The State Department has chosen 15 college students for the 2021 Foreign Affairs Information Technology (FAIT) Fellowship program. Winners receive scholarships and a State Department posting as a Diplomatic Technology Officer. The program aims to attract outstanding students and professionals to apply their technology skills in support of diplomacy. Eligibility requires being a US citizen enrolled in a full-time IT degree program with a minimum GPA of 3.2. Participants receive up to $43,500 annually for two years to cover tuition, board, books, and travel expenses, along with housing stipends and allowances. There is also a five-year service commitment to serve abroad in the Foreign Service.
One of the selected students, Astrid Tagne, from the University of Maryland, shared her background as a first-generation American from Cameroon and her interest in using technology to explore diplomacy and other cultures. Fluent in French and Spanish, Tagne highlights her passion for connecting with people through hobbies like weightlifting and sewing. Despite initially pursuing a career in healthcare, Tagne discovered her interest in technology during a summer camp and has since developed a keen interest in the field.
The FAIT Fellowship offers opportunities for participants to work as Diplomatic Technology Officers at US Embassies or consulates overseas, where they handle IT operations and support diplomatic efforts. Tagne expressed excitement for the chance to interact with different cultures and sees challenges as opportunities for growth. As she prepares to embark on this journey, Tagne remains eager to build connections, learn about new technologies, and contribute to the field of diplomacy.
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