What does a foreign service officer do?

What college major should I choose in order to be a diplomat / foreign service officer?

• I'm currently in high school, but I'm interested in becoming a diplomat after college. I've researched the US Department of State's information about prospective FSOs, and says that it's not imperative to necessarily study a certain field. However, I'm still interested in college majors such as international relations/foreign policy, political science, law, sociology, and psychology. What study/studies would be most beneficial to working as a Foreign Service Officer? Also, I know that the selection process is very difficult and it may take a long time to be chosen as an FSO. What jobs could I pursue as an alternative or in waiting to become a diplomat?

• Answer:

  you should start by considering what you'd really like to do in the Foreign Service, if you have any idea at this point. there are various job divisions, or cones in State Department speak, like political, economics, administrative, consular, and public diplomacy. if you have a strong preference, then consider what would make you more attractive in that area. but, political science, international relations, economics, history and languages. plus, find ways to go overseas and gain experience outside of the US, both during and after school. The reality is that there is no one path to get in.