Orientation - Day 1

The first day of orientation went well. I left myself plenty of time to get to the Ronald Reagan Building via Metro this morning, which was good because there was a disruption on the Green line, so everything was running behind and all the trains were jam-packed because of it. So, I had to wait for the second train to come to squeeze on. I left the apartment at 7:10, and even with the issues, I was at the building by 7:40. I think, with no issues and good timing, it should only take about 15 minutes, but I plan on always leaving plenty of time...I don't like being late!

So, I made it to the building, was escorted to our classroom, where I sat at a table with five other DLIs (which is what we're called – we're DLI 15). We were sworn in right away...turns out I didn't have to memorize the oath of office, but I had anyway. We heard from a panel of retired USAID mission director, who had some good advice. Here are a few of their insights...first, coming in completely fresh with no idea of how USAID functions or what you'll be doing is an advantage (HOORAY because I definitely fall into that camp!). Also, all of the panel members kept reiterating that there's really no use in trying to do “career-planning” because you'll just end up frustrated when the positions, locations, etc. that you've planned for yourself aren't there for you. Also, I learned that after I'm tenured (approximately 4 years), I have the ability to take positions in other program areas (education, policy, environment, health, etc.) to try them out. One of the panelists had worked for USAID for 30 years, and said that almost every day was pure enjoyment. I find this promising...

We had some additional briefings on logistics and security, and then we had our formal swearing-in ceremony with the acting USAID administrator (Dr. Rajiv Shah, the actual administrator, is traveling in India with President Obama this week). I learned that, by next year, 50% or more of the US Foreign Service Officers will have less than 2 years of experience. The rebuilding of USAID is a huge effort...our class alone is 60 new hires. Apparently, before starting the DLI a couple of years ago, they didn't even bring in 60 new hires in a year. We're supposed to be 'agents of change' for the agency, however we've been warned that not all of the long-time employees are so thrilled with this prospect. I can understand that. We'll see how it goes.

I was home by 4:00 this afternoon. According to our schedule for the next five weeks, it looks like we don't have to be in until 8:30am from now on. Yay for an extra 30 minutes of sleep! The rest of this week is mostly administrative stuff – getting badges, filling out paperwork, learning about benefits and USAID organizational structure.

On December 10^th, we'll have our flag ceremony, where I'll find out where I'm going once I'm done with training. That's not too far away...