Careers and Internships

Students in Women’s and Gender Studies learn skills and develop knowledge to prepare them for multiple and varied careers and opportunities after they graduate. Many begin with a WGS 4910 Internship to get a sense of where to apply their skills. Some of these include:

• Communication through writing, reading, and verbal and nonverbal expression in classes and related activities

• Critical thinking in areas that include social justice, advocacy, and economic rights for all citizens

• Historical analysis of socio-economic, political, and cultural processes that shape our lives

• Self-confidence in your ability to contribute to society through creative expression, advocacy, and collaboration

Career planning and preparation

Looking for help in putting together the perfect resume or cover letter? Or maybe you are looking for an internship or even some mock interviews for an upcoming job? LAS Career Services can help you with all of these and more.

Career possibilities

Some of the jobs and professions in this field include:

• Human resources
• Marketing and public relations
• Health care
• Community organizations
• Government agencies
• Education
• Media specialties
• Research analysis

Internships

Explore these local and national organizations with feminist, justice, and equity are central pillars or our WGS students have interned in the past.

• Ames Pride 
• Assault Care Center Extending Shelter & Support (ACCESS) 
• Family Planning Council of Iowa
• Ames Public Library
• Eyes Open Iowa
• One Iowa
• ADVANCE Midwest Partnerships – Joining Forces Internship Opportunity

Once you’ve secured an internship, complete the application below:

• WGS Internship Application

Advice

Finally, here is some advice to students and graduates in women’s, gender, sexuality, and feminist studies …

• Think broadly about your career path … some jobs may not seem obvious (don’t limit your search), you have skills and experiences to fit many positions in today’s dynamic labor market
• Build your experiences and expertise outside the classroom – get involved in campus activities and groups, as well as community and other organizations that overlap with your interests (or maybe something you have never explored before!)
• Network, network, network … take advantage of social media and contacts through school, friends, and family to learn more about this field and to meet people. Attend conferences and seminars in this field.
• Apply yourself and work hard in everything you do … persevere and put yourself out there to build relationships and prepare for your future
• Finally, follow your passion!  Learn what makes you excited and passionate.  You can create a better sense of self and the world around you if you enjoy what you are doing.

Please contact us with questions or comments about employment and other opportunities in this area: wgs@iastate.edu.