On our first day of A-100 we swore in quickly as a formality, so we could get paid. This afternoon, though, after five weeks of orientation, we gathered at Main State for a swearing in with more pomp and circumstance. … Continue reading
See the red circle around Cotonou, Benin’s capital. More fun facts: Though Benin looks like a tiny sliver of a country, it’s actually about the size of Pennsylvania. Benin is one of the most politically stable countries in Africa. The … Continue reading
After a year of testing, months of security clearances, lots of waiting and a few weeks of A-100, the day we’ve been long anticipating finally arrived: Flag Day. In case you somehow managed to avoid my incessant talking (and worrying) … Continue reading
I’ll be learning French for a Public Diplomacy job in Cotonou, Benin! It was our top choice, so we’re thrilled! More details to come…
As flag day is upon us, I reflect on our bidding experience. Continue reading
The DNA results are in: I’m not part basset hound (like everybody thinks), just a fat beagle. I still don’t understand why my owners needed to poke my mouth to find this out, though. That was annoying. And besides, haven’t … Continue reading
I’ve written a lot about the receiving the bid list, ranking each post and awaiting my fate on Flag Day. In fact, I’ve written so much about those things that you might assume getting my assignment is all A-100 is … Continue reading
As you may recall, two weeks ago we received a list of about 100 available jobs at embassies and consulates around the globe — the “bid list,” in Foreign Service speak. (Amazingly, there’s no acronym for this one.) After much … Continue reading
I made this pledge my first day on the job: “I ________, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic, that I will bear true faith and … Continue reading
It’s been two weeks, but with the arrival of our unaccompanied baggage to our apartment in DC, it is finally time for the recap of our big pack out. Continue reading