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mtreecorner posted:The mustang program? I'm curious how that works as I have been looking at civil service and specialist positions too. 1) Have a degree related to the cone or have passed the FSOT. 2) Be tenured. 3) Have 3 years of service. 4) Be a 4-6 Specialist. 5) Have continuing education courses/classes related to the cone. For IMSs, it's difficult as we are admin promoted to 4 about a year and half in and if you get promoted to 3, you're not eligible.
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Jan 23, 2012 20:23
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Glad to see that someone made it, Tyro. Good luck with OA!TCD posted:Yeah. At this point, I would almost pay someone to break down what went wrong with my QEP. Just some sign post to make sure I would do better next time. My feeling is I was too pompous and preening about my responses (I DID this and I DID THAT), and there's a nagging doubt that my mention about going into Somalia was seen as a no no.
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Jan 23, 2012 20:48
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Huh, a ton of people didn't pass the QEP. Sorry to hear that TCD & the others who didn't make it this run. Wonder if the budget cuts played a significant factor.
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Jan 23, 2012 21:48
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TCD posted:1) Have a degree related to the cone or have passed the FSOT. So say, if i made it as a GSO (which starts at a 4)... I would basically have to do this before 3 if I wanted to do it.
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Jan 23, 2012 21:54
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mtreecorner posted:So say, if i made it as a GSO (which starts at a 4)... I would basically have to do this before 3 if I wanted to do it. Yes.
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Jan 23, 2012 22:23
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Skandiaavity posted:Huh, a ton of people didn't pass the QEP. Sorry to hear that TCD & the others who didn't make it this run. I'm guessing so...
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Jan 23, 2012 22:43
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TCD posted:I'm guessing so... Um, not to disclose anything, but how's it look on the IMS front? 
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Jan 23, 2012 23:41
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TCD posted:1) Have a degree related to the cone or have passed the FSOT. That's pretty interesting; Basically you have a 'window' to go mustang. Not sure what is typical for IMSers, but how often is it you guys aren't getting your 3 on the first go?
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Jan 24, 2012 02:19
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Can someone let my n00b self know what IMS stands for?
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Jan 24, 2012 04:34
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Information Management Specialist, I believe. Also, ouch on the QEPs, sorry guys (and congrats Tyro). Keep pushing. hayden. posted:I appreciate the feedback guys. I thought about editing my post because it sounds like I already feel defeated, which isn't entirely the case. I still plan on taking the FSOT and trying my best, I just don't have my expectations high at this point.
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Jan 24, 2012 04:55
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Didn't pass the QEP. Nor did a friend of mine who has a JD from a top-5 law school, and nor did another friend who made it to the OA last year. Congrats Tyro, though!
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Jan 24, 2012 05:02
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Good lord I hope things are a little better when I take the test this summer.
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Jan 24, 2012 05:22
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These are dark days... I am thinking the specialist route might be the only way right now for me. (I'll keep trying the FSOT though!)
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Jan 24, 2012 05:25
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Uh the 2012 budget says they are only going to try to grow by 197 people across the entire State Department (+95 FSOs). Hope a few more baby boomers decide to retire.
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Jan 24, 2012 06:14
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This is a really great thread and the information here is invaluable since no one official can ever explain anything in non press-release ready terms. So, I have a few general questions, and I'm less than happy with how the state department website organizes even basic information (non-searchable flash menus, yaaaay) though I may also just be dumb. 1) The list of cities overseas where the test is administered is available, but not any information beyond that--is it just the same date and time as everywhere else at the respective embassy/consulate, or am I missing something here? 2) Anyone else who has taken the test overseas care to share their experience? 3) I hope this hasn't already been asked but does taking the test more than once penalize you in any way or do they not care? 4) I'm also applying to a potentially relevant masters program: on the off chance that I pass the test(s) AND I get into school, is there any chance to defer the job offer or in some way get credit for it later or will I have to start from scratch if I want the job later? 5) Alternatively, if they give me the job and I decide not to take it, will they hate me for the rest of my life? Thanks in advance, and sorry if all of these questions have already been covered to death!
