What skills, abilities, and training do government offices look for?
Government employers look for the same set of skills and abilities that are required in the private sector, depending upon which career field interests you. As with other fields, prior internships or other work experience with government agencies is helpful. A BA degree from Amherst College is considered excellent training for a wide variety of entry level professional positions within government because of all that a liberal arts education gives you – oral and written communication skills, computer skills, the ability to analyze and evaluate and research skills. For specific training requirements, you will need to read individual position descriptions within the agencies you are targeting and address each requirement fully in your application.