FSI First Steps: Hacks for New Foreign Service Families

Joining the Foreign Service is an exciting opportunity for new adventures abroad for your family and a unique chance to serve and represent your country. And getting accepted into the A-100 class is your first step towards that exciting adventure as a United States diplomat! (Go ahead and do a happy dance—this is a pretty big step!)
I remember when my husband first passed all his tests and got the call that he’d been accepted into the Foreign Service Institute, or FSI. We were on our way to a life abroad and our family was thrilled!

But before we packed out—we had a lot of questions about what to expect for the A-100 and SOAR foreign service orientations and how to make sure our family was ready for life abroad.

Tips for getting through the Foreign Service A-100

Obviously, my husband’s focus was on completing the A-100, or SOAR, class. Granted, this is an orientation—the really challenging part, all the tests, is behind you—so there’s less pressure. That doesn’t mean you can just check the box by showing up.

How you engage and show up can make a world of difference. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Joining the A-100 class means you’re joining the Foreign Service community. Use this time to meet and get to know your fellow diplomats. These people may just become your (and your family’s) support system and can possibly help you throughout your career. 
• Take advantage of the “admin” time. Besides learning the basic history, security regulations, and leadership skills you’ll need to be a successful FSO, there’s also a lot to do to get ready for your first post. Use your downtime to complete assessments and get your affairs in order. 
• The A-100 dress code is smart. Men are typically required to wear suits and women are expected to wear jackets with their dresses and slacks. But keep in mind, the weather in DC can get muggy in the summer and really cold in the winter, so pack and plan accordingly. (By the way, the dress code at FSI is a lot more casual.)
  

Planning beyond the your A-100 class

Getting your family ready to move abroad and adjust to a brand-new life, while discussed during foreign service orientation, generally requires a little more planning. Moving your family around the world can be stressful and it can sometimes be challenging for children and spouses, but in general, the foreign service is very family friendly and comes with a lot of perks for your FS family. 

Most of these perks are things that won’t be mentioned during A-100; they’re things you’ll learn after being in the FS for a while--unless, you know where to look or can get some veteran FSO insights. 
And having been in the foreign service since 20210, our family can give you some insight into how to maximize your FS experience!

If you’re a family joining the Foreign Service, this will be your go-to resource: 40 Hacks for FS Families

From travel tips to housing hacks, and everything in between, consider this your cheat sheet for life in the foreign service! Implementing even just two or three of these suggestions could make a big impact on your life and adventures in the FS abroad.

Get 40 Hacks for FS Families here ?

The thing about starting a new life in the Foreign Service is that you often don't know what you don't know...

It’s a unique lifestyle that comes with benefits and advantages that you may not be aware of!

Inside this free guide, I will share hacks like:

• How to sail on the Queen Mary in between assignments
• My favorite tool to talk to your friends and family (even if your schedules don’t match)
• How to get 50 free massages per year
• And so much more!!

As a FS Member, there are so many free resources, services, and reimbursement opportunities that you might not be aware of, and I've included the best of the best inside this guide.

I truly believe that implementing even one or two or three of these hacks can make a big impact! Don’t miss out on the perks!

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Now that you’re a part of the FS community, I’d love to connect! Join me and thousands of other FS families in our Toolbox for Foreign Service Families Facebook group! You’ll find even more resources, tools, hacks, and tips to help you and your family adjust to your new FS life.