The U.S. Department of State is the official international relations arm of the President of the United States. Foreign Service Officers in the Department of State are responsible for formulating, implementing, and supporting U.S. foreign policy. Their work includes analyzing political and economic events; improving trade opportunities for U.S. businesses; conducting negotiations; implementing international agreements and treaties; issuing visas; assisting U.S. citizens abroad; educating foreign audiences about American culture and values; and managing an embassy’s operations. Foreign Service Officers are also engaged in foreign policy issues, such as conflict resolution, human rights and democracy, environmental and health issues, nuclear nonproliferation, world trade, and public diplomacy.

Carolina Escalera, 2011 Rangel Fellow, in Indonesia

A Foreign Service career is much more than just a job; it is a uniquely demanding and rewarding way of life. Foreign Service Officers work in Washington, D.C. and in more than 250 diplomatic posts worldwide. As representatives of the United States government and people, Foreign Service Officers have a direct impact on people’s lives, witness history in the making, and help create and implement U.S. policy. They are challenged every day.

Additional information on Foreign Service careers is available at www.careers.state.gov.