₦airaland Forum

klifeomg:
Veterans in the house,My question goes like this. I am currently studying for my MSc in a Nigerian private university and I will be done with project defence by May and graduate on or before July 2020.
However I want to know if it'd be possible to make PhD Fall 2020 as I don't have a Masters transcript yet but in view or should I just target Spring 2021. Please, I need a response as to know how quickly I should prepare for GRE.

I've seen scenarios where a transcript (despite it not containing your entire MSc results) is accepted especially when you have substantially covered a significant amount of your course requirements. I'd advise that you contact the graduate coordinators of schools you intend to apply to and find out the possibility of using a partial transcript for your applications.
Cheers!

Flaame:
yeah, thanks. Maybe if I had told him they all studied abroad in London the interview would have taken to another direction. Truthfully, they all did, but I never knew till I yesterday, I was very very young when they graduated(10 or 11 years). It's well

Hopefully you'll get it the next time.

biikeys:
You'll still see places

Yes oh. I can imagine what those big cities would look like.

Justabama:
Finally am in the US, its a wonderful world here, I entered through New York and then Transited to Minneapolis from there, Please my best advice is that you should eat before taking off cos them no dey get better food for airplane ooo, keep your I-20 with you at all times, learn to say no to those airport guys asking you for money at every point, one of them even said I should give him dollars when I told him I don't have any Naira with me and also don't mind those making POE sound like one Post Visa Interview, its really very simple, I was asked how long I intend staying and where I was going to, they didn't even ask me to present my connecting flight ticket, the whole process was like 30secs and they just let me lose into the streets of New York straight, things are relatively easier than I imagined. Only thig now is that am still afraid to spend Dollars, I always think twice when I convert the prices to Its Naira Equivalent... 15usd for a plate of pasta that wont even make sense at the end of the day, #5400 just imagine..

Welcome to the America
The place clean sha and I no dey too hear this their phonetics .
Then the conversion rate I have told myself if I no buy food na hunger go finish me. Just close eye buy wetin you wan buy.
About POE, experiences vary. In my case, my passport was stamped admitted and just few moments after the CBP officer cancelled it and directed me to another room for more questioning. I missed my flight after this, and so I had to rebook my remaining flights. It wasn't funny. I got in 5 hours later than my previous ETA.
So for others coming in, just expect anything, but be your confident self and I believe it would go well with y'all!

Flaame:
Visa denied yesterday at Abuja embassy
Time: 7:30am
Window 9: A white man in his late 30's or so


Vo: Good morning Mr Peter, you're welcome to the United States embassy
Me: Thank you sir
Vo: Can I have your passport and I20?
Mepassed them)
Vo: Have you ever traveled outside of the country?
Me: No Sir, I have never had reason to
Vo: where are you going?
Me: Am going for my undergraduate degree in computer engineering at St Cloud State University
Vo: Who is sponsoring you?
Me: I have a scholarship already but my sponsor would be taking care of the deficit(he looked closely at my I20 to confirm the scholarship)
Vo: What does your sponsor do?
Me: She owns a big school here in Abuja and is also an estate manager
Vo: What about her kids?
Me: (this question is not specific so I answered).... They're all grown up, graduated, mostly married, and independent
Vo: Where did they go to school?
Me: Some went to school here in Nigeria while others went to school abroad (Canada, I didn't want to say this cos one was very unserious with her education so she was brought back to Nigeria, and the VO could search her academic record since is Canada)
Vo: (In a finish him tone) Please can you explain to me why she couldn't sponsor all her kids to study abroad but chose to do that for you?
Me: As at that time, she hasn't been this buoyant as she is now ,and she's someone who believes so much in education and its potential...


I was still explaining and he started talking shit, he wasn't listening again,he didn't want to, he made his decision already, so I stopped talking, I didn't want him to get aggreviated ,cos he wasn't actually typing anything on his system, if I cont'd he could put something terrible there on my record, I realized I had lost it..... My money, sacrifices, efforts dashed away in less than 2 mins, I didn't really feel bad like the last time, but I was sure if I had said they all went to school abroad, the interview would have gone another direction. So this is all that transpired.

This is sad.
Sorry about this. Don't lose hope. Get a little rest and try again.
Yes you can!

Quoran:
Congrats to everyone who got in this Fall .Congrats @sherlock5577. I'm happy for you bro.

Thanks boss
Welcome back!!!

Flaame:
Am not a graduate student.

Oh sorry. I didn't realise.

