Diplomats: Real Stories from Real Diplomats - Experiences of Women Serving at U.S. Embassies Around the World - Paperback

by Alicia Ford (Author)

"If you ever wondered what it's like to be an American diplomat, this is a must-read. Alicia Ford's thoughtfully curated debut book offers honest, first-hand accounts of resilient women diplomats. It's critical to create a space for inspiration and this book offers a channel to be inspired and a call to join a community making a difference in the world on a daily basis." - Natalia Molano, U.S. Foreign Service Officer

Travel. Romance. Danger Posts. Babies. Career Changes.

A rare look at experiences of women serving at U.S. Embassies around the world. Read a variety of personal stories, essays, articles, and anecdotes from women who are current and former U.S. diplomats in the United States Foreign Service. This anthology sheds light on the perks and challenges of this mysterious but incredible lifestyle and career and answers the question of what it is like working in U.S. embassies around the world.

This book also includes a glossary, tips for how you too can become a U.S. Diplomat, and how you can be a diplomat in your personal life!

Note: These are personal stories and do not reflect official policy of the United States or any other government.

What readers are saying:

"This book drew me in right away. I completed it in two sittings because each short story was captivating and unique. I have always wondered what this line of work entailed, and these stories gave me a clear view of the benefits and struggles female diplomats may encounter. The personal accounts made me feel connected to the women who shared their experiences in this book. If you have every wondered about what the life of a diplomat entails or how to become one, this is a must read!" - MD

"I learned a lot from this book. Getting a glimpse of the types of people that pursue joining the Foreign Service. The resilience required for such a position is hard to imagine. Not just physical resilience at danger posts but mental resilience to constantly navigate cultural differences and find common ground. The pressure of the hopes of a country riding on the decisions and follow through of a few individuals should be crushing, but somehow these women have adapted and thrived.

The essays really helped show that people that become diplomats come from all sorts of places and don't have superpowers. It's the result of hard work, sacrifice, and pursuing opportunities regardless of self-doubt. Constantly going into challenging situations and coming up with creative solutions. That's what it takes to really improve and grow.

It's a never ending, seemingly impossible job that takes strong, adaptable people willing to do whatever it takes and can handle the realities of the world. Thank you to the women who contributed to this book and the other foreign service officers out there that are doing this necessary work to make the world a better place for everyone." - Melody Sendek

"As someone who travels a lot, I've often wondered what life would be like if I had a job that included travel and living in different places. Diplomats is a light and easy read with awesome stories of female diplomats around the world. I'd strongly recommend this read to anyone as it gives great insight into what it's like living and working in another country from a female perspective. Also great for high school and college age individuals who are considering career paths, and even older people like me who wonder if maybe a career change is in order