Ambassadors represent the United States in Canada. Candidates must be a U.S. citizen, at least 21 years of age at time of application, and have had their primary residence in the U.S. for the past three years (waived for employees of certain government agencies). They must also pass a background security investigation and medical exam before being accepted into the program.
So this summer, I had the pleasure of working for the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at their Global Language Program in Washington, D.C. I applied for the position by visiting their website and clicking apply through a job listings page on my school’s career portal. That’s it! There are no special tricks to becoming an Us ambassador, or even a foreign service officer (FSO) for that matter.
You might’ve seen that YouTube video of Bruce Campbell, who is an American actor, talking about being a US ambassador, saying “Just pick up the phone and call them”. You need to be aware that this is not true. Becoming a US ambassador takes a lot of time and often leaves you disappointed in the end. The process of becoming an American Ambassador could take years if you’re lucky or even decades. A typical path involves getting at least two or three degrees from notable universities, having over 15 years of experience in some kind of government position as well as having strong ties to different corporations and charities. If you have all these qualities, you have quite a chance to become a US ambassador.
How To Become A Us Ambassador
BECOME AN AMBASSADOR OF AVNON ACADEMY
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Becoming a U.S. Ambassador is a tricky, time-consuming process. With enough persistence and some smart strategizing, however, you just may land your dream ambassadorial appointment someday. In most cases, you will have to “pay your dues” first as a foreign service officer.
Things You Should Know
Getting a college degree will improve your chances. Try majoring in political science, international relations, or history.
Gain relevant experience by doing internships with political campaigns, NGOs, and government agencies.
Knowing a second language is a huge asset. Farsi, Turkish, Arabic, and Mandarin are in especially high demand.
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Preparing through EducationDownload Article
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Get a college degree. While you do not need any specific education to become a foreign service officer or generalist, you will need a degree to become a specialist. When pursuing a bachelor’s degree, consider majoring in political science, history, or international relations.
Take foreign language classes and if possible choose a language that is in high demand for the foreign service, e.g. Farsi, Turkish, Arabic, or Mandarin.
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Get a graduate degree. For some specialist positions, a graduate degree is preferred. Consider earning a master of public administration (MPA), master of public policy (MPP), or master of public affairs (MPA). Additionally, you may also want to consider a master’s degree in international relations or political science.[1] A PhD in political science, sociology, or anthropology also could be beneficial but are are not necessary.
For example, Information Resource Officers need to have a master’s degree in Library and Informational Science (M.L.S.) degrees.[2]
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Supplement your studies. While the knowledge you acquire during undergraduate and graduate studies is beneficial, you need to have a keen knowledge of current events. Attend lectures by visiting diplomats or government officials. Read the newspaper daily and aim to incorporate non-U.S. news sources as well.
Try to attend conferences concerning foreign policy matters that are open to the public or students.
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Improve your communication skills. Superb communication skills are vital if you want to become an ambassador. You’ll need to have excellent written and verbal skills. Take plenty of English classes to improve your literary proficiency. Consider taking public speaking courses, too. The ability to speak in front of an audience will come in handy if you become an ambassador.
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Take on a leadership role. Do what you can while you’re a student to demonstrate initiative and leadership skills. An ambassador needs to be able to make sound decisions confidently. Working in student government or a campus political organization are good places to start.
If you have any ideas about projects you can start on campus, demonstrate initiative by turning those dreams into a reality.