Oh what a joy it was. I worked with the most fabulous people. The Human Resource people are the people that help you get hired in the government (definitely friends to have).

In June, 1987 I graduated high school, turned 18 and moved in with my boyfriend–all within one week. I soon realized this boyfriend was not for me and called my BFF to help me move out.

Through this assignment I was able to gain knowledge and experience in the key areas of the office. I learned about the “classification” functions– this is where experts determine what the grade level (or pay) is appropriate for the duties being performed, the “recruitment” functions — this is the getting hired portion, the “technical services” functions–this is where you learn about all of the wonderful benefits you get as a federal employee, and I learned about the “management employee relations” functions — this is where you go when there is a personnel problem that needs to be resolved. And the most rewarding experience was working for the Chief of the Civilian Personnel Office, Ms. Ramsden. She set the example for a classy, smart and professional women in government.

At this time I had been converted to what was called a “Summer Hire” and received my first promotion– from a GS-01 to a GS-02. Whoo Hoo I was on my way. Find out what happened next…