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:

Travel Reimbursement Program for Yale Seniors

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In an effort to support students pursuing careers in the nonprofit, government and the arts sectors, OCS offers a travel reimbursement program to help offset costs associated with travel for interviews and/or auditions of Yale College Class of 2020 graduates. …

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Common Good & Creative Careers Newsletter – Sign up now!

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If you are interested in getting alerts in your inbox on all things related to Common Good & Creative Careers, you can now sign up for a customized newsletter based on your specific industry interests within Common Good & Creative …

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Robyn Acampora Director of Strategic Initiatives and Public Service Careers Robyn Acampora
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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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