Development Resources

MSFS prepares students not only to become academic experts but also experienced practitioners in their international fields of interest. Both co-curricular and extracurricular activities are designed to equip students with knowledge and skills that can be applied over a lifetime. Below are just a few examples of activities the program organizes to further career development:

Internships

Internships are an integral part of the MSFS education and students’ preparation for a career in the international arena. They provide students with the opportunity to enhance their academic coursework, gain professional experience and insight into career opportunities, and develop contacts in their field of interest. MSFS students travel the world to fulfill the internship requirement.

Alumni Networking Events

Each year, MSFS students take part in a variety of different events designed to connect current students with MSFS alumni working in government agencies, international organizations, and firms within the private sector. Students have a unique opportunity to interact directly with alumni, receive advice from them regarding their academic and professional careers, and create their own local network of contacts. These events include on-site visits to organizations where alumni work, and formal and informal networking events with alumni on the Hilltop.

New York Career Trip

With the support of our MSFS Advisory Board, the MSFS program fosters an annual career trip to New York City to introduce first-year students to MSFS alumni working in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. During this trip, students attend panels on careers in business, consulting, banking, and the United Nations and its agencies. Students also have the opportunity to meet with alumni, conduct site visits, and network with MSFS’s large alumni base at the annual New York City MSFS Alumni Reception.

Panels, Conferences, and Receptions

Throughout the year, MSFS hosts a variety of career and firm-specific informational events, including panel discussions, conferences, and other networking events on and off campus. Through these events, students can meet with MSFS alumni and other practitioners to discuss career opportunities and current trends in international affairs.

Individual Advising

• The SFS Career Center provides valuable career guidance and support to MSFS students as they make the transition from school to the workplace.
• MSFS faculty, including both full-time scholar-teachers and part-time adjuncts who are currently employed in government, business and the nonprofit sector, provide advice, assistance, and contacts for students seeking temporary internships or permanent employment in Washington, D.C. and beyond.
• Associates of the SFS Institute for the Study of Diplomacy, who spend one or two years on leave from the U.S. and other governments serve as mentors and advisors to MSFS students who are seeking careers in public service.

Alumni Network

MSFS alumni around the world return to share their experience with students in the classroom, on panels, through skills workshops, during career receptions, and as members of recruitment teams.

SFS Career Center

In addition to our own in-house career services, MSFS students and alumni are able to draw upon the vast resources of the School of Foreign Service Career Center (SFSCC). Meet the SFSCC team here.