Sean Beebe, PhD '20, History
Presidential Management Fellow at FEMA
Can you describe your career path to your current job and some of your responsibilities in this position?
Identifying my larger career direction was initially challenging. I focused primarily on academic jobs and probably didn't seriously start taking action about career development until it was almost too late. Graduating in the midst of a pandemic added to the difficulty. However, I had an interest in public service, which became my primary focus. Over a year after graduating, I successfully applied to the Presidential Management Fellows Program, a federal initiative that recruits recent or soon-to-be graduates with master’s degrees or doctorates. As a finalist, I competed for specially designated positions across federal agencies and eventually secured a position at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). At FEMA, I work on improving and supporting internal readiness, ensuring that FEMA has the resources needed to respond effectively when disasters occur.
What services and/or resources did you use at Brandeis for your career search?
At Brandeis, I consulted with GSAS Professional Development staff, attended workshops on professional development, and utilized online resources about diverse career paths.
What skills from your Brandeis degree have you found most valuable in your current work?
As a historian, the ability to appreciate and draw connections between small details and the bigger picture has been tremendously useful. Additionally, the time management skills I developed while juggling research, writing, teaching responsibilities, and other jobs remain valuable. The written and oral communication skills I gained at Brandeis have also been essential in my role at FEMA.
What advice do you have for current students as they embark on their job search?
Start early and keep an open mind about different possibilities. Even when finishing my dissertation, I never imagined I’d end up at FEMA, let alone enjoy working there. Being willing to say yes to opportunities, especially those outside your comfort zone, helps you explore and understand your interests, ultimately guiding you to the right path.