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Meet Katie, UK Diplomat
- maryhartley19
- Nov 10
- 3 min read
Name: Katie
Degree: French, Portuguese and Spanish at the University of Exeter
How did you spend your Year Abroad?
One study semester at Universidade de Coimbra in Portugal; three-month work placement as a Business Developer for a recruitment company in Lisbon; three-month work placement as a TEFL Teacher in Valencia.
Briefly outline your journey from graduation to now.
My first job was a direct entry position to the Civil Service in then-Department for International Development (DFID). After DFID merged with then-Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO), I continued to progress through internal opportunities in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). I've worked in a variety of roles covering Africa, Latin America, Eastern Europe and North-East Asia.
What is your current job?
UK Diplomat (Full-Time Language Training) at FCDO
What does your current job involve day to day?
I am currently studying a new language full-time in preparation for a diplomatic posting. In my other roles in the FCDO, day to day tasks have included working for a Minister to provide policy advice, accompany them on overseas travel and support them in Parliament. I have worked on the UK's response to several international crises, and represented the UK in international forums.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love the variety and impact of the work. Contributing to UK policy making is hugely rewarding and I'm lucky to learn from brilliant colleagues every day. I enjoy having the opportunity to travel and connect with people from other cultures.
What advice would you give to someone interested in this job?
The Civil Service Fast Stream isn't the only route to becoming a UK diplomat. Many of my colleagues have transferred in after working in other government departments, and many have a background in international-facing roles in the private sector. It's also possible to be posted overseas from other government departments such as the Department for Business and Trade, the Ministry of Defence, and the Department for Science, Technology and Innovation. Starting your career off elsewhere could still lead to becoming a diplomat, even if it doesn't happen straight away.
Diplomats tend to move countries every two to four years, so it's a career that would be well suited to someone looking for variety and who doesn't mind starting over again in a new place frequently (year abroad experience is looked on favourably here!).
How has your languages degree been useful during your career so far?
My degree provided me with transferable analytical and communication skills, and the ability to quickly get to grips with new issues - which happens regularly when changing roles or when the international context changes. Having studied languages full-time was definitely instrumental in securing a speaker slot (a diplomatic role that is preceded by full-time language training). It gave me the confidence to engage with the wide range of people my work brings me into contact with; across government, the private sector, politicians, etc.
Do you use or practise your languages outside of work?
I still use my degree in languages for travel, keeping in touch with friends, and to enjoy foreign books, TV, etc.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your career journey?
Graduating without having a job lined up was scary. I would encourage anyone in that position to treat job hunting like a varied 9-5, including networking (with alumni in the field of interest, going to events, staying connected with peers) and skills/knowledge building as much as writing applications. This can help a lot with maintaining momentum, coping with rejection and preventing isolation.
Thanks very much to Katie for sharing her journey!
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