Flaame:
Good morning everyone. I have my interview tomorrow and would want to post my transcript once again. Please help pick out flaws.
Vo: Good morning, passport and I20
Me: Passed them
Vo: You were here sometime last year, why were you denied
Me: I was denied because I couldn't clearly express my purpose of traveling to the visa officer due to the fact I was nervous
Vo: So what has changed since the last time you were here?
Me: I feel a lot more confident than the last time
Vo: So where are you going?
Me: Am going to St Cloud State University for my undergraduate degree study in computer engineering.
Vo: how many schools did you apply to?
Me: 3 schools, 3 admits (name them)
Vo: So why this school?
Me: Apart from the fact that I was given a generous scholarship by this school, Ichose this wonderful school because of all the schools I applied to, it's the only school that uses a D2L system, a system where professors can create web based course sites to enhance course experiences. This D2L system gives students the access to course materials like assignment folders, quizzes and surveys, course materials, and many more through their laptops, smartphones,and tablets. I also chose this school because of the level of interaction between students,their professors, and faculty members. On top of all these features,St. Cloud State University offers so much value at a very moderate rate.
Vo: Why this course?
Me: A degree in this course will give me practical and professional paraphernalia to secure an employment in top ranked technical innovative firms in Nigeria like Angela, Flutterwave, MasterCard,Glo,Jumia,etc. Besides, this,I have an optional lecturing job offer from a very close family friend who is the minister for education in my state upon graduation to work in either of two universities. With a degree and knowledge of this course, I will perfectly fit in the role(this is true please).
Vo: What are some of your undergraduate courses?
Me: General Engineering 101,102,Maths 222,Physics234,etc.
Vo: Tell me about your course plan?
Me: To obtain a degree in computer engineering, I need to complete 106 credits, maintain at least a minimum GPA of 2.5 to keep advancing to each level and as well graduate with a minimum GPA of 2.5 too.
Vo: When did you graduate and what have you been doing?
Me: I graduated in 2014,in September 2014,I started a year and half intensive computer lesson at BODSLINK computers . After my training, I got a part-time job as computer lab assistant. I worked there for another year and half to gain more practical skills and management strategies on Computer. In 2017,I started my college preparation.
Vo: Why did you choose to go to a U.S school?
Me: I chose to study in the United States because the U.S universities offer excellent research opportunities through several assisantship programs. U.S universities have a well designed educational system that strikes a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. A degree and academic experience from U.S universities is highly valued especially in terms of securing employment. on top of all these, the United States is the best destination for students seeking for a tertiary education abroad, and particularly, for STEM courses.
Vo: Who is your sponsor?
Me: My uncle
Vo: Why your uncle what does he do?
Me: My uncle has been playing a very big role in my education for a very long time. He believes it'll be a good investment for me to advance in my academic, so he's very obliged to continue catering for my education regardless of the cost.
-He's a lawyer by profession but has a very large school here in Abuja, has a couple of estate business he manages, and owns two lounges here also.
Vo: What are your plans after graduation?
Me: Upon graduation in May 2023,I'll come back to Nigeria for my compulsory NYSC program, afterwards, I'll seek for employment in top ranked technical innovative firms or a lecturing job in one of the universities in my state.



Sharwama, fairheart,Time2win,brown2green,lagosismyhome,walspring,nahum77,naughtyvirgin....please guide me here

You've got a good transcript but I'd like to say your reason for why that school should be more specific. I want to assume that some others schools offer this D2L system, so you'll need to be more specific, e.g., you could mention your interest in the research carried out by a particular professor or something like that...
All the best!

Shadbay:
I've been in extreme emotional pains for the past few months. I don't even know where to start to narrate my ordeal. I do not want this experience to damage me emotionally and psychologically, that's why I'm seeking help. Please pardon the length and blunders.

Earlier this year, just two weeks after my birthday, my ex-gf (gf of almost 7 years) broke up with me. I had just visited her and left two days prior to the breakup.
I went through the most challenging period of my life because I just suffered some job and graduate school rejections that period. The breakup worsened my situation and pushed me into a depression. I have never felt defeated in life till that point. She blocked me on all mediums of communication. It was too extreme. I went from 91kg to 85 kg in less than 3 weeks.

I visited her to understand the whole situation cos her behaviour was too extreme and I got a toxic dosage of embarrassments. She said she was done with me. She said a lot of hurtful things to me. The height of the embarrassments was calling her new boyfriend (barely 3 weeks after breaking up with me) right in front of me and telling him she doesn't know what I'm doing in her place. She even called some of her friends to inform them of my presence. They all sounded scared and concerned for her as if I was some kind of predator. They told her to leave her place at once and come to their place. All these calls were on speaker! This is someone I invested all these years and emotions for. I went through hell that period cos I was dealing with some other personal tribulations.

I can't imagine treating her or anybody else the way she treated me. I NEVER cheated on her, NOT ONCE or by chance! I have walked away from compromising situation countless times because I placed her so high. I had so much respect for her. She now went on to slander my name, accusing me of cheating!!! When I asked who was feeding her all those lies, she said her friends told her. How? Did I date you or your friends? It still boggles my mind to think she'll believe them and go about spreading those ugly rumours about me.

