By David Reinhold, AOL Government

As college students, we keep hearing that "times are tough." In the midst of economic uncertainty, we are studying hard, networking and trying to keep our resumes fresh. We want to work, and for those of us with a passion for public service, the government is our first choice for employment. The problem is that government employment might not be available.

GovLoop member, Amanda Parker, recently completed her Master's of Public Policy program. Through sacrifice and dedication to her work -- and what Parker admits was a stroke of good luck -- she secured an internship that she called her "dream job" at a federal agency. Alas, due to budget constraints, she's afraid her agency won't be able to convert her to a full-time employee upon completion.

-- Read the full story on AOL Government