Great experience if you don't mind the payThe good thingsWorking with the best people in their respective fields and having something different to do each day. One day you're reviewing a proposed law, the next day negotiating official development assistance, the day after that attending a Cabinet meeting.
The scholarship opportunities are great as well. Usual destinations are schools in Australia, Belgium, Netherlands, and Japan.
The challengesThe low pay. It's government standard, and while our SGs might be higher than those in other agencies it's waaaay less than the fair market value of our skills.
Some members of management may pose a problem from time to time.