The straw that broke the camels back was when a friend of mine told me that she said she's grateful to God she didn't contract any infection/disease from me! I couldn't believe my ears. I broke down. This didn't just break my heart, it shattered my spirit. This is someone I imagined spending the rest of my life with. My whole family (even extended) accepted her as one of us.

I had to accept that things were beyond salvaging because any attempt from me to fix things kept doing the opposite. The minute it involved my sisters I had to accept defeat.

I never harmed her or attempt to lay a finger on her. I might not be perfect but I gave it my all. The situation is far worse than I described it here, it's even painful remembering them. I loved her to a fault.

I got a text from her about a month ago after I refused to answer her calls because I had just lost a loved one. She said she's getting married and hopes I find peace as she has found hers. I stared at those words speechless. The worst set of people one could ever encounter are those that hurt you, know that they hurt you and still turn around to play victim accusing you of hurting them. If there's anything I'm proud of is my level of self-control. I know few of my friends who made fun of me being extremely loyal to one girl, warning me severally that I'm wasting my time and good looks, that my youth is passing me by. At least I have a clean conscience that I never betrayed her trust. I never went about telling other people our business. Now I understand why they say good guys always finish last.


Women don't deserve loyalty, forget all their cliche that men are not faithful and honest. I went the faithful, loyal path what did I get in return? Venom! I feel repulsed when I hear women say "Men are dogs", "Men always cheat".

I just don't want this experience to turn me into something I'm not or make me an embittered soul. I'm traumatized beyond words. This was my first and only relationship and I gave it everything. I'm in my mid-twenties and I don't think I can ever love genuinely again. I need mature advice on how to come out of this ordeal a better person. I don't want to transfer any aggressions or micro-aggressions on anybody because of this experience. Please mature advice needed. Thank you.

I'm not great with advise but I hope this helps.
Sorry bro! I know I cannot quantify your pains with all that is going on right now.
The truth is that the process of getting over it would not just disappear suddenly, you'll have to go through it gradually. Please talk with people who can encourage you properly (like your sisters and mum). I would also advice you cut all ties to your ex now (on all forums). The more you try to reach out to your ex, the more pain you'll cause yourself. I assure you that the night is darkest before dawn. If you believe in God, relay your predicament to him and pray he gives you the grace to weather through it.
I can confidently tell you that you'll get over it if only you persevere. You'll fall in love again (although possibly with some scars). This age grade is one of those trying times which would define who you'd become. Get something which would distract you for a while. It would get better with time.
I know you'll be second guessing your lifelong decisons now. Please don't!! Don't be discouraged. If she couldn't trust you enough to confirm if what she was told is true, then she'd not worthy of you.
Someday the truth of all these would prevail and you'll be triumphant. Just don't let this situation make you a misogynist (I know that tendency is there) or think there's nothing more to life. I believe you'll eventually find someone genuine. Concerning jobs and grad school apps, don't relent. Just get some rest ("Come unto me all ye who labour and are heavy laden and I would give you rest"... Jesus Christ) and then re-fire. You're bright from previous conversations we've had. Some of us have also faced some persecutions like this remember you're not alone!!! You'll rise again!! Don't make any rash decisions at this time till you're more stable.

TheNoble007:
Visa approved this morning at the Abuja consulate. I was scheduled for the 15th of August, but was fortunate to have rescheduled to 9th of August and do you know that I did that on the 7th of August?

Profile - BSc. ( Hons) Physics from the University of Jos Nigeria ( top of graduating class of 2017), 2 Published papers and abstract. Two awards from the American physical society. GRE physics -91 percentile (s). One Harvard e-print( NASA/SAO).

Funding- merit scholarship of $22,627 + teaching assistant position starting Spring. The merit scholarship has nothing to do with the teaching position. Course- masters in optics / optical sciences

Interview : window 8, had rejected someone already before I went to meet him..

VO - Good morning, pass me your passport

Me - hope you slept well! Here is my passport and i20

VO- okay why are you going to the City University of New York?

Me- Apart from the fact I was awarded a generous merit scholarship which of course I am grateful for, I chose this school because of the on going research of my..... VO cut in... He was amazed at the scholarship amount.

VO - how did you get this scholarship?

Me - my excellent undergraduate grades, previous research and awards... Cuts in again.

VO - which school did you graduate from?

Me- University of Jos, Nigeria

VO- that's a very good school you know.. I concurred.

VO- okay, what's optical science?

Me- I was surprised at the question, but I went ahead to give him a detailed answer.

VO- from your answer, I must tell you that you are a credible student.

Me- thank you sir.

