The sun is shining today, and after a few errands, I'm going hiking with mi novio. It's going to be a good day.
My highly awesome friend (of Tabbies in Tow fame) is headed to DC today to begin her career as an FSS-OMS. She's a BAMF in case anyone was wondering. I hope to catch up to her at post someday.
However, that is pending QEP. What phase will the moon be in when my file is reviewed? Will my file reach the bottom of the staircase first? Who will I have to thunderdome with to get what I want?
I write in jest, but the QEP is a heartwrenching stage in the FS hiring process. After each round, the rejected think "Why not me? Don't they know that I cured cancer? Don't they know that awesomeness pours from my butt?" In case of that last question, they should probably get that checked. At any rate, QEP can seem opaque. People get butthurt over the results, and it's hard to acknowledge that maybe, just maybe... the narratives weren't quite right. Or the application wasn't worded appropriately. Or the test scores weren't good enough.
You can speak three SCNLs and still be a tool, after all. That's just one part of the package.
I've failed the QEP once. It sucked, and I was not amused. However, most people I know in this process have failed the QEP at one point in time or another. Here's what is heartening--some of these people have gone on to PASS the QEP the second (or third) time around.
Anyway, the QEP is imminent. I've got my narratives written and revised, and I feel good about them. I'll look at them in another few days, but right now, I am letting my head clear. One thing I learned about writing is that it's good to let your work sit for a day or two. It gives the brain a chance to reset, and fresh eyes catch things tired eyes don't.
In the meantime, I will enjoy the sunshine.
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Good luck.
ReplyDeleteI took the FSOT for the first time back in October 2010, and did not pass.
I am looking forward to taking it again. After spending 2007-2010 overseas and working at the US Embassy for 2 of the years I believe working with the Dept. of State as a FSO would be a good fit.
I enjoyed working around the locals and officials, both Military and Diplomats.
Enjoy your blog, keep us posted!
Awwww.... you make me feel all hopeful and warmy inside reading that. The only thing that is good about being at FSI without you being here too, is that WHEN you're here - I get to live vicariously through the experience with you.
ReplyDelete-The Fourth Tabby (the hairless, unstriped one)