Government Fellowship Program Accepting Applications

Graduate students interested in public service should start requesting transcripts, because the Presidential Management Fellowship program is now accepting applications for the class of 2012, the Office of Personnel Management announced this week.

The two-year program, which began in 1977, works with more than 80 agencies and brings in top advanced degree candidates into the federal workforce.

"The Presidential Management Fellowship is the premier pathway for graduate students to enter Federal service," OPM Director John Berry said in a press release. "We need every type of professional -- accountants, cybersecurity experts, engineers, and many more -- in addition to our great public affairs and public administration students. PMFs can make a big impact quickly."

As the PMF program plays a role in attracting future leadership to the federal workforce, Berry has worked to reinvigorate the program. In 2010, he created "power packs"-- teams of fellows who worked to improve all aspects of the program, from orientation sessions to alumni relations.

OPM will accept applications through Sept. 25.