatGPT to help locate jobs and internships. 
    • Develop a Personal Brand
      • Portfolio and Social Media: Build a digital portfolio or blog to showcase communication projects, writing samples, or event planning experience.

  2. Keep Networking: Build Meaningful Connections 

    • Follow-Up: Reconnect with federal hiring managers and stay updated on agency news. If a job offer was rescinded, maintaining contact with hiring managers shows your continued interest should opportunities re-emerge. 
    • Engage Professionally: Research and follow groups relevant to your major to gain industry insights. Attend webinars, and networking events, and follow them on social media. 
      • For Forestry and Conservation Students: Join organizations like Society of American Foresters, The Wildlife Society, College to Climate, The National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council, The Society for Range Management, Society of Wood Science and Technology, Forest Products Society, etc.
    • Attend Conferences/Workshops and Career Fairs:UM Hire Griz Career Fair is April 2nd, from 12-3pm in the UC Ballroom
    • College Networks (LinkedIn, ): Reach out to professors, alumni, and peers—many jobs are found through word-of-mouth. 
    • Conduct Informational Interviews: Schedule informational interviews with industry professionals to gain insights and expand your network. You can also use this tactic to find a mentor in your field who can offer ongoing guidance, industry insights, and potential job leads after graduation.

  3. Keep Growing: Enhance Your Skills & Increase Your Value 

    • Expand Your Skillset: Consider certifications in AI literacy, management, marketing, public speaking, or entrepreneurship. Explore free online courses on LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, EdX, Coursera, or complete Griz Career Skills for digital badging.
    • Engage in Experiential Learning
      • Internships and Part-Time Roles: Look for internships or volunteer opportunities in communications departments of local businesses or non-profits.
      • Project-Based Learning: Consider real-world projects like consulting for a local business, case competitions, or community events that require strategic communication planning.
    • Digital Presence: Keep your LinkedIn and Handshake profiles current.
    • Utilize University and Community Resources
      • Experiential Learning & Career Success (Aber 2nd floor): Leverage ELCS services for resume reviews, mock interviews, and connecting with alumni in communications roles.
      • On-Campus Clubs: Get involved in clubs or organizations focused on communications, public relations, or marketing to build leadership and teamwork skills.

Job & Career Exploration Sites

    • : *seasonal positions have bee reinstated

    Employment Opportunities Outside of the US Government:

    It's important not to limit yourself to federal positions, you can explore opportunities with state and local governments, nonprofit organizations and even private corporations. Below is a list of employer types that may offer relevant job opportunities. This is not a list of specific employers, so further research is necessary to identify hiring companies within each category.

    • City and State Government
      • Municipalities
      • Parks and Reserves
      • Extension Services
    • International
      • The World Bank
      • Food and Agriculture Organization of the United nations
      • Peace Corps
    • Private Consultants/Consulting Firms
    • Universities and Colleges
    • Non-Governmental Organizations (e.g. The Nature Conservancy)
    • Private Companies/Consumer Goods Producers (e.g. Kimberly Clark)
    • Utility Companies
    • Historical Sites
    • Research Groups
    • Youth Camps
    • Law Firms

  • Forestry and Conservation Specific Employers Outside of the US Government:

    It's important not to limit yourself to federal positions, you can explore opportunities with state and local governments, nonprofit organizations and even private corporations. Below is a list of employer types that may offer relevant job opportunities. This is not a list of specific employers, so further research is necessary to identify hiring companies within each category.

    • Arboretums
    • Agricultural Experiment Stations
    • Botanical/Zoological Gardens
    • Conservation Agencies
    • Environmental Education Centers
    • Inspection Agencies and Control Boards
    • Land Management Companies
    • Land Appraisers
    • Livestock Ranches
    • Museums
    • Nature Centers
    • National and International Environmental Organizations
    • Private Landowners
    • Private Recreation Organizations
    • Timber Companies
    • Wood, Wood Products, Pulp, and Paper Manufacturers (e.g. International paper, Georgia Pacific)
    • Wildlife Refuges
    • Zoological and Environmental Societies

    Medicine Specific Job and Exploration Sites

    Nursing Specific Job and Exploration Sites

    Occupational Therapy Specific Job and Exploration Sites

    Pharmacy Specific Job and Exploration Sites

    Physical Therapy Specific Job and Exploration Sites

    Speech Pathology

    Biological Sciences

    Health and Biological Science Specific Employers Outside of the US Government:

    It's important not to limit yourself to federal positions, you can explore opportunities with state and local governments, nonprofit organizations and even private corporations. Below is a list of employer types that may offer relevant job opportunities. This is not a list of specific employers, so further research is necessary to identify hiring companies within each category.

    • Industry and Laboratories:
      • Pharmaceutical, healthcare, agriculture, food processing and safety, environmental, biotechnology
      • Private Research Institutions
      • Public Health Departments
      • Colleges and Universities
      • State and Local Governments
    • Healthcare and Medical Facilities:
      • Group or Private Practice
      • Hospitals
      • Clinics
      • Health Networks
      • Nursing Homes
      • Rehabilitation Centers
      • Mental Health Institutions
    • Government and Public Sector:
      • State and Local Health Departments
      • Armed services
      • Correctional facilities
    • Education and Research:
      • Colleges and Universities
      • Medical Schools
      • Professional Schools: Colleges of Pharmacy, Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and Agriculture
      • Private Research Foundations
      • Independent Laboratories
      • Research Centers
    • Biotechnology and Manufacturing:
      • Biotechnology Companies
      • Agricultural Chemicals
      • Food Safety
      • Pharmaceuticals
      • Medical Device and Equipment
      • Research and Testing
    • Publishing and Media:
      • Publishing companies: Scientific magazines, professional journals, periodicals, textbooks, and online publishers
      • Newspapers
      • Educational and Scientific Software Companies

Remember:

Your career journey isn’t defined by one setback. Keep Going, Keep Networking, and Keep Growing!
For personalized support, ELCS is here to help with resume reviews, interview preparation, and job search strategies. Book your career appointment today! 

For more information and resources regarding navigating jobs in public service sectors please see our downloadable "Navigating Uncertainty in the Federal Job Market" guide.