The issues economic officers work on are different in each embassy, but typical portfolios in the economic section include macro-economic...

Diplomats in the US Foreign Service work in one of five career tracks. Even though they’re called generalists—which means they can work...

It’s a common question by FS-wannabes: what should I read to prepare for the Foreign Service exams (the FSOT and the FSOA)? In my...

How do you buy a beautiful oriental carpet for a great price? That’s the question most diplomats have when they’re posted anywhere...

I recently got a question from a student about how to join the Foreign Service. It inspired me to look at the application process from...

I just realized I enjoy clubbing more now than I have for a long time. It’s almost like when I was in my early twenties, when I’d just...

What is it like to live in a country that was once part of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR)? Armenia is my first experience...

Yup, still vegan! Here’s an overview of the most common questions I get: Is it hard to be a vegan living abroad (in the Foreign Service)?...

In the diplomatic world R&R stands for “relax & relaxation.” The term is borrowed from the military and is used to talk about our annual...

I’m not a good driver. I’m nervous, inexperienced, and I have no sense of direction. That’s why I avoid driving whenever possible. Every...

Ah, the Marine Ball. Every year embassy employees get the opportunity to dress up and celebrate the US Marine Corps with a ceremony,...

Many diplomats are quick to point out that their lifestyles aren’t as glamorous as they sound. They much rather talk about the downsides...

It’s no secret that I love living in Armenia. Wonderful people, interesting history, fresh food, low prices, sunny weather, and the...

Volunteering is an integral part of expat life. Expats often have opportunities to help the local population because they have knowledge,...

As I'm writing this post, I’ve been waiting for a security clearance determination for 18 months. From the day I passed the Foreign...

ARENI CAVE My first trip to Areni was mostly focused on wine tasting and pottery baking (in Sisian). This time I went to Areni, which is...

One tricky thing about being an expat is adjusting to new food every time you move. It might not be the most serious or emotional part of...

I always argue in favor of learning the local language if you’re going to live somewhere new—especially if you’re going to be there for...

For most diplomats, the summer is “bidding season,” which means applying for new assignments. FSOs typically bid one year out, every two...

Once you’ve decided to (try to) become a diplomat—a generalist Foreign Service Officer for the US Department of State—the first thing you...