Hi All,

I’m looking for advice on how to rebuild my career in the US.

Context

• I don't need work sponsorship.
• I have a Bachelor's Degree in Law and Political Science and a Master's in Political Science, but my degrees are from outside the US (Latin America).
• Experience: Tax Law, Immigration Law, Due Diligence, Elections monitoring/analysis, and teaching at both high school and college levels.
• Currently working as a leasing agent to save money in case I need to pay for certifications or courses.

Dream job

I would love to work in an NGO, think tank, or government role focused on public policy, program evaluation, or social impact. Open to entry-level or associate-level roles to get US experience.

Questions

1. Do I need a WES or ECE evaluation for Policy/NGO roles, or do US employers in this sector usually accept foreign degrees as-is?
2. With a Law + PoliSci background but no US bar license, what roles should I search for?
3. Are fellowships realistic for someone with foreign credentials? Any others I should look at for career pivoters?
4. Besides LinkedIn and Idealist, where do NGOs and think tanks actually post entry-level policy jobs?
5. Would a certificate in Program Evaluation, Data Analysis for Policy, or Paralegal help, or should I save my money?
6. Any recommendations for Policy/NGO meetups, associations, or events in the Bay Area for newcomers?

I’m based in the Bay Area but open to remote. Not asking for referrals, just hoping to learn from others who rebuilt their careers here with foreign degrees.

Any advice?