VO- Great, but you know that New York is very expensive.. I have been there when I went for a burial.. I couldn't hear him clearly.. I don't want you to go and struggle even though you will be given stipends.. So where are you going to stay? Your accomodation? I don't want you to stay in an uncomfortable housing?.... We both laughed and our laughter echoed. Okay I will be approving your visa but I will advice you, make sure you study well, and don't forget to come back home if things go rough... Congrats again on your scholarship.. Then passes the white pick up paper, and the congratulations slip.. Have a great day.

Me- Thank you very much sir.


NB - I really thank Jesus Christ. If you don't believe in God, please I do. He has led me through since my undergrad days and during the demise of my dad. And I believe He will make me perform exploits..May God name be praised.. I wish those who are yet to be interviewed, a successful visa interview...

Great Jossite!

Congratulations !!
Best days ahead!

OGAPEE:
Good evening honorable and good people of naija. First let me appreciate everyone in this thread, especially bross DanjaNinja who initiated the thread. You guys have been too wonderful and selfless. Nigeria still have good seeds!

Please guys, I need serious guidance and help!
I have barely two months to prepare for GRE, I am taking the exam in November 4th. I will have to take off 3 weeks because i will be spending three weeks in camp, this stream 2 batch b camp. In the past days, I have been trying to study with the materials I got from some pages in this thread. But, I just want to be frank to myself I am just lost in the pool of materials I have gathered, I really need strategic reading and time-productive study! I have very limited time for preparation as this is my first GRE attempt.

What are the very specific materials I can use to prepare intensively for Quant?
Similarly, what are the very specific materials I can use to efficiently prepare for verbal?
I can struggle with the analytical writing, buh I will still appreciate any recommendation.

Please, I need guidance, recommendations and even study partners.
cc
Scholastica, Ponpon Time2win et.al.

Check the Google Drive links on page 428.
I wish you the best!

freshStarz:
Someone pls help

If I understand your post, you may resume next January for Spring 2020 and your international passport would expire in December 2020.
That's at least 10 months left on it by January 2020.
It seems you're good to go since you require at least 6 months on the international passport. I stand to be corrected.

shams040:
Hello All,

I have been a silent reader here and will like you guys to recommend US schools for me.

B.sc Urban and regional planning 3.95/5
M.sc civil engineering by Research, Malaysia (on-going, 4th month since commencement), 1 book chapter accepted and 4 other research article and review in process.

IELTS 6.5

Work experience : 2years as a Town planner, Current Graduate Research Assistant and taking 2 course

New interest : Phd civil engineering or Urban and Regional Planning.
Area of specialization (Climate change, disaster prediction and management using geospatial tool and machine learning.

Intending application period 2020

You're welcome.
You've got a good profile and the truth is you're probably the best person who can decide on what schools to apply to. You should also be preparing towards writing your standardised tests and writing a great statement of purpose.
Make use of the profile evaluation on "msinus" to evaluate which category your profile falls into. (A+, A, B+,...).
Make use of Gradcafe + your program name (e.g., Gradcafe Civil engineering) to find results of admitted, rejected and funded students in US schools.
Most importantly check program websites of the schools you come up with for faculty who share similar research interests. Contact these individuals (they may currently have funded projects and need GAs) and the program's graduate coordinator to have an idea of the possibility of being admitted into their program and consequently about being funded as a graduate assistant. There's a manner of sending these cold mails (I.e., from the content of the subject of your email to its body). You should find posts that guide you on crafting a good email on this thread.
Connect with current students such as international graduate assistants in these schools on forums like LinkedIn for some inside info.

Cheers!!

ponpon:
At some point I’ll like us to discuss masters va PhD and jobs after school tho.

Many people dey carry head to PhD asap, Yankee sweet oooh

Interested

oyatospecial:
Good evening everyone. I'm new on this thread. I'm about completing my Masters degree here in Nigeria and I don't know how possible it is for me to apply for another Masters programme in the US.
I would have love to proceed for a PhD but I don't think I'm ready for it.
I will like to know what you guys think about applying for another Masters programme and the possible challenges I may encounter. Thank you

A lot of people have gone through this route. One challenge I envisage is that of convincing a consular officer why you are carrying out another Masters program during your F1 visa interview rather than a PhD. You still have a long time to prepare a great case which you can present to a consular officer. Another challenge might be that of securing full funding; it appears to be that the possibility of getting funding for a PhD is easier than for a masters. Above all ace your standardized tests, write a captivating statement of purpose, get good recommendations, carrying out good research on which schools to apply to and you're good to go. Your CGPA also counts in the admission and funding process. You should read through posts here from at least the past one year and you'd get a clear understanding of my explanation.

Personally I feel you should go ahead with making PhD applications especially if your profile is good.

All the best!!

