Intelligence analysts work to protect the United States from international and domestic threats. They do this by piecing together bits of information to develop plans that deal with issues relating to national security and public safety. Intelligence analysts can come from various educational backgrounds, but in general they must be very good at research and data analysis.
Anne began working as an Intelligence Analyst six months ago. Because she is employed at a federal agency, she is not able to share as much information about her position as some of our previous interviewees. She does, however, give us a good look at what it took to get her where she is today.
How did you become interested in this field?
Writing and research were essential components of my education and previous jobs as a copyeditor and investigator at a due diligence firm. I wanted to continue writing and research, but became interested in switching over from private industry to the federal government.
What type of training or education best prepared you for your work as an intelligence analyst?
I earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in Journalism. My initial intentions were to write/report for a magazine or newspaper. I decided later that my skills and personality were better suited for more “behind the scenes” work.
What do you like most about your job?
I like that I’m challenged with learning new information almost every day and then tasked to use or apply that information appropriately.
What advice do you have for those who are interested in working in this field?
Using my own experience as an example, I think that regardless of what track you think you’re on post-college, there is time to shift your skillset and market it to pursue a different field that was not realized until later in life.
If you are interested in working for a federal agency as an intelligence analyst, be sure to check out the article: How to Become an FBI Agent.
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