Welcome to our unaccompanied tours (UT) blog, Foggy Bottom Rambles! We can share information, programs, and resources quickly with you and since blogs are a two way street, we (and the other readers) can hear from you. What's in a name you say? This blog reflects how we (back here in DC, Foggy Bottom area) provide information (rambles) to you. Find websites and information, upcoming webinars, programs and events. FLO does not endorse organizations or companies linked-to in this blog, the views they express, or the products/services they offer. Let us know what you think: contribute to the blog or email us at FLOAskUT@state.gov.

Monday, April 23, 2018

2018-2019 PDF Application Period Now Open


The Family Liaison Office is now accepting applications for the Professional Development Fellowship (PDF) program. The program is open to spouses and partners of direct-hire U.S. government employees from all agencies serving overseas under Chief of Mission authority. The fellowships assist spouses and partners with maintaining, enhancing, and/or developing their professional skills. Activities may include, but are not limited to, education and distance learning through an accredited university, professional development, obtaining or renewing certifications and licensures, and participation in professional conferences. Fellowships from $1,000 up to $2,500 will be offered on a reimbursable basis.

The application deadline is May 13, 2018. Program details and the application form are on the PDF webpage. Like and follow FLO on Facebook for updates. Send questions to FLOAskPDF2018-2019@state.gov with the subject line: PDF Question.

Wednesday, April 11, 2018

Employment Resources for Family Members 


Over the next three weeks, we will provide tips for preparing yourself for future employment opportunities overseas and in the U.S. Whether it is your first overseas post or your last, these tips apply to you. Questions or appointments? Contact a member of FLO's Employment Team at FLOAskEmployment@state.gov.

Part One: Moving to an Overseas Post
Regardless of where you are going, it is very important to have your employment documents with you. Check out this list of important documents. If you are currently working in a Family Member Appointment overseas, download your eOPF documents from HR Online while you still have access. Also, remember your Employee Express login.

Monday, April 9, 2018

Reminder! FLO Global Webinar Tomorrow at 9:00am ET
Those Who’ve Gone Before: Health and Wellness, deptofstatehr.adobeconnect.com/geihealth-wellness
About the Series
Hosted by FLO's Global Employment Initiative Team, the EFM entrepreneurship series is designed to help aspiring EFM entrepreneurs learn from other EFMs who are successfully self-employed.

FLO’s Global Employment Initiative invites you to watch the upcoming webinars in our EFM entrepreneurship series. The series is designed to help aspiring EFM entrepreneurs learn from EFMs who are successfully self-employed.

Links
1. Those Who’ve Gone Before: Health and Wellness, deptofstatehr.adobeconnect.com/geihealth-wellness
2. Qualify in Person: FINDING Your Story,deptofstatehr.adobeconnect.com/geifindingyourstory
3. Qualify in Person: TELLING Your Story ,deptofstatehr.adobeconnect.com/geitellingyourstory

Monday, April 2, 2018

Summer 2018 Distance Language Learning Courses


The Foreign Service Institute’s (FSI) Summer 2018 semester of online distance language learning courses are starting on May 14. Take an instructor-guided online course to learn a new language or improve your skills in a language you already know. Courses are available to suit all levels of language learning, from beginner to advanced. Instructors work with learners to help them meet their individual language training needs and goals.

Foreign and Civil Service Department of State employees with a job-related need for language training and accompanying EFMs/MOHs are eligible to enroll. Enrollment is also open to other federal agency employees and their EFMs on a reimbursable basis. Email OnlineLanguage@state.gov for more information.