by Guest » Tue Jun 13, 2017 12:03 am
Hi all! I just finished my site visit and wanted to Point out some things that might be helpful for those who haven't gone to theirs yet.
Before visiting your SF take the time to read the scholarship paperwork and take the orientation quiz. Also take the time to look up basic government info like the GS scale. I spent about 30 minutes online and on the SMART website and could have answered all of the questions some of the other scholars asked.
1) It doesn't make you look very good if you ask a question that the answer can be found on page two of the handbook.
2) you may have other scholars at your facility with you, they will want to spend time asking SF specific questions.
3) Your SF most likely does not know the intricate details of the SMART program as they are an HR person who is probably in charge of multiple intern programs.
Bring pen and paper, write down any info they give you about directorates, health care, how you petition for a higher pay grade...etc.
don't be afraid to ask a question, just keep in mind the above point. Since you have already accepted this scholarship you should try and know the basics.
Dress on the side of more formal and feel it out.
If your entire group wears a suit and you wear a polo you may feel a little weird. However, keep in mind you are traveling and that may be your only option to avoid wrinkles! The SF asked for business casual on my end.
It is going to be a long day/day(s) bring coffee/soda/water with you and go to sleep at a normal hour. You will be back.
This is basically an extended orientation, you'll probably hear this same stuff again next summer. Worry more about directorates and clearance. Use your internship to ask questions about full time jobs.
Hi all! I just finished my site visit and wanted to Point out some things that might be helpful for those who haven't gone to theirs yet.
[b]Before visiting your SF take the time to read the scholarship paperwork and take the orientation quiz. Also take the time to look up basic government info like the GS scale. I spent about 30 minutes online and on the SMART website and could have answered all of the questions some of the other scholars asked.[/b]
1) It doesn't make you look very good if you ask a question that the answer can be found on page two of the handbook.
2) you may have other scholars at your facility with you, they will want to spend time asking SF specific questions.
3) Your SF most likely does not know the intricate details of the SMART program as they are an HR person who is probably in charge of multiple intern programs.
[b] Bring pen and paper, write down any info they give you about directorates, health care, how you petition for a higher pay grade...etc. [/b]
don't be afraid to ask a question, just keep in mind the above point. Since you have already accepted this scholarship you should try and know the basics.
[b]Dress on the side of more formal and feel it out. [/b]
If your entire group wears a suit and you wear a polo you may feel a little weird. However, keep in mind you are traveling and that may be your only option to avoid wrinkles! The SF asked for business casual on my end.
[b] It is going to be a long day/day(s) bring coffee/soda/water with you and go to sleep at a normal hour. You will be back. [/b]
This is basically an extended orientation, you'll probably hear this same stuff again next summer. Worry more about directorates and clearance. Use your internship to ask questions about full time jobs.