Myanmar is still recovering from the devastating earthquake that occurred last month, and I plan to talk more about the events in a future post, but for now, I thought it would be worthwhile to reflect on finally hitting three years of federal service.
Why the Three-Year Mark Matters
Reaching the three-year milestone in the Foreign Service is a major achievement. It signals a provider’s commitment to the mission and brings important career benefits:
- Tenure and Career Stability
- At three years, medical providers become eligible for tenure, transitioning from a limited appointment to a career position. I still have to be granted tenure, but the wait is finally over and I will learn if I am granted tenure in the fall.
- Increased Paid Leave
- Hitting the three-year mark also means a significant boost in paid leave. Providers become eligible for more annual leave days, giving them greater flexibility to travel, rest, and recharge between assignments. Being in a region of the world with amazing travel opportunities, the extra leave will come in handy.
Looking Ahead:
Above all, the greatest reward is the impact—knowing that your work directly contributes to the well-being of U.S. diplomats and their families abroad, while also helping those in your host nation (perhaps highlighted even further by the recent events in Myanmar). The sense of mission, adventure, and professional fulfillment makes this career one of the most unique and rewarding in medicine.
For those interested or just starting the journey, reaching that three-year mark is a moment to celebrate—it’s a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the joy of serving in a role that truly makes a difference. -Nick
