United States Secret Service Student Volunteer Program: Requirements and Opportunities

The United States Secret Service Student Volunteer Service Program offers a unique opportunity for high school and college students to gain firsthand experience in a prominent law enforcement organization. This unpaid, academic-related program allows students to explore career options in law enforcement, particularly in areas related to public administration, political science, and law.

Program Overview

The Secret Service Student Volunteer Service Program is designed to provide students with valuable work experience and exposure to the inner workings of a federal law enforcement agency. Participants are expected to volunteer a minimum of 12 hours per week for at least one semester, two quarters, or a summer session.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

To be eligible for the Secret Service Student Volunteer Service Program, applicants must meet certain criteria and complete a comprehensive application process. While specific requirements may vary, general guidelines include:

Enrollment in an Accredited Institution

Applicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university, or in high school. The institution must be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Academic Standing

Students must maintain student eligibility and enrollment for the duration of the internship. If they cannot, they are ineligible for this program. Academic transcripts demonstrating that applicants meet the eligibility requirements must be submitted. Failure to provide sufficient academic documentation will render the application incomplete and ineligible.

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Skills

Applicants should possess strong written, research, and oral communication skills.

Application Package

A complete application package typically includes the following items:

Resume
Vacancy question responses
Official and unofficial transcripts
Cover Letter
OI-260, Student Volunteer Service Agreement
OI-260a, Student Volunteer Service Program - Institution Agreement

All components of the application package must be submitted at the same time.

Citizenship

All program participants must be United States citizens.

Program Structure and Opportunities

The Student Volunteer Service Program provides students with the opportunity to augment the workforce. Students gain valuable work experience, apply their educational knowledge to the real workforce, and offer fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to problems.

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The program will focus on providing students substantive work experience in functions related to Investigations, Computer Forensics & Technology, and Mission Support.

Investigations: Support activities related to current OI investigations including data gathering activities regarding alleged fraud, waste, or abuse in HHS programs.

Computer Forensics & Technology: Examination of electronic evidence related to allegations under investigation, as well as managing OI information systems and identifying and implementing new technologies to increase efficiency of operations.

Mission Support: Many different functions must be performed to support OI.

Application Process and Timeline

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis; however, students are encouraged to apply at least one month before the beginning of the school semester. Generally, students will be placed before the beginning of the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Complete applications received by Headquarters will be reviewed to ensure all program criteria are met. All eligible candidates will be referred to the nearest OI regional office for further consideration and possible interview.

Applicants will be interviewed at the OI office located nearest to the student. Official notification of acceptance into the program will be provided by the regional recruitment point of contact.

Additional Opportunities within Federal Agencies

While the Secret Service Student Volunteer Service Program is a specific avenue for gaining experience, other federal agencies also offer similar opportunities for students and recent graduates. These programs provide pathways for individuals to explore careers in public service and gain valuable skills.

Pathways Program

The Pathways Program is designed for students and recent graduates seeking enriching work experience in the federal government. It comprises three main components:

Internship Program: Offers internship and summer employment opportunities to students enrolled in a wide variety of educational institutions, from high school to graduate level. Students who successfully complete the program may be eligible for conversion to a permanent job in the civil service.
Recent Graduates Program: Provides recent college graduates with developmental experiences in the Federal Government, promoting possible careers in civil service. To be eligible, applicants must apply within two years of degree or certificate completion (with exceptions for veterans).
Presidential Management Fellows Program: A two-year, paid program designed to develop future leaders committed to excellence in the leadership and management of public policies and programs. The program is highly competitive and candidates must be nominated by their graduate program’s dean, director, or chair.

CDC Student Worksite Experience Program (SWEP)

The CDC Student Worksite Experience Program (SWEP) offers high school and college students non-paid, educationally related work opportunities. Students can gain practical experience by engaging in projects and tasks that contribute to their professional development. Students volunteer for a maximum of six months (180 days) during the academic school year or summer months. A wide variety of volunteer opportunities are available, from administrative and program support, to research- related projects. Students can earn academic credit for work assignments (at the school’s discretion).

Thurgood Marshall College Foundation/CDC Ambassador and Internship Program

The Thurgood Marshall College Foundation/CDC Ambassador and Internship Program is designed to increase interest in public health careers among minority students, and to increase minority representation in mission critical occupations at CDC and the public health workforce. The program seeks to promote CDC as a preferred employer. Student ambassadors work at their campuses and in their communities to actively promote public service and public health among their peers as a means of making a positive difference.

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