There are thousands of jobs with federal agencies across the board that have funding for student programs, most of which you may qualify for and may not know it. Books such as, Student Federal Career Guide, databases, internet, newspapers, and magazines are all sources filled with information that will help guide you to your dream job.

Although college career centers, workshops, and job fairs are good, frankly getting a career in the federal government isn’t always advertised in these college fairs. Most of these centers and job fairs contract with certain companies and get free advertising. For example, while attending Oral Roberts University, our college job fairs would consist of companies such as Bank of Oklahoma, Bank of Tulsa, or other local companies and agencies. You can’t wait until the company comes to you through a job fair. If you want to have a government career, after the research is done, you have to make the calls and begin networking.

"You are not alone"- Do not be afraid to ask for help. There are thousands of Airman and Family Readiness Centers on local military bases and installations that can help you with your resume, financial questions, and other information. Geilenkirchen Airman Family Readiness Center helped me with my federal resume, which led me to obtain a job with DCMA. Network and ask for help from those in the career field you are interested in. Ask for resume tips, tips on finding the right job and location, as well as interview tips.

We live in an age where people think they know it all, but there’s always room for gaining knowledge. Find somebody that will take you under their wing and show you the "in and outs of the game", someone who can show you the right steps to take. This will be IMPERATIVE to your future in the government.

You simply never know how many people will be applying for the same position that you apply for, and more importantly how many people are more qualified than you. If you are set on one particular position, grade, or series, then apply to multiple locations. Applying to multiple locations allows for more options and opportunities.

Obtaining a government job can be a lengthy process depending on the application process, i.e. automated, hard copy, etc. The average waiting time can be anywhere from a few months to a year. It is all contingent upon the mission, need, and funding for that particular agency. Find things to occupy your time in the mean time, temporary job, volunteer work, or anything that will boost your resume.

Getting a job with government can be time consuming and sometimes frustrating when you run into dead ends and are waiting to hear back from agencies, but relax and take a deep breath. There are thousands of federal jobs out there and the right one is waiting on you!