I had my interview at the US consulate yesterday. It was pretty basic/generic but here goes:
VO: Where are you going?
Me: I'm going to the University of Kansas Medical Centre, Kansas City, Kansas for my PhD in Biomedical Sciences.
VO: Why do you want this PhD?
Me: This PhD will equip me with the skills and training I need to become a successful biomedical researcher and qualify me for a job in academia.
VO: So you want to become an academic?
Me: Yes.
VO: The program is fully funded?
Me: Yes, I have a GRA.
VO: What is your highest qualification?
Me: I have a Bachelor of Pharmacy.
VO: When did you obtain this degree?
ME: 2016
VO: Are you married? Do you have kids?
ME: No and no.
VO: Ma'am, I'm going to approve your visa...

Let me ramble a bit: I'm not really one to post on online platforms such as these but given all that I have benefitted from this thread, it's only fair to give back however I can despite my reticence/discomfort. I first posted here before I had even started my grad school applications, asking for guidance as I had doubts about the competiveness of my profile and whether I wanted to go for a PhD or a Master's. Imperiouxx, Femi312 and other experienced posters were more than kind enough to allay my fears and offer helpful advice. I came across so many people at the consulate who clearly had no idea what was expected of them by the VOs and I'm doubly thankful I was made aware of this community and its insights. Thanks to everyone who takes out the time to answer questions (sometimes the same ones over and over) and particularly Walspring for helping with my SEVIS payment. Best of luck to everyone still in the throes of applications!

I'm new to nairaland but I've been following this thread on and off for about a year now and I'm sure the information I've been able to gather so far will be invaluable. I'm finally ready to begin my admission journey and I'd like some "personalized" advice, if you will.Here's my profile:
First degree: Pharmacy; 3.44/4
TOEFL: 112
GRE: 319 (Verbal: 166, Quant: 153, AW: 4)
What are my chances of getting into a good to decent school in the US for a Master's degree degree in Pharmacology or a related course with full funding? The funding aspect is critical as I'm currently making peanuts doing my youth service and my family can't really afford to sponsor an MSc abroad. Would I be better off (with regards to funding) pursuing a direct entry PhD? I'd prefer the MSc because of the 2 year exit option if I decide academia isn't for me, but I'm open to either.
Also, I'm considering retaking the GRE. Would my prospects be appreciably improved with a higher GRE score (Especially in the quantitative and AW sections)?
Lastly, I'm finding the prospect of wading through dozens of American schools rather daunting and I'd appreciate any school suggestions anyone might have to facilitate things, as well as any tips on how to whittle down the selection.
I really appreciate the work all the experienced posters have been putting in here to help us clueless newbies, lol. Thanks for all the help.