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Jan 24, 2012 12:57
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3. You can take the test as much as you want, they don't care, but it can only be taken once a year. 4. I seriously doubt it, but I could be wrong 5. They will if you accept the job then flake out, but if you just turn them down before going to A100 I think you'll be okay.
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Jan 24, 2012 13:01
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PrezCamachoo posted:Uh the 2012 budget says they are only going to try to grow by 197 people across the entire State Department (+95 FSOs). If those numbers are right, this also means that you have to nail the OA to have a good chance at making it off the register.
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Jan 24, 2012 13:23
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Homie S posted:That's pretty interesting; Basically you have a 'window' to go mustang. My current rater has gotten multiple people promoted. I think our IMS promote rates are one of the lowest in the Dept. so... Either way, the program is designed for EL specialists, but it seems to be the most helpful for OMSs.
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Jan 24, 2012 13:33
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Smerdyakov posted:This is a really great thread and the information here is invaluable since no one official can ever explain anything in non press-release ready terms. So, I have a few general questions, and I'm less than happy with how the state department website organizes even basic information (non-searchable flash menus, yaaaay) though I may also just be dumb. 1 & 2: no idea. 3: No penalty. It doesn't really change so it actually helps you. You can pass it multiple times and still keep taking it, if you don't make it off the register. Also, some special fellowships still take the OA even after they've already served as an FSO for however long. 4: Once you are on the register, you can go on "do not call" status for as long as you want out of your 18 months, but the clock keeps ticking. However if you are not on DNC status, you can only decline an offer once. Considering this is easily a year-long process to just get on the register, if not longer, and THEN your 18 month window to be hired starts, just start your masters, and if you pass everything, go on DNC until you finish. Keep in mind the degree will only help modify your starting pay -- maybe. And long term there are opportunities (usually opening up around 7 years in) to be paid to take your masters, at places like the War College, Harvard, Tufts, etc. 5: No, it happens. It just starts you back at square 1 with no guarantee that you'll be able to pass the process again.
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Jan 24, 2012 14:16
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Homie S posted:That's pretty interesting; Basically you have a 'window' to go mustang. I made it my 3rd time as an IMTS, got a MSI my first shot at 2 and jack poo poo the second shot. This last time was my first time competing as an IMS and it's a lot harder to get promoted as an IMS.
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Jan 24, 2012 16:35
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TCD posted:
I'm curious, what makes you say this? Vilerat posted:
Huh. Either way, TCD makes a good point, a lot of it can depend on your rater.
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Jan 25, 2012 01:30
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Homie S posted:I'm curious, what makes you say this? Well, it's the 4-6 limit. Most specialists come in or are admin promoted to 4 in the 2 year mark. I think there's a 3 shot limit for the program, it would seem to benefit OMSs the most.
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Jan 25, 2012 01:45
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Smerdyakov posted:1) The list of cities overseas where the test is administered is available, but not any information beyond that--is it just the same date and time as everywhere else at the respective embassy/consulate, or am I missing something here? 1) All the tests are administered during the same week, but I think dates and times can vary. You only find out exact dates and times of a given location after you complete the FSOT application and they invite you to choose a slot. 2) I've only taken it overseas so I have nothing to compare it to, but you just go to the embassy/consulate and take the test on their computers. I doubt where you take it makes any substantive difference.
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Jan 25, 2012 03:52
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TCD posted:Well, it's the 4-6 limit. Most specialists come in or are admin promoted to 4 in the 2 year mark. I think there's a 3 shot limit for the program, it would seem to benefit OMSs the most. Kinda agree since for IMS 3 is the first 'real' promotion so you're likely a lot earlier in your career (and the window is a lot smaller) than somebody who maxxes out at what, 3? 4? OMS don't get many opportunities for advancement sadly while most other specialties have a decent path to senior foreign service ranks.
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Jan 25, 2012 07:06
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PrezCamachoo posted:Uh the 2012 budget says they are only going to try to grow by 197 people across the entire State Department (+95 FSOs). That blows. I just found out I got onto the register today (and got an appointment later too!) and have to decline/go on the do-not-call list for at least 3 months due to some personal stuff. Balls.