Banks92:
Thanks my brother
I understand better now. so I guess the cost to factor in for the whole process will be:

1. Cost of securing admission (GRE, Admission fee)
2.Cost after the admission (Visa fee, Sevis etc, flight)
3. Cost in the US (Accommodation and feeding)

The 2000 - 3000 you mentioned is to cover 2 and 3 right?

Also how difficult is it to secure funding for Masters?

Thanks for all the help bro.

.

Banks92:
Thanks my brother
I understand better now. so I guess the cost to factor in for the whole process will be:

1. Cost of securing admission (GRE, Admission fee)
2.Cost after the admission (Visa fee, Sevis etc, flight)
3. Cost in the US (Accommodation and feeding)

The 2000 - 3000 you mentioned is to cover 2 and 3 right?

Also how difficult is it to secure funding for Masters?

Thanks for all the help bro.

You're welcome!
You're kinda right. Although for your number 3, I was referring to just paying for your first month's rent and signing a lease agreement before you begin to get stipends (that's if you're fully funded). Feeding and housing for the rest of your time as a student would be a whole lot than that.
I hear it's more difficult to secure funding for masters, but there are exceptions. I'd advice that you spread your application (MS and PhD). Also ace your standardised tests, get great recommendations and write a wonderful statement of purpose.

Banks92:
Hello People.
I am very new to this process
I graduated in 2015 with a 4.40/5 CGPA.
Looking to apply to schools come fall 2020.
my questions are:
1. I am hoping to get full funding and if I do, how much personal funding will be required that I possess.
2. How can i register for GRE and get materials? Also when is the next exam?

Basically I welcome any info that will help me

You're welcome!
This " personal funding" you're refferring to, do you mean the amount of money you require after securing admission and full funding in a US school or the amount of money you'll require when you're before a Visa officer with full funding?

If it's the latter, you most likely wouldn't be required to show any money before the consular officer (but it's wise you reserve some money at least say for your flight, in case a CO asks you for a statement of account.
If it's the former, you'll need a lot of money which includes the payment of SEVIS and Visa interview fees, payment to send your I-20 by courier to Nigeria, and few other things which may come up such as securing a place to stay in the US, booking a flight, etc (this is aside the money spent on securing admission which is another cost on its own). All of ths could cost you between $2000- $3000 or more depending on the cost of living in your destination in US (our veterans can correct me if I'm wrong).

For the GRE you could contact ponpon or BY Mafit. You'll find some materials here (page 428), but I would strongly advise as mentioned by 4gunners, you read through a lot of recent pages here for guidance.

All the best!!!

Dalmakz:
Transcript for my USA Visa interview
Location: Abuja
Date: 25th June, 2019

Profile
B.Eng in Mechanical Engineering
MSc in Materials Science and Engineering
Taken GRE: Yes
Taken TOEFL: Yes
Academic Start Session: Fall 2019
Course of study: PhD Systems Engineering (Option of Mechanical Engineeing)
School: Univeristy of Louisianna lafayette (ULL)
Fully Funded: Yes





I got to the venue by 8:42am for a 9.00am appointnent. I was happy I used taxify as I felt I had eluded the rain, but little did I know that the rain had other plans for me. I actually thought the taxi could go into the premises but the mobile police men no gree o. As the car stopped, hustlers were already everywhere offering me umbrella as it was raining heavily. So I got down and stood with one of them who was a lady under her umbrella (this didn't even prevent the rain from beating me). Luckily for me she was igbo so it was easy to bargain with her how much it would cost to keep my phones in her possession. I was really skeptical about giving her my phone but I no get option so I just gave her everything and took down her details on a paper. She then walked me into the embassy. It was raining heavily... you know that type of rain that comes with the wind. Before i could get to where we would be checked in, I was already was practically soaked from hair to toe. I started feeling cold and feverish but I no send... I told myself, it is either you get this vis today or you die here today...

So after all the check in and biometrics process, I was directed to windows 7 which had a Male VO who was very strict. I was the last in the line so after so time, the usher directed me to go to windows 10 which had a female VO.

Fast forward to my turn...The VO was a white lady. Very friendly. She approved the lady before me. She was not in a haste and was not in a habit of cutting people off as they were talking. And so it got to my turn..

VO Signals me to come) Good morning can I have your I-20 and passport.

Me: Good morning Ma (Passed her my I-20 and pasport)

VO: (Looks at something on my I-20 and starts typing furiously...stops typing after sometime and then looks at my I-20 again and then she says) " wow you have a graduate assistantship, wow, congratulations"

Me: Thank you Ma

VO: Why did you apply to the ULL?

