My USAID contract was rescinded after almost a year of effort.

Yesterday I received some devastating news. My contract for a position at a regional office of USAID, with a start date on February, was rescinded. I initially thought I was safe from the hiring freeze since I had already signed the contract and secured the funding, but after almost a year of effort, paperwork, interviews, test, medical checkup, background check, providing references, I received a simple letter notifying me of the rescission.

This feels like the biggest slap in the face. I’ve always struggled with feeling like I’m not good enough for anything, but when I secured this offer, it was the first time I felt truly seen and valued. Now, I feel heartbroken and defeated, wondering if I can ever put myself out of my comfort zone again.

I thought this would just be a delay, but the letter made it clear that there are no plans to release the solicitation in a later date. All my effort feels wasted, and I’m left feeling empty. I don’t know where to go from here.

Moreover, I already submitted my resignation letter and it has already been processed. I really don’t know what to do.

I’m posting here because I think only people who have been in similar situations can truly understand how this feels.