On March 17, 2025, new executive orders from President Donald Trump have caused concerns among college students and recent graduates, leading some to reconsider their prospective career paths. The orders have resulted in funding freezes and job cuts across federal agencies, impacting individuals like Natalie, a recent applicant to the U.S. Department of State’s Pathways Internship Program, which provides pathways into federal careers. Natalie, along with thousands of others, was informed that the program had been canceled, a decision triggered by the Trump administration’s recent policies.
These policy decisions have led many young individuals to rethink their future in federal government roles. Having previously interned with the Environmental Protection Agency and the State Department, Natalie is now considering opportunities with non-governmental organizations and on Capitol Hill instead. She conveyed to The Nation her declining interest in pursuing a federal government path, at least for the short term.
Similarly, Kye Benford, a political science freshman at Purdue University, is now more interested in state and local government work due to the perceived instability in federal positions, caused by recent purges and firings.
The rescinded hiring freeze, which initially started on January 28, resulted in the cancellation of numerous federal jobs, including many legal internships and entry-level jobs. Additionally, President Trump has dismantled several agencies and departments, like the U.S. Agency for International Development and the Department of Education, further contributing to job losses.
Critics argue that these actions might weaken the government’s role and foster public distrust toward federal employees. Furthermore, A. Benjamin Spencer, Dean of William and Mary Law School, expressed concerns regarding the appeal of federal jobs under the current circumstances, as several graduates from his institution lost job offers due to the hiring freeze and job cuts.
Reports also reveal that recent moves by the Trump administration have made the prospect of internships and entry-level job opportunities more challenging and uncertain for students, influencing their career decisions. Concerns over recent policies scrutinizing programs like Medicare, as highlighted by Mahir Rahman, a junior at Brown University, add to this unease.
The long-term impact of these cuts is predicted to reduce the interest and involvement of young people in the federal government—a possible aim of the current administration. Experts like Dr. Robin Jacob from the University of Michigan point out the importance of early work experiences in fostering interest in public services among young people.
Lynn Hastings, a student dreaming of becoming a federal judge, and Kye Benford expressed concerns about fairness and stability in federal government roles. Kye questioned both the possibility of securing a career in the sector and receiving fair treatment therein.
For international students like Aayushi Umbare, planning for a future career in the United States has become difficult under the current administration. Her story reflects the broader uncertainty faced by students and young professionals considering federal careers amid these recent executive actions.
The implications of diminished federal job opportunities could decrease youth participation and representation in the government, just as Professor Peter Levine suggested might necessitate a rebuilding of the civil service by future generations. Rebuilding the government could become a key opportunity for Generation Z, Levine proposed.
