The recent federal work changes are having a significant effect on SIS students and alumni. For those seeking support please view the "Navigating Uncertainty: Resources & Support" document, the resources below, and our list of "Additional Resources" on the right-hand side of this webpage.

If you've recently been laid off, furloughed, or had an opportunity rescinded, we'd love to help. Please email us (siscareer@american.edu) for a list of current job opportunities sourced by our community as well as other resources. 

How to Prepare for Potential Termination:

The American Foreign Service Association has compiled a checklist and resources, or a "virtual go bag," to help individuals prepare in case of sudden departure from the workplace and/or restrictions on returning to the workplace. See their to learn more.

Where to Find Available Jobs:

  • Check our where we post opportunities multiple times daily (request to join if you’re not already a member, and be sure SIS is on your LinkedIn profile)Ìý
  • Check our job boards in areas of interest (scroll down to Explore Job and Internship Opportunities), including the Washington Information Directory with comprehensive information on federal agencies and nongovernmental organizations in the DC area.

Resources for Workers Impacted by Federal Changes:

This includes a variety of resources, tools, and support for those laid off, furloughed, or generally impacted by federal work changes. View this document for information on:

  • Unemployment benefits in the DMV,
  • Career sector transition advice and resources,
  • Public service organizations to consider in lieu of federal government, and more.

Q: What happens to your security clearance during a government hiring freeze? explains this and much more. 

Relevant Events:

  • Find our full schedule of spring events here, which we’re constantly updating 
  • Highlighted events connected to the federal hiring freeze:  
    • Tuesday 4/15: “Where are Opportunities in Development and Social Impact Right Now?†Hosted by SIS Office of Career Development (4-5pm ET; Virtual – )Ìý

    • Tuesday 4/15: “Pathways to Opportunity: Careers in International Affairs, Business, Technology, AI, and Trade.†Hosted by Association of Professional Schools in International Affairs (APSIA) (2-3pm ET; Virtual – )

Other Tools and Potential Connections:

  • – articles on her previous transition out of federal government and offer to support friends seeking new roles 
  • , Senior Program Manager, Training & Community Development at Global Ties U.S., offers those she’s worked with in the past to reach out for support  
  • , Development and Operations Coordinator at the German Marshall Fund, shares 14 organizations hiring and offers connection and support

Paid and Discounted Services: 

  1. 3 FREE career coaching sessions for impacted federal workers – Fill out this to learn more and be matched with a coach.   
  2. FREE resume review, consultations, and discounted career writing resources from writing service company, by (Â鶹Æƽâ°æ BA’12 alum)Ìý
    1. Please reach out to Nazran with further inquiries: nazranbaba@your-writer.com; 443-805-8433.
  3. 10% off career coaching services for Â鶹Æƽâ°æ alum/students from  (SIS MA'09 alumna), founder of , a global coaching and community building practice offering career support for women and non-binary folks. Please note, this discounted offer runs now until May 2025. 
  4. : Hub for career, leadership/executive, and specialty coaching for the social impact global dev sector. 
  5. Friend of SIS  offers executive coaching after 14 years at the World Bank/IFC. With over 25 years of leadership experience and ICF-accredited certification, she specializes in helping executives and professionals unlock their full potential. Her coaching approach is designed to foster self-awareness, gain goal clarity, and elevate your leadership style—empowering people to achieve meaningful goals and navigate complex challenges effectively. 

    Beyond leadership growth, she also specializes in career decision-making and strategic career planning. Whether you're at a crossroads, considering a leadership transition, or looking to define your next career move, she provides the insights and support to help you make confident choices, chart a clear path forward, and create a career that aligns with your aspirations. Her coaching approach is results driven, yet deeply personal, designed to help you grow, thrive, and drive meaningful change.

    1. Coaching packages range from 3-12 months. Email VANDANADAS@GMAIL.COM for a free 15-minute discovery call.

The development field has been affected especially hard. As such, we've pulled together resources specific to your field. 

Where to Find Available Jobs

  • (Job Board and Talent Network)
  • Follow - His weekly job roundups in impact are extensive. He is currently gathering resources specifically for those impacted by the USAID freeze. The comments section is also filled with people who want to help.

Other Resources

  • Watch a litigation tracker for USAID Freeze Lawsuits (continuously updated)Ìý
  • Consider paid support from , a hub for career, leadership/executive, and specialty coaching for the social impact global development sector

Impacted by Recent Federal Work Changes?

Need job search support or unsure how this impacts you? Come see us in drop-in advising or contact us at siscareer@american.edu.

Navigating Uncertainty: Resources & Support against a dark background with the SIS Building.