“I want to do public service, but is the federal government the right place for me?”
Careers in the federal government are not for everyone, but for those committed to public service, those who wish to make a difference, to affect change, the federal government provides unparalleled opportunities for smart, dedicated and highly motivated young people. There are many fields and career choices that allow opportunities to affect policy; working for the federal government provides the opportunity to make policy. The federal government is also committed to recruiting, retaining and advancing a diverse workforce and provides excellent benefits and professional development opportunities.

“What sort of placements do Scholars get and how do I arrange them?”
SINSI has relationships with a number of key agencies and works actively with its Scholars and these agencies to secure meaningful, professional-level placements. SINSI has placed interns and fellows at: State, Defense, Treasury, Agriculture, USAID, the Millennium Challenge Corporation, EPA, the Council of Economic Advisors, the intelligence community, and the Department of the Army. Scholars have worked on issues such as Iran, Iraq, China, climate change issues, sustainable development, malaria control, food security, sanctions and nuclear non-proliferation.

“Why do the two-year fellowship in the middle of the MPA program?”
The federal government is the nation's largest, most complex, and most diverse employer. That said, finding meaningful entry points can be a challenge for a college student or recent graduate. With the new emphasis on public service from the Obama Administration and Congress, the expansion of programs such as Presidential Management Fellows and the current economic problems, competition is keener than in years past. Scholars with one year of their MPA completed are more competitive than recent graduates, bring enhanced academic skills and maturity to the workplace and, with their return to the School for their final year, can apply their practical experience to their last year of studies and be well prepared to join the federal service upon graduation.

“What sort of languages do I need to apply and may I study under this program?”
There is no formal language requirement for the program, but consideration will be given to those students proficient in any language and especially in critical languages, such as Arabic, Farsi, Urdu, Hindi, Chinese and Japanese. The summer intensive language training may be in any language relevant to the Scholar's field of study and career goals.

“What sort of support does SINSI provide?”
For junior-track scholars during their summer internship, SINSI provides a stipend and housing allowance and travel to/from Washington or place of internship. For the two-year fellowship, SINSI provides an entry-level equivalent salary and travel to/from place of fellowship. The language stipend is a set amount the Scholar may use for course costs, travel, housing in any combination within the limit set.

As Robertson Scholars, those selected receive a full scholarship for tuition and living expenses while enrolled in the MPA program. For more information, please visit wws.princeton.edu/scholars.