A-100 Orientation: I’m Going To Be A Diplomat!
A-100 Orientation: I’m Going To Be A Diplomat!
I confirmed my tentative date for A-100.
Oh. My. Goodness. Things. Just. Got. Real. Seriously.
A-100 is the orientation for new Foreign Service Officers (FSO). From what I understand, you are basically on-boarded. You receive a ton of information about the State Department and being an FSO. And…you get the coveted bid list.
The bid list is one thing I am looking forward to. It’s a list of countries that have job openings. When you get this list, you rank your preferences and then your Career Development Officer (CDO) determines where you’re going. You find out on Flag Day…
The day that determines your life for the next 2-3 years.
Dun, dun, dun.
Although I have not experienced Flag Day, in my head, it seems like an episode of the Price is Right…except you bid beforehand.
Anyways, from what I hear, your colleagues, family, and friends are gathered in a large room. A presenter calls your name and your assigned country’s flag appears on a large screen in front of everyone.
Then…as the announcer on Price is Right would say…come on down!
Some people jump for joy, others break out in a sweat and hives. It all depends. Either way, no matter the country, it is a privilege.
You then receive a miniature flag.
I am so excited! I wonder where I will be for my first tour!
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