This is the first installment in our “Gov 101” series where we will focus on topics like working on political campaigns and working in local & state government. Customize your weekly On TRACC email by selecting the “Government” tag under Career Communities to continue receiving these sorts of posts.
Have you ever wondered what it’s really like to work on a local campaign or how to get started? Here are my 3 favorite takeaways from the Second Day Political Campaign Career Guide :
1. You’ll learn a lot and gain real world experience & skills in one campaign season.
Local campaigns move fast and depend on small teams, so interns and volunteers get real responsibility — organizing events, managing outreach lists, even leading volunteer shifts. You’ll quickly build confidence and transferable skills.
2. You don’t need connections — just show up.
Most people get their first campaign job by volunteering. Campaigns love locals who care about the community, can connect with voters, and show they’re dependable.
3. Campaigns are intense — but they open big doors.
Campaigns can be unpredictable and full of long days, but you’ll meet incredible people, learn how elections work behind the scenes, and gain experience that can lead to roles in government, advocacy, or communications.
💼 Keywords to use when looking for campaign-related internships or entry-level roles:
- Field Organizer / Field Intern: Focuses on voter contact, canvassing and event coordination
- Communications or Digital Media Intern: Helps manage social media, draft posts, & communicate campaign messages
- Finance / Fundraising Intern: Assists with donor research, event planning, and contribution tracking
- Community Outreach Intern: Builds relationships with local organizations, volunteers, and community leaders
- Data or Operations Assistant: Works on voter data entry, scheduling and logistics to keep the campaign running smoothly
Want to Hear What It’s Really Like?
Reach out to alumni in The Herd who’ve worked on campaigns — they’re often happy to share advice and connections! It’s helpful to chat with people at all experience levels, from seasoned professionals to recent graduates. The variety in perspectives will give you a better sense for options across one’s career ‘lifespan.’
Jessica Lieberman — Class of 2017, Campaign Advisor at New Politics; former political campaign manager
Brenna Olrich — Class of 2019, Field Organizer: Michigan Coordinated Campaign – Biden for President
Cathy Breen — Class of 1987, expert on electoral campaigns & more!
You can also experiment and learn more by getting involved in Tufts student organizations, including local civic and political action groups, to build leadership skills, engage with important issues, and contribute to your community.
