₦airaland Forum

Ohjaybee:
1st interview slated for August 3rd, 6.30am

The visa officer was a lady..
V.O : good morning
Me: good morning ma'am
V.O: what are you going to do in the US
Me: I'm going to study at Madison college
V.O: what will you be studying
Me: It's a liberal arts and science program after which I'd major in Psychology
V.O: so tell me about the program
Me: it's general education is aimed at preparing students for whatever they'd like to major in after transferring credits to get their bachelor's degree in a 4year university.
V.O: so what would you do after getting this associate degree
Me: I intend on transferring the credits to University of Wisconsin, Madison since it's in affiliation with Madison college.
V.O: what subjects are you going to take
Me: maths, English, humanities, social and behavioural sciences, natural sciences (then she cut me off)
V.O: how many schools did you apply to
Me: 3...
V.o: name the other 2
Me: central Wyoming college and kutztown university of Pennsylvania
V.o: how many admitted you
Me: just Madison, I've not gotten any decision from cwc and KU wait listed me(which is the truth, although the next day, I got an email saying I've been admitted to cwc)
V.o: why this school
Me: it's tuition is very affordable, has a very friendly environment towards student of colour, it's class ratio is small hence creating a student-lecturer relationship
V.o: why would you want to spend thousands of dollars schooling in the US amidst the numerous school in Nigeria
Mesurprised though but had to answer) well, psychology is something I'm very passionate about and I'd want to really study it in depth both theoretically and practically, schools here in Nigeria do not really touch the practical aspect (cuts me short)
VO: and what makes you think the schools there do a lot of practical
Me: (taken aback but didn't show it) I've been in close contact with my international education program specialist from the school and she let me in on all I need to know
VO: who's sponsoring you
Me: my uncle
Vo: what does he do
Me: he's a medical doctor and a business man
Vo: (emphasizing) what does he do for a living, I know he's a medical doctor, what does he do for a living
Me: (went blank and said) he's into wholesale business of.... (she cut me short and started typing and then handed me the blue paper and said those words nobody would wanna hear

I highlighted the area that really killed your chances.

1. You're going to study at a community college
2. You're then transferring to a 4 year degree in philosophy.

There is nothing "practical" about philosophy that you cannot get in Nigeria. It's just that simple. Clearly the VO thinks this is simply a ruse to go stay in the US.

I know a lot of really loud folks here waffle on about being able to obtain visas to study at community colleges. But the fact is that these are in the very tiny minority. Most applicants to community colleges are refused visas... simple.

Richiy:
Please what is wrong with the people here? I asked to know stuff about ETSU and I am termed unserious. I guess you guys did not understand where I was coming from. I just need to know someone that has passed through the process and can put me through. This is NOT my first admit, I have my TOEFL and GRE and I want to try again.

The essence of my question is to NOT make any mistake with application. Of course I know Google and their website but isn't the idea of this forum to help each other succeed?

I have given out information before to people I don't even know just out of my need to make sure that as I am winning, others are winning with me.

So WTF is wrong with what I asked?

C.C ecoleco and TWoods

The problem is that most of the people here (i assume) have jobs to do and lives to live... that means everyone has limited time and cannot respond to every question. It does not help your case that you become belligerent because no one has answered you as promptly as you want.

There is nothing difficult about applying to US schools. Everything you need is spelled out on their website (serious schools) and should you have questions, they always provide an email address and phone number for a member of staff dedicated to answering such queries as you might have. Frankly, you don't need this website to apply to ETSU. I just checked their website and they have a very clear and detailed description of how to apply, what fees to pay, how the fees can be paid etc. So exactly what is your question?

tomisinobm:
Apparently, he got his visa with his CC without "lying".
Get your facts straight before concluding on people's cases, pal.

You seem to be very angry... I have zero idea why you seem to be drinking water on behalf of others.

iekene:
Probably you didn't understand my previous post. No one is relying on US Government to fund college cost,It is not a "Funded" agreement, it is a privilege given to students who attend California community colleges and display outstanding leadership skills in various areas. Fortunately the Transfer Agreement Plan works for all including International Students. More 97% admitted International students admitted here with me plan to transfer to a 4 year California University. They are from other countries, I am the only Nigerian among them I obtained my Visa with a Community College i20 not a University. I discussed this transfer option with the VO and i was issued a Visa.

You could google this, you probably would understand better.

Well good for you. At least one person who was straightforward with his plans.

DeeTus:
Take it easy, brother! No one on this earth has a perfect life. (100 percent life). That is why we are human.

There are other important reasons many folks go to CCs. One of it is immigration.

Do not sound as if things are 100 percent okay for you. Whatever difficulties anyone is having right now. All I am saying is that do not give up. Because life itself is a journey. Sometimes, the road is smooth and sometimes it is bumpy.

Roads are only bumpy if you make them to be.

EZEIGBO1OFIMO:
Twoods, haven't you learned yet?, when a Nigerian talks about learning everything, they mean, the other ogbonge Tori, that will involve some mende mende .

