Vandy in Education & Social Impact

This community gives access to resources, events, and career advice for students interested in careers in education and social impact. We encourage you to use this space to help you make an informed decision about the area(s) you want to engage in for volunteering, internships, and your career.

Welcome!

This Vandy In community supports students interested in education and social impact, two deeply interconnected fields that shape society in powerful ways. Whether you're passionate about classroom teaching, policy, nonprofit work, government service, or ed tech innovation, you'll find resources and career guidance to help you explore and thrive in these impactful pathways.

Stay in the Know: Education & Social Impact Opportunities!

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Vandy in Education & Social Impact

Recruiting timelines, career paths, quick start resources, and more.

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Your Community Contacts

  • Bethany Reilly

    Bethany Reilly

    Career Coach

  • Karen Chan

    Karen Chan

    Employer Relations Specialist

General Resources:

Industry - Specific Job Boards:

 

Recruitment Timeline

The hiring timeline can vary depending on the organization and the specific role. Many government agencies and non-profit organizations recruit for entry-level positions and internships during the spring semester, with application deadlines typically falling between January and March. Most education positions within schools have active hiring periods in the spring and early summer.

Gain Experience

Finding Internships

VandyPASS

VandyPASS is a digital badging platform where students have a visual representation of the skills obtained during experiential learning opportunities. These badges are based on the following career readiness competencies that employers consider the most valuable in the workplace.

  • Career & Self Development
  • Communication
  • Teamwork
  • Professionalism
  • Critical Thinking
  • Technology
  • Leadership

Login to VandyPASS profile here. Be sure to use your Vanderbilt email and password.

FAQs

  • Can I Still Be a Part of Vandy in Education if I Don’t Want to Go Into Teaching?

    Yes! Teaching is a large aspect of the education industry, but it is not the only career path to go down. Fields such as education technology, training and development, and education policy are growing in popularity and are vital to many organizations.

  • Can I Still Be a Teacher if I Don’t Major in Education?

    Yes! While it is true that majoring in education is a direct way to become qualified to teach, it is not the only way. You may enter teaching through a special program, such as Teach for America, or you can pursue a master’s degree in education. Make sure to check on the specific state requirements for teacher certification in the place you want to live/work.

  • Do I Need a Master’s Degree to Work in Education?

    Not necessarily. Each state has its own requirements for teaching licensure. Additionally, most states have special programs for underserved communities who are in need of teachers that may waive a master’s degree requirement. They may also be waived for subject areas that are in high demand (STEM fields, for example).

  • What Jobs Are Available in the Public Sector?

    The Public Sector offers a diverse range of opportunities tailored to various interests. A career in the public sector can encompass: 

    • Government Jobs: Positions available directly within specific government departments at the federal, state, or local municipal levels. Examples include roles in public administration, public safety, healthcare administration, and environmental regulation. 
    • Nongovernmental/Associations/Third Party: Opportunities in nonprofit organizations that operate independently of government agencies. These roles may involve working for advocacy groups, charitable organizations, or international NGOs, contributing to areas such as social services, environmental conservation, or humanitarian efforts. 
    • Think Tanks: Engaging in research and policy analysis within organizations dedicated to studying and influencing public policy. Think tanks play a crucial role in shaping government decisions by providing in-depth research and strategic recommendations. 
    • Legal Industry Jobs: Exploring legal roles within the public sector, such as working as a paralegal for government agencies, public defenders, or in-house legal counsel. Some individuals may choose to further their career by attending law school and becoming lawyers, specializing in public interest law or government legal affairs. 
    • Healthcare Administration: Managing and overseeing healthcare services at the public sector level, which can involve roles in public health agencies, government hospitals, and regulatory bodies. 
    • Education Administration: Working in educational institutions that are publicly funded, such as public schools, colleges, or universities, in administrative roles like school management, policy development, or curriculum planning. 
    • Environmental Regulation: Contributing to environmental sustainability by working in government agencies responsible for developing and implementing regulations and policies related to environmental protection and conservation. 
    • Urban Planning: Participating in the planning and development of communities, cities, and regions by working for municipal planning departments or regional development agencies. 

    It's important to explore your specific interests and skills to find the most suitable career path within the dynamic landscape of the public sector. 

  • What Internship Is the Best for a Student Considering a Career in Education or Social Impact?

    There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The ideal internship ultimately depends on your unique skills, interests, and career goals. Here are some considerations to help you make an informed decision: 

    • Federal Positions in D.C.: Interning in federal agencies in Washington, D.C., provides firsthand experience in the heart of the nation's government. This option is suitable for those interested in federal policies, international relations, and government operations. 
    • Local Think Tanks: Consider interning at a local think tank, where you can engage in research and policy analysis on issues relevant to your community. This experience can deepen your understanding of local challenges and solutions. 
    • Non-Profit Organizations: Volunteer at a local non-profit organization to gain insights into public service from a different perspective. Non-profits often address specific community needs, allowing you to contribute to social causes and understand grassroots initiatives. 
    • Job Shadowing in Local Government: Explore your interest in local government by job shadowing a representative. This hands-on experience provides exposure to various roles within the public sector, helping you identify specific areas of interest. 
    • Public Health Internships: If your career goals align with public health, consider internships in government health departments or public health organizations. This can be particularly valuable if you are interested in healthcare administration and policy. 
    • Environmental Organizations: If environmental issues are a focus, seek internships with government agencies or non-profits dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainability. 

    When choosing an internship, assess the skills you currently possess and those you aim to develop. Think about the type of impact you want to make in the public sector. By aligning your internship with your goals and interests, you'll gain valuable experience that will shape your future career in public service.