Looking Beyond Graduate Programs: Alternative Career Entryways into International Affairs

Graduate programs are often considered the only viable entryway into a career in international affairs. But they are not. Internships and entry-level jobs are two potentially attractive alternatives. This article examines the pros and cons of internships and entry-level jobs to help you decide whether to pursue one. It then provides tips to help you secure an internship or entry-level opportunity that could begin your career.

Internships in international affairs

Internships are a short-term placement in an organisation to gain practical work experience in an industry during your tertiary studies. 

1. Should You Pursue an Internship

Student internships can be a valuable starting point for a career in international affairs, though it’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages that come with them. 

One of the main potential advantages of an internship is that it can give you an earlier entry into the field. High-performing interns are sometimes offered permanent positions. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, two-thirds of internships lead to job offers at the host organisation. 

Even if a job offer isn’t immediate, internships provide transferable skills, like communication, problem-solving and teamwork, that can strengthen future applications.

However, many internships, particularly in the non-government sector, are unpaid. They often require a significant time commitment that may interfere with work or studies. Carefully consider whether this trade-off aligns with your circumstances and career goals.

How Do You Find the Right Internship?

If you’re ready to pursue an internship, start by exploring YAIA’s Jobs, Internships and Opportunities Board, featuring a curated list of open internships. Additional internships of interest, open annually, include:  

• Deloitte Vacationer Internship Program

• PwC Vacationer Program

• EY Student Program

• KPMG Vacationer Program

• McKinsey & Company Scholarship and Internship Programs

• BCG First Nations Internship and Scholarship Program

• The Australian Tax Office University Paid Internship Program

• The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts University Vacation Employment Program

• The Australian Disability Network Internship Program

When evaluating internships, consider the following:

• Is the internship paid or unpaid?

• What is the weekly time commitment, and is it manageable?

• How well does the role align with your field of study and interests?

For more insights, see YAIA’s past article series on selecting internships and understanding your internship rights.

Entry-level roles in international affairs

An entry-level role is a non-graduate junior role in an organisation.

Should You Pursue an Entry-Level Role?

Entry-level roles can offer you at least two significant advantages over graduate programs.

First, without a “graduate” label, you may be given more responsibility and opportunities to lead projects, resulting in faster progression and earlier promotional opportunities.

Second, unlike many graduate programs that rotate participants through multiple teams, entry-level roles often allow you to stay in one area and build subject-matter expertise. This may suit your circumstances if you want to specialise in an area rather than be a generalist.

However, there are also challenges. Entry-level roles typically don’t come with a professional network like in graduate cohorts, and you will not have learning and development time built into your calendar. So you’ll need to be proactive about building your network and pursuing professional development opportunities.

How Do You Find the Right Role?

If you want to work in the public sector, then APS Jobs is a good place to find entry-level roles in the Commonwealth Government. Search for APS 1-3 positions and filter for relevant keywords, such as “international” or “policy”. You may also want to consider registering for talent pools or temporary registers maintained by government departments, and exploring entry-level roles in relevant state/territory/local governments.

In the private sector, roles that may appeal to young professionals in international relations include junior consultant (e.g. at KPMG, EY, Deloitte, PwC, BCG, McKinsey and Company, or Nous), officer (e.g. Palladium) or journalist (e.g at the ABC). 

Civil society organisations offering entry-level opportunities in international affairs include the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, the Lowy Institute, the Australia Institute, the United States Studies Centre, Asialink, Centre for Independent Studies, the Asia Society, and the Asia Foundation. 

When deciding whether to apply for a role, some helpful questions to consider include:

• Does the role align with my interests and skills?

• Are there clear opportunities for advancement

• Is the pay competitive?

• Does the organisation have a positive culture?

• Would I have access to flexible work arrangements? 

• Is the work conducive to maintaining a healthy work-life balance?

Securing your ideal internship or entry-level role

Whether you’re applying for an internship or an entry-level role, there are two key steps to improve your chances of securing the role:

1. Crafting a compelling CV and cover letter: Tailor your application to the position by addressing all selection criteria and highlighting relevant experiences. For detailed guidance, check out our tips on writing effective CVs and cover letters.

2. Preparing thoroughly for interviews: Understand the interview format and likely questions. Prepare a range of examples, ideally different from those in your cover letter, that showcase your skills. For more tips, refer to our interview preparation guide.

Looking beyond graduate programs

Graduate programs are just one potential option to launch your career in international affairs. You may want to look beyond this option and consider internships and entry-level roles. They can be an attractive alternative. Whichever path you choose, make sure it aligns with your career goals, interests, and circumstances. With a strong application and thorough preparation, you’ll be well on your way to breaking into the field.