FOREIGN SERVICE SEEKS MEN OF ABILITY, SHAW DECLARES

Pointing out that some posts in the Foreign Service of the United States can be most depressing and difficult, deep-voiced G. Howland Shaw '15, Assistant Secretary of State, told his audience in Eliot House Junior Common Room last night that the Service will accept only fully-grown, fully-matured men, capable of carrying on their work efficiently under the most trying circumstances.

"There are a great number of unpleasant positions," remarked Shaw.

"Often a man is sent to a single officer's post where a country will not permit him to talk to the populace. Health conditions are sometimes very poor, and he must undergo great sacrifices to continue his work. It is not a position for 'kids'; we are interested in obtaining only those men who can efficiently conduct such work."

In the present crisis, the full tides of emergency has struck sharply at the Foreign Service and a heavier load in being assigned to the "Juniors" in the department. When they are placed in positions of responsibility, they must immediately make good or else be removed from their posts.

The enter the service, according be Shaw, a candidate must been three different types of examinations. The first test covers his range of knowledge and information, his skill of reading rapidly and intelligently, interpreting, and his ability to organize and write effective letters and memorandums.

Passing this examination, the candidate appears for an oral test before a board of distinguished Service men. As in an employment interview, he must sell himself on his personality and his ability to influence other people.

The final test is the physical examination which conforms substantially to Navy qualifications. Eyesight standards, however, are not as exacting, and minor defects, such as slight limps, are often excused.