Policy & Think Tanks

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.

Public Service: Engaging Responsibly

For those interested in public service work, whether that be through structured internship programs, post-graduate employment, community service, or volunteer work, it’s important to think about what responsible engagement looks like.

Review this page on Planning Public Service Projects to learn more about what responsible engagement looks like and how you can develop a plan that aligns well for you and the community you are hoping to serve.

State Department Internship Application is Open! Deadline: Monday, October 9th

The U.S. Department of State is excited to announce the call for applications for the upcoming Summer 2024 program cycle for the Student Internship Program (SIP).

The deadline to submit via  USAjobs.gov is Monday, Oct 9th, 11:59pm (EST).

Students are …

By Kelly McSergi
Kelly McSergi Assistant Director of Employer Relations
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Join FEMA for On-Campus Recruiting Events – Thursday, Sept. 21

FEMA Region 2 is Hiring – Make a Difference

FEMA is looking for individuals who are passionate about public service and want to make a difference in the community.

The “Make A Difference” program will fast-track more than 300 students and …

By Kelly McSergi
Kelly McSergi Assistant Director of Employer Relations
Read more »

Explore the World of Political Campaigns with the Volunteer Coaching Program Internship

Are you interested in diving into the background of democratic political campaigns? Volunteer Coaching Program, VCP offers professional development to political campaign professionals and has supported the Obama reelection campaign, Biden’s presidential campaign, and the DNC in coaching.

Jo Ilfeld, …

By Kelly McSergi
Kelly McSergi Assistant Director of Employer Relations
Read more »

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Job Search Resources

Whether you’re planning to apply to a health professions program (such as medical, dental, or allied health programs), or are …

In an effort to support students pursuing careers in the nonprofit, government and the arts sectors, those interviewing for national …

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YC Career Outcomes

The Office of Career Strategy collects information about Yale College graduates. This tool allows users to search outcomes by year and major. Please visit Statistics & Reports for detailed reports.

Helpful Tips on using the Interactive Tool:

  • There is no Enter or Submit Button  Results will appear automatically with your selections
  • Choose ‘All Years’ or ‘All Majors’- For results across years and majors or check one for more granular results.
    • Default results will show the most recent Class Year.
    • Uncheck the selected major(s) to reset your search.
    • To ensure student confidentiality, results are only reported in the aggregate and more granular data is not available through this public tool.
    • The tool will return results with at least five responses. If you require additional information contact the Office of Career Strategy
    • First Destination Summaries are based on the knowledge rate of graduate outcomes six months after graduation under the guidelines set by the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

Most Recent Class Overview

Knowledge Rate Success Rate Mean Starting Salary Top Five Industries
86.8% of those graduating between July 1, 2021-June 30, 2022 96.9% employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation $76,359 among graduates employed in the United States. Financial Services, Education, Technology, Consulting, and Healthcare

 

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First Destination

First Destination refers to the postgraduate plans of Yale College graduates six months after graduation. The pursuits of Yale graduates include employment, graduate school, independent research, military service, and more.

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