Here are some things you can do in your 20s to prepare for a government job or higher education and achieve success:

1. Start networking. Get to know people who work in your desired field, both inside and outside of government. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the more likely you are to hear about job openings and get your foot in the door.
2. Get involved in your community. Volunteering is a great way to gain experience, make connections, and learn about different government agencies. It can also help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in a government job.
3. Get good grades. If you’re planning on going to graduate school, your undergraduate GPA will be important. Even if you’re not planning on going to graduate school, good grades will make you more competitive for government jobs.
4. Take the necessary exams. Many government jobs require you to pass a written exam. Some also require you to pass a physical exam or a background check. Make sure you know what exams you need to take and start studying early.
5. Get certified. There are many certifications available that can make you more competitive for government jobs. Some of these certifications are industry-specific, while others are more general. Do some research to find out which certifications are most relevant to your field and pursue them.
6. Build your skills. In addition to getting certified, there are many other ways to build your skills. Take online courses, attend workshops, and read books and articles about your field. The more skills you have, the more valuable you will be to employers.
7. Be persistent. It can take time to land a government job or get into a good graduate school. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get what you want right away. Keep applying for jobs and keep working hard. With hard work and perseverance, you will eventually achieve your goals.

Here are some additional tips for success in government jobs:

• Be a team player. Government jobs often require you to work with others to achieve common goals. Be willing to collaborate and share ideas.
• Be adaptable. Government jobs can be unpredictable. Be prepared to change your plans and adapt to new situations.
• Be ethical. Government employees are held to high standards of ethics. Be honest and trustworthy in all your dealings.
• Be professional. Government employees represent their agencies to the public. Dress and act professionally at all times.

I hope these tips help you achieve success in your 20s.