Differences Between the Public and Private Sectors
Public service is a noble cause that everyone should experience at some point in their lives. You instantly become aware of the impact of your contributions during public service. Everything you do affects your fellow Americans in some way. It can be motivating and humbling, but most importantly, it creates a strong feeling of pride to give back to the country in a small way.
As Abraham Lincoln said in the Gettysburg Address, our nation’s government is of the people, by the people, and for the people. You see this in action when you enter public service. The learning opportunities are expansive; you will gain an understanding of the budgetary process, the regulatory process, how laws are passed, the role of government oversight, the importance of checks and balances, and how money flows from the Treasury to the various recipients. You will see how all of this works in service to the American people.
Working in government touches all industries and offers an education in policy development, research, regulations, and budgets; you can become very educated on almost any business. Working in government will give you in-depth knowledge at an accelerated pace of almost any industry, and teach you a great deal about how the government operates.
For example—working at the Department of Housing and Urban Development offers an in-depth understanding of the real estate, housing, and mortgage industries. 
Moving Around
Once you are employed, moving around between different agencies or departments is not difficult. Many employees expand their experience by moving between the executive branch and the legislative branch. There are a plethora of opportunities for those eager to learn.
Government can be a good place to launch a career out of college or it can be a great place to enter public service at the end of a private-sector career. Experience in the executive branch of government could boost your resume tremendously at any point in your career. There are great opportunities to start a career fresh out of college; there are great opportunities for those so inclined (although unfortunately, this isn’t always the case).
If you spend part or all of your career as a government employee, you will earn a good income and retirement benefits, as well as high-quality insurance and other health benefits that may not be as good at other private sector companies.
