HPS Insights: New Podcast Series On Finding A Job In DC

After a year of immeasurable uncertainty, soon-to-be graduates may feel daunted by the DC job search. That’s why HPS is launching a new HPS Insights series, “How To Get A Job In DC,” to demystify the steps students can take in making the leap into the professional world of Washington. 

In this four-part series, HPS Partner Matt McDonald sits down with a number of Beltway veterans to talk about how current college students can prepare for and thrive during their first DC job. Matt talks with public policy experts, executives, program directors, and our very own HPS associates on their experience and tricks of the trade. Conversations cover both how college students can set themselves up for success in the recruiting process and also how to succeed once hired. 

Our episodes are as follows:

Episode 1: How To Get A Job In DC – Preparing For The Working World At School

Matt sits down with job search experts from the Harvard Kennedy School, University of Michigan, and the Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy at the University of Virginia. Each guest shares advice on what campus resources current college students can tap into to prepare them for a post-grad world.

Episode 2: How To Get A Job In DC – Preparing The Perfect Resume

In this episode, we demystify the job application process with experts from Dartmouth who reveal how to translate your story into a compelling application. We discuss pitfalls into which students often fall – conceptualizing their resume as a summary, submitting cover letters that don’t demonstrate familiarity with the company, and more.

Episode 3: How to Get A Job In DC – The Insider’s Take On How To Network In DC

Next, Matt and his guests explore the process of networking to break down the all-important topic of relationship building and explain how young professionals can find their path forward in the murky world of DC careers. 

Episode 4: How To Get A Job In DC – Succeeding In Your First Job

In the final episode, Matt chats with three HPS associates, Cole Kline, Matisse Rogers, and Koby Gordon, about how to approach the beginning of your career and make the most out of your first job out of college. 

To learn more about navigating the job search, and preparing for an exciting career in the 202, tune in to the series here or on your favorite podcast service.