Me: (so I have been rehearsing this reply before my interview date...I basically fabricated it to be said in less than 30secs)
Basically, the ULL is strongly expertised in my area of interested research which happens to be focused on the "processing and enhancement of semiconductor materials for low K dielectrics". My desire to be at the ULL was further intensified after perusing through the faculty directory and discovering that the research direction of Dr. XXXXXXX is well in line with mine. Having communicated with her, she was willing to admit me into her research group as my supervisor. With all these in mind, I tendered in an application, knowing this would be a good fit for my PhD plans
(she was just nodding as she was typing and looking at me...mehn her eyes was not on the computer but was on me...)

VO: Have you finished your master's degree program?

Me: Yes. I concluded my program on the 1st of July at the African University of Science and Technology Abuja.

VO: Have you been employed before?

Me: Yes. After my NYSC, I worked for a period of 8 months as a graduate trainee at the XXXXXXX where they assemble and manufacture cars.

VO: What other schools did you apply to? How many admitted you ?

Me: I also applied to the University of Nebraska Lincoln (UNL) and Michigan Technological University (MTU). MTU rejected me while UNL accepted me.

VO: Did you write TOEFL and GRE

Me: Yes. I told her my scores.

VO: Tell me about your research area for your PhD program in systems engineering?

Me: My primary research would be focused on the deposition and characterisation of low K materials (SiCOH) using plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD).

VO: what are low K materials?

Me: (At this point i was determined to explain to her in the best way I could) Low K materials are materials that have a low dielectric constant. They are used to make the components of an integrated circuit. Remember that there was a time that this computer you are using right now was not like this, it was quite bigger and not as swift as it is now (she affirmed yes). So in other to transform it to what it is today, it faced a miniaturaization. The miniaturization of devices have lead to improved performance but however, the set back is the interconnect-induced delay called the RC delay. Low dielectric constant materials as an interconnecting insulator insulator in integrated circuits are essential for resistance-capacitance (RC) time delay.....

VO: What will this degree do for you?
Me: It is my desire to be a top researcher and a lecturer in my field in a Nigerian Institution to help produce intelligent and ambitious minds who would work tirelessly to revolutionalise Nigeria. As such, getting a PhD degree is a pertinent requirement in achieving this.

VO: Did you agree to go to this school because of the funding?

Me: No ma. Basically, almost all PhD programs are fully funded. I went for the ULL because of...

VO: (She cuts me) I will be approving your Visa. Once again congratulations on your graduate assistantship. Its indeed a great one. You will be needing your I-20 at the point of entry. She then gave me a white paper...

Me: I was just looking at her eye balls... I was so overwhelmed. I told her thank you...

While I was leaving the building I kept a straight and hard face like i was rejected so that those police officers would not task me... Gave the lady that kept my phones for me 1500 for me and that was it...

Thanks to everyone who has ever posted on this thread....
Pardon my typo error if any...

Congrats to another Ragin Cajun !!

yinkard4me:
Many thanks

You're welcome

yinkard4me:
Glad to be here finally, a lot to learn from you wonderful people. Just recently considering a PhD degree in the US. The plan is fall 2020. Here is my brief profile,
Graduated with a distinction in M.Sc (6.3/7.0).
I have 14 publications to my name and 3 citations from foreign authors.
Two years experience as a lecturer in a federal institution.
Please I need GRE materials and other helpful hints/materials. Thank you

You've got a good CGPA and would have ample time to prepare. You should check the GRE thread and you'll learn a lot (the link's below). The free materials on the group are on page 428.

https://www.nairaland.com/1832477/how-achieve-high-scores-gre

All the best!

Danikal:
VISA EXPERIENCE:

SCHOOL: MOREHOUSE COLLEGE
RECEIVED $35K SCHOLARSHIP, DEFICIT: $13K

Abuja Consulate, Thursday 18th 7:30am

I was really nervous during the process, especially when on the interview queue!!! The Lady wasn't smiling at all, dishing out green papers anyhow, denied 5 people in front of me, then next, I was like do you mean me?�

Me: Good Morning

V.o: Pass me your passport and i20

Me: Here you go

V.O: Why this School?

Me: Aside the fact that I was one of the few students who got selected into the oprah winfery scholars program at Morehouse college, am so interested about an on campus program, called Google in residence program, every year, Google assigns(Cuts in)

V.o: How did you get this scholarship?

Me: The oprah winfery scholars program is a very competitive program that is reviewed based on leadership Experience, community service exercises, good academic abilities, $5000 or less family contributions, and (cuts in)

V.o: What things did you do that made you qualify?

Me: I volunteered with rotary international for 4months for a field project in Northern Nigeria where I was raised, I was the vice president of my debate club in school, assistant band leader, plus my family's EFC which is less than $5000 as one of their requirements

V.o: Okay, what other schools gave you good options?

Me: I got into New Jersey Institute of technology, Rollins college, Clark Atlanta, Northern state, and Philander Smith College, and Birmingham Southern

V.o: Do you have a relative in the US?

me: Yes, but not a direct relative

V.o: I will be approving your Visa, here is an instruction to pick up your passport.

