After a hectic last week of work and a really fast move to Arlington (all within the last 72 hours), I can officially say that I am an employee of the US Department of State. This morning, I took the Oath of Office, which is the last step of the hiring process. Once that’s over, you’re in, and I assume they’ll tell me where all the Area 51 aliens are buried in pretty short order (I mean what’s the point of getting a Top Secret security clearance without that sort of info???). Here is a photo of me with that freshly sworn-in look in my eyes.

It’s all still very surreal. A dream realized, but with a few bittersweet thoughts bubbling up. I really miss my family, and can’t imagine how folks lived away from their loved ones in a period without facetime. My coworkers also gave me a nice little going away lunch, and after 5 years of working with them and becoming a small family, it really was hard to leave. The same goes for all my family and friends. I’m ultimately still more excited and enthusiastic about this new opportunity, but it definitely remains the toughest decision I have made in my life since it has such a large halo effect on others. Thankfully, the hardest part, being away from my wife and kids, will be over relatively quickly.

On a lighter note, just a stones throw from my apartment is a plethora of great dining, museums, bars, parks, sporting events, and attractions. Coming from West Texas, it feels a little overwhelming, but in a good way. Sort of like there is so much I want to see and do, but I know I’m not going to have enough time. Speaking of my apartment, in addition to the location, the PCS lodging folks did a great job of providing me with a nice place that more than meets the needs of a temporary bachelor. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation joining the foreign service, I def recommend using this program versus trying to find a place yourself. Here’s a few pics:

As far as I can tell, the rest of the week involves getting all our accounts set up with IT, a few small group meetings, and overall just acclimating to the Foreign Service work environment. Honestly, the pace is really nice, especially after 2+ years of inpatient care, and I am enjoying giving my brain a little time to decompress. To celebrate getting sworn-in, the class is having a happy hour at a local bar, and I’m really looking forward to putting faces to all the people I’ve interacted with online in the whatsapp group.

In regards to this blog, my goal during orientation is to provide weekly recaps of what’s been going on during each work week, and continue to use this site as a means for information for any potential candidates. I can assure you, even after getting hired and sworn in, the fog isn’t magically lifted.

I think that’s enough rambling for today. Here’s to hopefully a long and fruitful career in the Foreign Service. Cheers!!!

–Nick