While most academic institutions prepare their students for academic careers, other viable options include joining the public service. Approximately 20 percent of federal employees have a master's degree, professional degree, or doctorate, and about one in four American Nobel laureates have been federal employees. This panel discusses how to become a Middle East Expert at the U.S. Department of State and to work on high priority issues that impact diplomacy, security, and development in the world, including human rights, environment, energy, food security, public health, and technology – all while experiencing a unique career opportunity. The panel will examine the various career opportunities and challenges to joining the foreign service (FSO) or the civil service and the pathways programs for students.