Careers in Intelligence: A Conversation with CIA Case Officers
Written by Dean’s Ambassador, Myla Indigaro (CAS ‘26).
On September 17, 2025, the Pardee School of Global Studies welcomed two former CIA officers to speak with students at the “CIA Information Session and Networking Reception.” In a discussion moderated by Professor John Woodward, two CIA recruiters shared with their insights gained from working a career in intelligence.
The panelists highlighted the CIA’s mission in three points: to collect foreign intelligence from human sources abroad, analyze classified and open-source material to inform U.S. policymakers, and to conduct covert action in support of national security interests.
The mission itself is not secret, the former officer explained, but how we carry it out – and who helps us – is.
Speakers went on to describe the five distinct directorates within the Agency:
- Analysis: Experts in the subject matter who research, write, and inform policymakers
- Digital Innovation: Cybersecurity specialists who assess and fortify global communication systems
- Science and Technology: Engineers who design cutting-edge tools to aid in covert actions
- Support: Professionals specialized in resource management, supply chain, medicine, or finance, which allow the organization to function effectively
- Operations: Case officers who recruit and manage assets to gather intelligence.
Both speakers emphasized the importance of effective intelligence. The work relies less on “Hollywood-style” spy missions, but building genuine relationships based on trust. Motivations for foreign partners to share top-secret information vary, and it is essential for case officers to combine patience and cultural sensitivity to succeed.
The recruiters moved to share advice in preparing for a career in the field. Both speakers emphasized the importance of speaking not only about why an applicant is drawn to the CIA’s mission, but how their unique skill set aligns with the agency’s needs in their personal statement. Language proficiency, cross-cultural understanding, leadership, and problem-solving skills are extremely valuable, but applicants must go a step further to provide the context under which said skills were built.
Students respond enthusiastically to the recruiters’ advice. Clara Neal (CAS ‘27) noted the discussion was “really informative, and gave me a lot to think about for future career options – as well as the importance of developing soft skills.”
The event spotlighted the agency’s hidden work culture; despite the seriousness of the subject, panelists used humor throughout the session to make the audience smile. As one student put it, “the spirit, professionalism, and the love for the mission and the Agency is really nice to see. Those are the kind of people I’d want to work with.”
The information and networking session gave students an honest look into the realities of a career in the CIA, opening the door to pursuing careers in intelligence, and raising new questions about what it means to serve in one of the United States’ most esteemed and crucial organizations. Behind every covert mission are people driven by purpose, reminding us that curiosity and passion are the first steps towards meaningful service.
The application process for both internships and full-time positions takes about a year. Interested students can apply directly through cia.gov.