FJO FINALLY!!!

Timeline: TJO 12/22/23 SF-86 and Fingerprints Submitted: 1/8/24 Security Clearance Cleared: 4/29/24 FJO: 9/25/24 EOD:10/6/24

I’ve looked at almost every thread from interviews to the FJO. I felt that I owed it to the community to give my insight into this crazy process that has finally come to an end.

While I knew this process would take a while, never did I imagine that it would take 10 months from interview to actually starting. From checking my email everyday to bothering practically any HR person within the State Department, this process took me through every emotion. From joy, to restlessness, to practically defeat, I almost gave up and resigned myself to starting over and hoping for the best. However, here we are!

To anyone in between their tjo and first day, here’s my advice. First, be patient but proactive. There is nothing wrong with asking for updates into your application or security clearance process. Second, do NOT make any sudden life changes until you receive your FJO. And finally, if you’ve made it this far, just know that I’m proud of you and you deserve your dreams coming to fruition. Stay strong and follow through!