BGHS.NEWS

Non-academic careers in politics and political education

On 22 January, the BGHS office held an online event on non-academic careers in politics and political education. Three BGHS alumni who work in these fields talked about their exciting work and their path into this professional field. The speakers were Franziska Wittau, head of the Thuringia State Agency for Political Education, Christian Ulbricht, head of the Regional Centre for Democratic Culture Vorpommern-Greifswald, and Simon Lange, parliamentary group leader of the CDU in the Bielefeld City Council. Above all, they provided valuable tips for doctoral researchers (and students) who are interested in these fields.

The advice could be summed up under the motto: Academia is not the (whole) world – even if it may seem that way when you are intensely focused on your doctoral research. However, it is not outside the world either, but the three alumni agreed that it is wise to broaden your horizons during your doctoral studies and read up on many different topics. This is because you may not have the time for this later in your professional life. Then it is important to be able to draw on a solid foundation of knowledge in order to quickly gain an overview of topics and make decisions.

Politics and political education always involve power games. However, the alumni encouraged us that this can be learned in everyday work. It is advantageous to find mentors or role models for support. Networking can also help find the way and get started in these professional fields. They recommend sticking the nose out of the bubble of university and the BGHS and orienting yourself outside during the doctorate. Gaining prior experience, for example by organising a workshop in the field of political education or finding a voluntary position, can help you start your career. This is because competition is fierce, especially for coveted positions in the civil service. Many positions are project-based at independent organisations and are therefore temporary and often not well paid. However, it can be worthwhile to take on such a position in order to gain professional experience and be at the forefront of the race for the next position that becomes available.

Don't be put off by these challenges, which are reminiscent of those in academia. The stories of Franziska, Christian and Simon show that these professional fields are definitely not boring and offer great opportunities for personal and socio-political development.