No Foreign Service Offer Yet

Here's the latest news, as I explained to my immediate family (which is odd, since they're the only ones I can imagine would ever read this blog).

I was expecting calls to start going out the week of July 16 for the A-100 training class that starts in September. But for my track, Management, they went out the previous week. The bad news: they have much fewer spots than expected. They only have 6 slots for my track, and 3 of those will be filled with graduate interns. So that leaves only 3 slots to fill from the list of eligible hires. I'm #7, and I know that the third person who accepted was #5. Aargghh! So close!

So, as it stands now, I will need to wait for the next round: a call in September for the January class. However, I have seen in the last two classes that they either get more positions allocated or someone drops out, so a few of those who thought they'd have to wait until the next round got called at the last minute (OK, a few weeks before the class). In a way, that would be harder to have less notice - having to put the house up for sale, getting other instructors for the classes I'm teaching in fall, buying clothes - I have to wear a suit every day - although not necessarily black :-), etc. But I would still accept the offer, if given one, rather than try to defer to another class date.

On the bright side, that's 3 people ahead of me on the list that move off, causing me to move up a few spots on the list. I checked recently with the State Department Registrar's office and learned that I am now #5 on the list. However, because of deferrals or other reasons, I am probably second in line for a call, if they get more openings. So you just never know.

This whole process can get a bit frustrating, even to the point of wondering if it's possible or worth the effort. As Eric, in our Yahoo A-100 message group, put it when commenting about the new, more involved application process and the fact that they will remove your name from the list if you decline two offers:

"1. Now, in addition to spending hours completing test registration (which requires contact-able references to back up individual anecdotes!)

2. In addition to taking a three-hour written test...

3. In addition and flying yourself to a full-day interview (at your own expense!) where the stated likelihood of passing is less than 1 in 5...

4. And then submitting to layers of documentation to clear medicals and security, with no consistent timeline... (During all of which you have no clear assurance of success or feedback on your standing...)

5. Once State finally decides you're good enough, they plunk you on the register.

But there's no hiring schedule. Just a couple of dates with no intake numbers associated...

So you just sort of fiddle around, wondering if buying the house, having the kid, starting the degree, or taking the promotion is a good idea...

AND THEN... the little red phone rings. You have exactly four days to decide.

And if the answer is yes, you may or may not have four-to-six weeks to close down your existing professional career.

What a joke! If this is the kind of flexibility State shows to new recruits, imagine how they treat those who are already beholden to the Machine!"

An interesting perspective. But I'm still on board... still hoping... and waiting. As they say around here: "Let 'er buck!"