Just a Few More Days

I'm getting excited/nervous. I finished my Statement of Interest tonight. Here it is:

I want to join the Foreign Service to serve my country. I desire to be a Foreign Service Officer to assist fellow citizens, advocate a positive message of democracy and free markets, and to maintain the United States’ world leadership role. I am ready to undertake these tasks and am eager to serve alongside some of our nation’s best and brightest people while contributing to the work achieved by a long line of eminent diplomats before me.

As a teenager, I spent a week in Washington, DC visiting the many monuments, museums, and government offices that were an integral part of my primary education. As I toured, I listened to the guides, read the provided literature, and I realigned my aspirations. I realized that success is not a large corner office, an obscene expense account, or a fancy car. I determined success comes from committed service to country, betterment of the global community, and furtherance of democracy and capitalism. I want that success.

The Foreign Service affords its officers the opportunity to promote United States interests, advance foreign trade, and assist United States citizens abroad. Management Officers promulgate diplomacy by maintaining the compliant and efficient operations of an embassy or consulate. The Foreign Service provides the type of success that eludes me.

My experience in management and leadership roles throughout my career suits the management role well. I earned bachelor’s degrees in accounting and marketing and will complete my master’s degree in accounting in June. Through my studies I learned and practiced the fundamentals in management of people and organizations. I furthered my education with real world experience managing in organizations ranging from small start-ups to Fortune 100 companies. I enjoy the opportunities and challenges that management provides and I consistently provide evidence of my ability to take initiative and lead projects to successful conclusions.

These skills and experience translate directly to the Foreign Service. I strive to work in a challenging environment with others who are also motivated and accomplished. I relish working with people of diverse backgrounds and cultures because each point of view provides me with a learning opportunity. I am prepared to apply my knowledge, drive, passion, and resources to advance the mission of the United States Department of State. I want to be a Foreign Service Officer to make a positive impact in the lives of fellow Americans. I want to contribute to the mission of diplomacy and; indeed, I possess the skills, attributes, and motivation to provide well-thought and constructive management to the mission of the United States abroad.