• Politics is one of the oldest professions, having been practiced since Greek and Roman times more than 2,000 years ago. A career as a politician involves a lot of hard work and a thick skin—and usually winning at least one election.

• Although doctors, scientists and teachers can be and have been politicians, a law degree is considered the most useful and relevant degree to politics.

A law degree is good practice for eventually making laws as a legislator, and there are also several political appointments that require a law degree. Historically, the vast majority of American presidents have been lawyers.

• Although there are about a half-dozen political parties that run candidates in any given election, the fact is that Republicans and Democrats make up 99% of the political landscape.

Look into the beliefs of each party and some of its most prominent members to decide which party best represents your political outlook. Then, become a registered member of that party and make sure to vote on a regular basis.

• Politicians are scrutinized at a level above and beyond that of the normal citizen. Campaigns have been stalled and promising political careers ended over scandals involving drug abuse, infidelity, dishonesty, or even simple tax errors or speaking blunders. Strive to keep yourself and your record as clean as possible to avoid giving an opponent fodder for a future campaign attack ad.

Volunteers are always needed for the political campaigns of both new and established politicians. Volunteering can get you face time with a candidate and allow you to impress them with your dedication and work ethic. Often, volunteers are rewarded with jobs or appointments if the candidate wins the campaign. However, if your candidate loses the election, your volunteer time may become less directly helpful in getting into politics.

• Politicians at the federal, state, and local level need to hire people for a variety of tasks, from speaking with constituents to researching public policy. If you have the appropriate skills, you can get paid to work for a legislator, congressman or representative. If you are a student with an impeccable record, you could also be eligible for a position as a legislative page in high school or a legislative intern in college.

• Most congressmen and representatives first held office at the city or state levels of government. Often, starting your political career at the bottom provides the pathway for you to work your way to the top.

• Obtaining the strongest credentials and background in politics possible is a great start, but eventually you will likely have to throw your hat in the ring and actually run for office. Most politicians get their jobs by being voted in, so how and when you go about establishing that first campaign is crucial. Deciding when to run can be hard for even the most seasoned veterans, so keep a sharp eye out for the perfect opportunity at either the state or local level.

Whether you are a lawyer or teacher, a student or scientist, you can have a career in politics with a lot of hard work and dedication. Perhaps you'll never be president, but you may be able to hold local office or contribute to the political process in any number of other satisfying ways.

•