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Jan 26, 2012 01:58
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For those interested, this was posted on the official State Department career forum today. Looks like it really was as bad as we thought in terms of the QEP this round. "We know that many of you eager to enter the Foreign Service as generalists are disappointed with the QEP results announced this week. First and foremost, candidates should understand that the percentage of FSOT passers who are invited for Oral Assessments varies dramatically over time. The variations are not about the quality of the candidates, but are simply a matter of two numbers – State Department hiring targets and the number of candidates who apply and pass the FSOT. In 2011, 9,000 FSOT candidates passed the written exam, but the hiring targets for the State Department are down, reflecting current budget realities. When the hiring targets are lower, we invite fewer candidates for oral assessments. The Foreign Service is fortunate to attract the most dedicated group of service-minded people in America..." Interesting that they felt the need to specifically address the low numbers. mtreecorner fucked around with this message at 02:53 on Jan 26, 2012 |
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Jan 26, 2012 02:49
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Probably a lot of angry people with a strong sense of entitlement called them up complaining. I take the test in June and I'm upping my effort in preparing my QEP's. Keeping a detailed dairy about the 13-D
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Jan 26, 2012 03:44
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Yeah that's all great but let's look at a good thing to distract you. All state weenies read state 7330 with a subject line of : SUBJECT: Announcing Google Chrome and Internet Explorer 8.
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Jan 26, 2012 11:18
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gently caress you I was just about to mention how much I love IMS for that (don't forget Windows 7) but now that you beat me to it I'm just going to be jaded about it.
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Jan 26, 2012 12:08
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We're finally getting Chrome? drat this medevac and my inability to receive cables!
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Jan 26, 2012 13:53
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Chrome, IE 8 and Windows 7!
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Jan 26, 2012 14:28
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When we switched from explorer to chrome (and gmail based email)... it was one of the best days of my life.
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Jan 26, 2012 14:42
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I have to wait till I get back from vacation to read it, but if I get Chrome I'm pretty psyched. I've had Windows7 for about a month now & like it for the most part though I've had to find workarounds for a few things.
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Jan 26, 2012 15:43
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How easy is it to convert from an IMS to civil service? Think a few people I know may be going this route.
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Jan 26, 2012 17:04
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We made the switch to Chrome/Gmail at work last month and... I actually kind of hate using Gmail for work. I was surprised, because I've been using Gmail for years. But... let's just say I never thought I'd miss Outlook.
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Jan 26, 2012 20:03
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pamchenko posted:We made the switch to Chrome/Gmail at work last month and... I actually kind of hate using Gmail for work. I was surprised, because I've been using Gmail for years. But... let's just say I never thought I'd miss Outlook. We went from lotus notes to gmail. I wish we had outlook before :/
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Jan 26, 2012 23:06
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So I'm hoping someone could give me a little advice. I'm at a super-organized place in my life and as such registered only last night to take the written exam. I got the email back this morning offering a seat for the February exam between Feb. 4-11. Should I go for it or wait until the next written exam in June? Looking at available test questions, on non-management and non-economic questions, I average probably at least 75-80%. Reading a book or two, I could easily bring the others up to that level. I can't find any interpretable score cut-off, however, so I don't know whether that's good enough. (I know, better is better, but Feb. 11 is only two weeks away so good enough is good enough). Essay's no problem for me, I've cranked out far too many to fail on account of the essay. Part of the reason I'm eager to go for it next month is I'm currently teaching abroad and my contract ends in August 2013. A February seating appears to fit that timeline much more neatly. But, you know, if I fail the written test, that timeline is fuuuuucked. heeeeelllllllllp meeeeeeee (please)
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Jan 27, 2012 00:05
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Czolgosz posted:So I'm hoping someone could give me a little advice. I think 70% to 80% on the practice questions will probably pass the FSOT. You might as well take it now. I don't think studying really ups the score all that much. As my friend Nike says... Just do it.
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Jan 27, 2012 00:24
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Take the test, and if things don't work out take it again next year.
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Jan 27, 2012 00:25
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Vilerat posted:Yeah that's all great but let's look at a good thing to distract you. All state weenies read state 7330 with a subject line of : SUBJECT: Announcing Google Chrome and Internet Explorer 8. PRAISE JEEBUS I can finally start checking mail and calendars at work again.
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Jan 27, 2012 01:30
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