Characteristics Of A Diplomat

Insight into Diplomacy The word diplomat usually conjures up images of one of two scenarios: lavish parties with world leaders in exotic locations, or the monotonous stamping of passports in a crowded office. While these are both very possible, they are not mutually exclusive and they do not represent the daily life of a Foreign Service worker. On the United States Discover Diplomacy website, the functions of a diplomat are explained. The website describes the goal of diplomacy as serving for the benefit of the United States (What Are the Roles). The website states that a foreign consul’s mission is “to represent the interests and policies of the United States. Beyond that, diplomats’ roles and responsibilities are immensely varied” (What

The abilities of a diplomat or one studying transcontinental relations are broad, though each is pertinent. Of all the qualities necessary, most can fall into one of three categories: impeccable communication, a strong sense of self, and unshakable courage. Many of the people that know me best, and many that do not, would concur that I possess these traits. On the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard University's website the optimal characteristics of an outstanding diplomat are listed. The first and most important featured aspect was an enduring enthusiasm for diplomacy and international relations (Blackwill). “Robert D. Blackwill is a member of the Board of Directors and International Council of Harvard Kennedy School's Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs. He also is Henry A. Kissinger Senior Fellow for U.S. Foreign Policy with the Council on Foreign Relations.” (Blackwill). Blackwill stresses that a successful diplomat will “possess an abiding interest in and passion for the art and craft of diplomacy and international relations.” He provides the advice that “[i]f this subject matter does not feed you, if you do not have a compelling instinct to learn about the world, pursue a different profession” (Blackwill). Blackwill’s statement provides evidence that passion can be the greatest strength in this field.

The reason why diplomacy is so relevant is because it seeks not only to bring peace to one’s home country, but also the world. On an online newspaper website published for World Peace Day, many quotes are listed to inspire peace. In this list, the words of John F. Kennedy are very powerful when he talks about how peace takes slow dedication to gently change the world (qtd. in “World Peace Day”). Former first lady and diplomat, Eleanor Roosevelt claimed, “It isn’t enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn’t enough to believe in it. One must work at it" (qtd. in “World Peace Day”). I agree that harmony on Earth is only possible with consistent consideration and labor. My greatest wish is to contribute to making the American and global community stronger. I will be able to do this by pursuing an International Relations major at Duke University. It is a practical goal for me due to the experiences, knowledge, and abilities that I have with diplomacy and global