Realities of Foreign Service Life, Volume 2

by Patricia Linderman (Editor), Melissa Brayer Hess, Marlene Monfiletto Nice

In this second volume of AAFSW's "Realities of Foreign Life," 29 members of the U.S. diplomatic community - including employees, spouses and one articulate teen - share their knowledge, research and personal perspectives, broadening and extending the first book's candid insights into the Foreign Service lifestyle. Focusing on the "realities" faced by diplomats and their families outside the embassy or consulate walls, the authors explore topics such as schooling and housing abroad, intercultural marriage, medical evacuations, employment for accompanying partners, and the growing number of unaccompanied assignments. - If you are already a member of the Foreign Service community (and especially if you have recently joined), this book will provide useful and practical information for the fascinating but often challenging journey ahead. - If you (or your partner) are thinking about entering the Foreign Service, this book joins the first volume in serving as a "reality check," offering a clear view of both the positive and negative aspects of Foreign Service life, for partners and children as well as employees. - If you are a student contemplating a career in diplomacy, a friend or relative of a Foreign Service member - or if you are simply curious about the lives of U.S. diplomats and their families overseas - this book will give you an insider's perspective found nowhere else.

Genres: Nonfiction

286 pages, Paperback

First published July 2, 2007

Reviews

[Christopher · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read volume 1 first, which being almost 20 years old is dated. This volume is also tired but it provides some great advice from foreign service officers and spouses about living and working overseas. It is a window into the mind - showing opportunities, concerns, and challenges of the foreign service lifestyle. Having lived overseas for 5 years myself, I found the stories illuminating.

My greatest takeaway was not lessons for overseas living but was unique the perspectives had based on their overseas experiences. One provided some practical advice on self-reflection prior to moving while another unpacked the challenge of representing the United States even when you disagree with its policy. Most thought provoking was how much Americans value individualism and universalism - and how it colors our perceptions of the world.

Going overseas? Pick up this easy read and get some value out of those that came before!

[Kate · Rating 2 out of 5]

Vignettes by Foreign Service Officers on life overseas. Some of the chapters were very informative, lots were personally irrelevant, but I can see others appreciating them (ie. life with kids overseas, finding work for spouses overseas, etc.)

[Lachelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

It seemed like most of the chapters were relevant to Foreign Service Officer spouses (I shop therefore I am. . . in the Foreign Service - really?) but a few were particularly insightful.

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this read, it talks about common problems that people have in the Foreign Service. It gives real and practical stories. It was an amazing insight into the lifestyle.

[Bridget · Rating 4 out of 5]

daydreaming while I await my results.

[E.M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

more of what to expect...