Jobs in Global Health: Entry Level, Final Post

by Jessica Pickett · 2009-04-29 09:59:00 UTC
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(Sometimes the job hunt feels like this. Photo credit: joiseyshowaa)

Throughout the proces you have to keep things in perspective - I always say that the goal is to just find a decent first job that will help position you for an ideal second job a year or two later. It also contains a large element of trial and error to help you find your niche; in my opinion, it's much better to explore different fields through professional experience before committing to graduate school, since the best school for you will likely depend on how your academic interests and professional aspirations evolve over time. (The possible exception is students who realized their passion for global health late in the game and lack any relevant studies or experience, in which case it may be worth exploring a one-year introductory MSc degree.)

All of this is based on my own relatively limited experience, though, and that of my many friends and colleagues in this field. What have you found helpful when looking for global health jobs? Please share your own advice in the comments!

editor's note: I agree completely with Jessica on the importance of looking for a decent first job, not one that's perfect. My first global health job was a program assistant position while I was in grad school. The second was an unpaid internship. The program assistant job helped me get the internship, and the internship led to pretty much every job I have had ever since.

Jessica Pickett
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