U.S. Department of State accepting student applications

The U.S Department of State is now accepting applications for upcoming internships in numerous career fields.

The Department offers paid and un-paid internships to college students both domestic and abroad. Students have an opportunity to confront international issues, solve complex problems and serve as global ambassadors on behalf of America.

The State Department is the leading foreign affairs agency and is responsible for shaping a more secure and prosperous world through the formulation and implementation of foreign policy. Representing over 265 posts abroad, the Department is seeking young and talented leadership to help represent the interests of America in a significant way.

Due to a more competitive job market and tough economic times, more students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities have found stability in pursuing internships and careers with the Department of State.

Brian Fernando, 21, a recent alumnus from Fort Lauderdale, interned at the Bureau of Administration in D.C.

“Interning in with the State Department exposed me to a diversified professional atmosphere and stimulated my desire to be an agent for change through a global platform,” said Fernando.

Fernando is one of many FAMU students who have taken advantage of State Department internships and would encourage others to apply.

The internship program allows students to work at embassies, consulates and numerous posts in Washington,DC.

Dallas Gibson, 22, a senior philosophy student had the opportunity to work in the Bureau of International Narcotics and the Office of Budget Resource Management.

“As a student from FAMU, the internship gave me the confidence that I could compete with the best and brightest in the country,” said Gibson.

Kinesha O’Neil, 20, a junior finance student from Detroit, traveling abroad to help others is a life- long dream.

“I’m applying for a summer 2011 internship in China to gain experience in diverse societies and cultures. I look forward to interacting with the people and using my expertise to have a profound impact on the community where I am assigned,” said O’Neil.

Dhyana Ziegler, Ph.D a public member of the Foreign Service and a professor in the School of Journalism and Graphic Communication believes that a career with the State Department has priceless benefits.

“As a global leader, the opportunity to help people and serve your country is the epitome of success,” said Ziegler.

For more information, students can visit http://careers.state.gov/students/.