This experience will help me with my job search in that it assists in my understanding of State Department functions and if my skills and interests align with that of an FSO. It has provided invaluable insight into the day to day activities of a Political, Economic, Public Diplomacy, GSO, and Consulate Officer, and greatly influenced to which position I would apply if I decide to pursue employment in the State Department. Whether or not this organization serves as a future employer, I will undoubtedly be working with them overseas and a strong understanding of the processes by which they operate is extremely helpful when working in Africa. I hope to pursue work in Sub-Saharan Africa in preventing, countering, or eradicating violent extremism and have now been exposed to many of the different security programs the State Department orchestrates or works alongside in achieving this mission.
Prior to arriving in Addis, I wish I had a better understanding of the African Union’s organizational structure and had received a class on writing cables to DC. Unfortunately prior to Ethiopia I was leading a Veteran expedition up Denali for which I left for only hours after my last final exam at Georgetown. Upon arrival I had to ‘drink from the water hose’ and learn as much as I could while attending meetings and drafting cables. I also regret not brushing up on my French language skills before arriving, as it is one of the working languages of the African Union. The Embassy provides its USAU employees with a private French tutor which has been invaluable to my understanding of AU documents not translated into English.
My agency contributes to the mission of national security in that the African continent is the fastest growing and youngest continent on Earth, continually attracting international terrorist organizations (such as Al-Shabab, AQIM, ISIS) to large recruiting pools of disenfranchised youth. The African Union has the capacity, funding, innovation, and the drive to ‘silence the guns’ and empower regional markets across Africa, and its Peace and Security Council is dedicated to promoting stability. Supporting the African Union through USAU ensures they have the resources and guidance at their disposal to be