That's it broskis����
Collected my passport yesterday..

APPRECIATION:
All thanks to God Almighty, if not for his Grace, I don't know what could have been of me.
Also, to MR. Fairheart, I remember mailing you since last year, seeking your opinion on college applications and then to Visa application and mock interview, all the chats, calls, advice and all, you've been really helpful to me and my colleagues. God bless you Abundantly Sir.
Also to Mr. Sherlock777, your person is one to emulate, your Apt response and advice gave me a firm assurance towards that day, I appreciate you real good!

Thank you Nairaland family, I've followed this thread since part 12, and it's a dream come through for me posting my own transcript today..�
And to all the Visa experts here, may God bless y'all efforts of kindness.. Amen

I'm so happy for you.
The best is about to come!!

Oasishavenng:
Long post alert.
I have been waiting a long while for this.
I wrote my first GRE 2014 (313), first toefl 2015(106).
First set of application was 2016, 3 schools ( university of Arkansas, West Virginia University and Wayne state university) 2 rejects and 1 admit.

Rewrote GRE 2016 (320) and applied to 3 schools again. I had 1 admit again. I went to the Embassy Aug 2017 and I was denied based on insufficient funds in the Statement of account.

Started application late 2018 again, rewrote TOEFl (100) again as the first one had expired. Applied to three schools again.
Course: Industrial Engineering
Schools: west Virginia University, Texas A and M university and University of new haven.

And finally I got admit in all three schools, got some sort of funding from all. I went with wvu and I finally got the visa.

Basically just saying that our dreams are valid and we should never give up on them. It will end in a win.
Will drop my transcript soon

True resilience!!
Best years lie ahead!

TheZed:
Appreciation Post

I want to take this time out to appreciate everyone that have contributed to my journey so far. Firstly, I’d like to exalt the King of all Kings for his infinite love over my life.

Glitteringstar—I really hope this beautiful soul is reading this presently or sometimes in the future. I have never met her neither have we spoken on phone before. However, She did contributed to my GRE payment in 2017. That GRE gave me admission, funding and consequently visa to finally achieve my dreams. Ma’am, I tried to reach out to you after my visa was approved but the email address you used to contact me is no more active.
Also, I want to appreciate those that used Walspring to subsidize GRE fee around that time too. I benefited from that benevolent gesture.

Happyday—The resume and SOP I used was all due to your kind assistance—He was readily available to make corrections and contributions even with his tight schedule.

Lastly, A big thank you to Oluwaseun Osewa for creating this wonderful repository of information—nairaland. I really don’t know how the trajectory of my life would have been if I haven’t come across nairaland, this thread and the beautiful souls that have graced it.

There are so many others on and off this thread both home and abroad that was of immense help in so many ways. I want you all to know that I’m eternally grateful. I pray this very moment for you all, whatever your heart desires, God will grant them to you.

Kind Regards,
A grateful heart

So happy for you!! This is just the beginning of greater things!!

Yes, we have
Fall '19

Susanna12:
Hello everyone, I've been following this thread off and on for a while now.

I intend to apply for fall 2020. My profile...
B.Tech Transport Management Technology
GPA: 4.19/5 ( 3.53/4 WES unofficial)
TOEFL: 114
GRE: Q152 V152 AWA3.0

I want to apply for masters in Transport/Logistics/Supply chain management. From my research I identified the following schools and preferred masters couses:

Ohio State University- Business Logistics Engineering
Florida Institute of Technology- Logistics Management
University of Texas at Arlington- Logistics
SUNY maritime college- International Transportation Management and
University of Houston- Supply chain and logistics technology.

Please does anyone know if any of these schools is generous with funding for my course or have other recommended schools I could look at with my profile in consideration?

Any advice would be very welcomed. Thanks

You have a good profile (especially that your TOEFL )
Check out "gradcafe" - type in your course name in their search engine and you'll find a lot of info. Also check out the profile evaluation on "MSinUS". I'd advice you use MSinUS first before Gradcafe. Also network with current Graduate Assistant in those schools on LinkedIn, they may guide you rightly.
Contact Graduate Coordinators and Professors of Interest; their responses should inform your decision.

I wish you the best !!

The house is really silent this year!!

Sammiel:
Last night, I was able to message WAEC Lagos office directly through their contact email address and they listed all that is required in their reply to my e-mail. Thanks very much for your comment Sir, I do appreciate it.

Nice. You're welcome.

Sammiel:
I still need an answer to this question of mine.

You'll probably get an answer here, but you should also make this post on the Canadian thread. There should be one on nairaland.

Cheers!!

calculator123:
Congratulations Sherlock. Welcome to Trump's land

Thanks.
So glad we made it!

