[quote author=CafeNoir post=103968302]Location: Lagos Embassy
School: University of Cincinnati
Funding: N21,000 +
Deficit: N23,000
Sponsor: Uncle
Department: Aerospace Engr

I interviewed with the loudest VO there. I saw that guy reject so many people and the fact that his voice is loud did not help. Man, I was so scared, I wanted to shit my pants. Anyways...

VO: Good morning. Pass me your passport and your i-20
Me: Good morning, sir.

VO: Tell me about your program and your plans.
Me: I am going to the University of Cincinnati for my Masters's degree in Aerospace engineering and Engineering Mechanics. My research area is going to be on Advanced combustion methods and alternative fuels. This basically looks into unconventional modes of combustion that increase the efficiency of gas turbines and also reduces the emission of certain toxic fumes. Since I currently work with steam and gas turbines in the Nigerian Power Sector, I am aware of the challenges that plague gas turbines and I hope my master's degree will equip me with enough knowledge to at least solve some of these challenges. (I might have mentioned the application of Gas Turbines in the Power Sector too.)

VO types and types and types. He didn't even make eye contact with me.

VO : Which family member is funding the rest of your studies. (My i-20 has "Family member" as a source of funds)
Me : My Uncle, my dad's brother.

VO : And what does he do?
Me : He's a director at xxxxx and he owns some property in xxxx which he rents out for both residential and commercial purposes.

I thought he was going to ask for SOA, but nope, Jesu mi o je.
Na so baba separate my i-20 from my passport. OMO, as I see say he separate am, I burst smile .

VO: I will be approving your visa. Make sure you take your i-20 with you to POE. Yada yada yada... I no even hear again. I just dey smile like idiot.
Me: Thank you.

VO: Also make sure you get some jackets because Cincinnati gets cold during the winter.
Me: * for my mind "Oga, no worry about that one, I go pack plenty jacket"


Tips:

1. Go with all required documents and supporting documents. Don't pay attention to those photocopying street guys, they will confuse you with different document names and then ask you to print with N2000 per copy. Complete your documents at home and stay focused. No lose guard.

2. Be confident. I know, I know. It is easier said than done, but it is necessary. That place is designed to stress you. You will be hearing people get rejected. You will see people freeze out of fear, but do not let it throw you off. Don't be tempted to change your answer last minute.

Imagine, the first thing I heard when I entered the hall was someone's rejection. In fact, I saw someone froze in front of the VO. He couldn't speak properly, his voice was quivering, and I know it wasn't for lack of preparation but fear. O' boy, fear hook me for like the first 5 mins, but I had to just calm down. Start to sing in your head if it will help you calm down; it helped me calm down sha.

3. Prep like your life depends on it. I had like 15 mock interviews in the space of two months, no joke. Be able to answer certain questions in your sleep. Especially questions about your research area and its link to your career plans IN NIGERIA.

4. Of course, if you believe in any form of deity, pray to it. I can't deny the place of grace in my experience.
Anyway, I wish everyone good luck.

Congratulations ��

Hello guys,

Is there anyone here at the University of Washington, Seattle or resuming this Fall? I’m arriving mid-September for my Ph.D. and looking to connect with Nigerians there, and possibly find a roommate.