With just a month to go before our December 15th deadline, we know that many of you may be working hard on your applications but also wondering, how can I best showcase my dedication to public service?

At Princeton SPIA, we are committed to public service. It is the ethos by which we define ourselves- through our academic training in public and international affairs, our domestic and international service opportunities, and our generous funding, we are dedicated to serving the world. As such, we seek students who share in this ethos.

Showcasing Public Service through Work Experience

Some students have worked within organizations that are inherently public-serving. On a domestic and international scale, students have worked within governmental sectors, NGOs, on political campaigns, within education and social service organizations, through organizations like Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, Teach For America, Fulbright, military and law enforcement, and through a litany of other public sector capacities. Some have also worked within private industries, but with a focus and impact in the public sector. These positions have helped improve access to healthcare, provide education to the disenfranchised, offer mentorship and guidance, amplify constituent voices and concerns, and collectively help improve countless lives.

This is the essence of public service: doing your part to help improve the lives of those around you. Tell us how you are doing this through your professional work experience.

Showcasing Public service through Volunteerism

Many applicants will showcase their commitment to public service through volunteerism throughout their communities. This can take many forms. We have had applicants arrange immunization information workshops, offer translation services, provide assistance during tax season, host community clean-ups and voter registration drives, serve as Big Brothers and Big Sisters, volunteer as EMTs and firefighters, teach tech classes, launch waste and recycling initiatives, offer tutoring support, and spearhead or participate in other initiatives to help improve their communities.

There really isn’t one preferred medium of volunteerism over another; we just want to see how you have invested your time towards making your community a better place.

Some students will showcase their service only in their resume/CV, while others will weave service through their statement of purpose, supplemental essay, and resume/CV. As an applicant, there is no one specific way or place to show evidence of your commitment. But this ethos should shine forth through your application.   

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way to serve your community. Just remember that at Princeton SPIA, we are an institution committed towards serving the public good. Are you committed to public service? Join us!