Sorry I have to place this here,
But it is appalling when an individual believes his/her opinion is superior to another's with regard to religious beliefs. With this said, I strongly recommend we respect everyone's religious orientation. No matter how one emphasizes ones opinions, you cannot change everyone's belief.
Those who believe there's no God should allow those who believe there's one to continue believing and those who believe in God cannot also impose their beliefs on anyone. (Let Baal defend himself). We all without an iota of a doubt will know if there's a God after death (for those who believe or don't believe in the afterlife). I hope it wouldn't be a terrible way of finding out about this existence or non-existence.


Abeg let me post my transcript as I remember it :

Abuja Consulate.

8th July, 2019.

Window 8/9 (Can't recall, but last window on the right when facing the VO)

White lady (She was typing most of the time).

Me: Good morning
VO: Good morning.

Pass me your passport?
Your I-20 too.
Have you travelled before?
Me: No
VO: What would you be doing in the US?
Me: I would be going for my masters in Geology at ULL.
VO: What are you currently doing?
Me: I am a Grad Assistant at University of **** (From her countenance, I felt she didn't want any more response, so I didn't say more)
VO: What would you do when you get back?
Me: I would come back to my current job. This masters degree would enable me get to the rank of an Assistant Lecturer at the University of ****. I also intend to create a research lab, a Petroleum Geoscience research lab, alongside my colleague and in the long run I hope to join a Research Group or Institute. (She was typing and nodding as if I don dey talk too much sef. (I think she saw my Graduate Teaching Assistantship at ULL)
VO: Who would be funding the remaining cost?
Me: My mum and elder sister.
VO: What do they do?
Me: My mum and sister are lecturers in Nigerian Universities, and my sister is currently carrying out a fully funded PhD.
VO: Where is she carrying out this PhD?
Me: The United Kingdom.

Your Visa has been approved.
She gave two slips and said some other stuff I tried to listen to well but can't recall now. ☺

I did my due diligence. I ensured I filled every document completely and accurately, but I would not deny the God factor from how I got a First Class result, getting a job,
being funded till when I was issued a Visa. (All of these played a role in my success). He is merciful!

Profile:
BSc Geology and Mining
4.59/5.00
GRE: 311 - Q/V - 157/154 (Analytical writing - 4)
Experience: Few months of being a University Lecturer at time of application.
Applied to three schools: only one acceptance and was awarded a Graduate Teaching Assistantship (Tuition ($25212) waived) even after being waitlisted by two schools and told that I didn't qualify for the second round of offers.
Defit/Living expenses is $10848. I'll work for just 10 hours weekly.

1 publication in an open access journal.

3 Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) certificates from reputable schools in the world.

No documents aside my international passport and Form I 20 were requested from me by the VO.

God's grace was really evident. I was shocked when the VO said approved. I actually expected many more questions which I had answers to.

Two things that are noteworthy are (1) Please mind what you post online (it's good to have and share your opinions but our rights end where it infringes on another person's rights) and (2) Be careful on how you fill your DS 160 (Fill it as completely and accurately as possible).

I thank those who helped me prepare with my mock interviews.

I wish other hopefuls the best in their endeavours!!

4gunners:
Let me give a summary of my fall 2019 admission journey..

I applied to 4 schools(msc/phd civil engineering), unfortunately, none funded me.

My profile - GRe 313 (Q154, V159, AW3.5)
TOEfL 95
1 project
GP - 3.54/4 ( unofficial wes)

Admit
MTU - MS Civil Engineering (stingy school, not surprised)
USF - MS ( no funding as well)
University of Arkansas - PhD( funding promise not fulfilled. A prof is still playing "politics" with me - hopefully... )
UNH - MS ( 30% scholarship. Not interested )

Reject
University of Washington - Phd( painful rejection.I should av used the app fee to apply to lesser schools. $90 "stolen".

Giving up is not an option. So, I'll refire....Any advice will be highly appreciated. Thanks.

This a lot to handle. When I got no funding initially I felt quite hopeless, because of the time, effort and money I put in then.
I believe you'll be fine once you refire. I think you should focus on departments where you would secure more than one POI, in case the funding doesn't come through.
I almost fell victim of this. The school I had the most assurances from rejected me since the POI couldn't secure anticipated funds (This was my safe school). We had been in communication so many times.
I believe you'll be fine
Also ensure your SOP and Recommendation letters are strong.

Brace up!! I know it wouldn't be easy, but I know it is worth it at the end.

My bet is on you!!

Yes we can!! Fall/Spring 2020

graciousify:
What is POI please

Professor/Person of Interest. It means a Potential Research Supervisor.

iamblisz:
No see. I'm still here pushing it, struggling to cross the average mark on the GRE.

You should keep trying. Change study strategies if possible.
You'll forget about all this stress when it works out.