Internships in the government sector are highly competitive and can unlock opportunities for career advancement. By gaining experience in the public sector early on, aspiring candidates can build a solid foundation of skills and knowledge, making them attractive to future employers.
To secure a government internship position, candidates need to stand out from the crowd. This is where a well-crafted internship resume comes in. In this article, we’ll guide you through the key elements of an outstanding government internship resume and provide examples of successful resumes that have helped candidates secure positions.
Key Elements of a Winning Government Internship Resume
Objective Statement
Your resume objective statement sets the tone for the rest of your resume. It should be tailored to the specific internship position and succinctly summarize your relevant skills, experiences, and career goals.
Education
List your educational background, including your degree, institution, major, and minor. Highlight any academic achievements or honors, including your GPA if it’s high.
Relevant Coursework
Include any coursework that is relevant to the government internship position you are applying for. This demonstrates your knowledge and interest in the field and helps make you an attractive candidate.
Work Experience
Include any relevant work experience, including internships, part-time or full-time jobs, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities. Emphasize transferable skills and accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to excel in the government sector.
Tailor Each Component to the Specific Internship Position
Make sure to customize your resume for each government internship position you apply for. Review the job description carefully and highlight relevant skills and experiences that are most applicable.
Examples of Successful Government Internship Resumes
Resume Example One:
Objective Statement: Seeking a summer government internship position within the Department of Justice where I can utilize my legal and analytical skills to contribute to the department’s mission of upholding the rule of law.
Education: Georgetown University, BA in Political Science, Minor in Law and Society, 3.9 GPA
Relevant Coursework: Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, International Human Rights Law
Work Experience: – Legal Intern, The Innocence Project- Research Assistant, Georgetown University Law Center- Volunteer, Amnesty International
Resume Example Two:
Objective Statement: Seeking a government internship position in public policy where I can utilize my research and writing skills to help shape meaningful legislation.
Education: American University, BA in Public Policy, 3.8 GPA
Relevant Coursework: Policy Analysis, Legislative Process, Public Administration
Work Experience: – Policy Intern, United States Senate- Legislative Aide, Maryland Office of the Attorney General- Research Assistant, American University Public Policy Institute
Additional Elements to Consider
Creative Resume Design
While the content of your resume is the most important factor, creative resume design can help your resume stand out from other candidates. However, make sure your design choices are appropriate for the government sector and don’t distract from the content of your resume.
Non-Traditional Paths to Government Internships
There are many non-traditional paths to securing government internships. For example, some interns come from the private sector, academia, or other fields entirely. Think creatively about how your skills and experiences can be translated to the government sector.
Emerging Trends in the Public Sector Job Market
The public sector job market is constantly changing, and understanding emerging trends can help you position yourself as a standout candidate. Stay up-to-date on government policies, initiatives, and technologies.
Key Takeaways
- A well-crafted government internship resume can help you stand out from other candidates and secure opportunities for career advancement.
- Tailor each component of your resume to the specific government internship position you apply for.
- Highlight relevant skills and experiences that are most applicable to the position.
- Consider creative resume design, non-traditional paths to government internships, and emerging trends in the public sector job market.
- Stay up-to-date on government policies, initiatives, and technologies to remain competitive in the job market.
FAQ
How long should my government internship resume be?
Your government internship resume should be one to two pages. Make sure it’s easy to read and cleanly formatted.
Should I include references?
No, it’s not necessary to include references on your government internship resume. Instead, wait until you’re asked to provide them by the hiring manager.
Should I include a photo on my government internship resume?
No, it’s not necessary or advisable to include a photo on your government internship resume. Focus on highlighting your skills and experience instead.