Think Tanks and Careers in Public Policy

Think tanks, which include research centers and policy institutes, are organizations that conduct research to support the creation and evolution of public policy.

Areas of Research

Think tanks may focus on one particular issue or a combination of them. Areas of research include social policy, political strategy, economics, and industrial/business policy. Financial support for these organizations comes from several sources, including government entities, advocacy organizations, and private businesses.

Considerations

Students interested in policy research should consider issues of interest, level of direct activism by the think tank, the organization’s relationship with the government, and the student’s role within the organization. An entry-level professional in this field will most likely conduct supportive qualitative or quantitative research for a larger group initiative within the think tank. Research experience at Yale, particularly independent research projects, and an extensive knowledge base regarding specific public issues can make an applicant more marketable for research positions.

Internships and Post-Graduate Employment

Explore internship and full-time opportunities at various Think Tanks and Research Institutes. This article provides some initial considerations for students who are thinking about interning with a Think Tank. Below are direct links to various Think Tanks and Research Institutes:

2021 Virtual Common Good & Creative Careers Networking Event

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Seeking opportunities with a nonprofit organization, within the government sector, or within the creative careers indsutries? Join Yale’s Office of Career Strategy on March 19, 2021, from 2pm-4pm to meet with employers from across these CGCC areas.

Yale’s Common Good …

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Common Good & Creative Careers Alumni Podcast Episodes

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As part of the Office of Career Strategy’s Take this Job and Love it Podcast, Common Good & Creative Careers has developed programming by interviewing CGCC Alumni. Current student and CGCC Fellow, Claire Zalla, YC ’21 has interviewed various Yale …

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With Honor Action Fellowship

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With Honor Action is seeking motivated, high-achieving individuals who are recent college graduates or rising seniors to support With Honor Action in various capacities. The ideal candidates will have exceptional attention to detail, judgment beyond their years, and a positive, can-do attitude. …

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Sample Behavioral Interview Questions

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Use the following behavioral interview questions as you prepare for any upcoming interview:

Introduction/General:
Tell me about yourself.
Why did you choose Yale?
What have you done that you are proud of? What is your greatest accomplishment?
How do you …

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Resume Accomplishment Statements

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Check out OCS’ examples below to make sure the accomplishment statements on your resume make a strong impact to any employer.

Converting to Result Bullets: Before and After

Before

Worked with a student leadership committee to increase member participation
Contributed …

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