Oh ok! Of course... all by "god's" grace. Nigerians.

iekene:
@bold I do say that's one of the reasons but not the top reason. I study in a community College in California and one of the top reasons why people study here is because it gives them a sure link to transfer to a Top School in California Such as UCLA, Berkley, e.t.c. This Top universities have an agreement with community colleges in California to accept their Students who have good grades and have engaged in some form of extra curricular activities such as joining the student body, volunteering/Community Service, sports e.t.c and the transfer rate from past years is good.

So if your career goal is studying in a Top California University, a California community college is one of the sure paths there, it isn't always about the cost.

That is a privilege reserved for US citizens, not Nigerians. That "agreement" is funded by taxpayers. You did not contribute to it and should not rely on it. You are required to be able to afford your college costs without needing to work or recourse to government funds. You would not have obtained a visa if you had indicated you were going to study at such a CC. It is therefore dishonest to lie that you're going to a top school and can afford it, only to get into the US and then take the spot of a deserving US citizen in a CC.

akandry:
I totally disagree with you choosing to study in a cc doesn't mean you ain't a serious student, I'm currently studying in a cc because It fits into my career goal and also it's cheap for me. I know lot of guys here in the state that comes in with a top uni visa for a Bsc program and later transfer to cc what will you say about them? we all have our opinions why we go for what we want and it's not necessary to keep following a path because everyone goes on that same path set a part that fits into your goals and go for it have a blessed day.

I'd say they are basically cheating the system and why no one relies on anything we say. We lie at visa interviews that we can afford huge tuition bills, we back it up with fake or borrowed bank accounts... then run to the states and promptly change schools.

You're studying in a CC, not because it fits into your career goal, but because its cheap. Plain and simple.

Richiy:
I need to know EVERYTHING about ETSU.

Someone please let me know how to go about it.

Thank yall

www.google.com and www.ETSU.edu

Emmyirab:
Hello guys.. my second visa interview is on the 17th.
I have prepared answers to some questions I think I would be asked that day. School resumes Sept. 8th and this might be my last shot for this semester.
Pls guys, help analyze, criticise and make possible corrections to it..
Cc OGreene, Texrem, Lagosismyhome, AfonjaBoston, Walspring.



Why BYUI?

Of all the schools I applied to, ByuI combines mechatronics, robotics and thermal science as a specialization in mechanical engineering.
And they is an ongoing project I checked into, Super mileage dynanometer. This projects involves us building a dynanometer that mimic the load a car experiences on a road. With this, we can map out engine performance and also help optimize vehicles to avoid break down and accidents. This is really needed in Nigeria.
In addition, students in ByuI are made to live by a honor code that ensures abstinence from alcohol, academic honesty and proper dressing and grooming. This makes me feel safe attending ByuI.

What will this course do for you?

It will help with the technical skills, experience and exposure required to work in a multinational firm like chevron or shell and also help me achieve my goals of one day owning an automotive firm.


What have you been doing since graduation?

I finished highschool in June 2014, then by September 2014, I started a computer training institute, computer gardens. I did this for three months. Then by February 2015, I decided to get practical experience then I started helping out in my dad's plumbing firm. I helped in transporting and fixing pipes, plumbing machines and tools in homes and offices. That's what I have been doing till now.


Why did you apply to only schools in the Midwest?

Its just coincidence. I searched for schools that offered mechanical engineering with great domain for practical learning. Then I came up with these schools.


What is your study plan?

I will be going for my bachelors in mechanical engineering at ByuI. I will be required to take 120 credits in a duration of 48 months. I will be taking courses like parametric CAD, Science foundation, Introduction to engineering. When I graduate, I will return to Nigeria to work for a multinational firm, say shell or chevron.


How did you hear about the school?

I searched for schools that offered mechanical engineering with specialization in mechatronics, using usnews, Princeton review and google.

You seem interested in automotive engines but then want to work for Chevron and Shell?

iphiechuks:
Good day diranseun,

VO said something about your issue. It will save you alot of hurt if you go to the first page and read it up yourself cos the moderator pushed it to the first page. There is no point letting pple do mathematics on top of your matter, since this is your first issue after 5 years of marriage, it is natural that pills might distort your wife's normal circle, even the VOs are not this judgemental but as you know, nobody will determine your outcome in the end except the responsible officers. We are all here to say our bit.

In summary, chose btw this two options the one that your risk appetite can carry as contained on the VO's input.

Option 1, get yourself equiped with all documentations for giving birth eg, doc correspondences, plenty cash and convincing power at POE and travel.

Option 2, Fill anther form, schedule another interview and explain yourself better to the VO still equip with all documentations including budget sheet and above all, please put God first.

Congrats.

Case closed.

akandry:
it's people like you that motivates me, I guess the young man has a reason why he chose a cc over uni let him go for what he wants rather than you making fun of him have a blessed day.

He chose it, either because it was cheap or had very low entry requirements. One thing is clear, he did not choose a cc because he was interested in seriously studying in school. These are things the VOs read through easily and is why many end up getting denied despite all their wasted fasting and praying.

Bottomline, 99.9% of serious students are not on this thread. These students know exactly what they need to do and start preparing for admissions to top schools over a year in advance. You will never see these folks coming here to ask silly questions like "where can i find schools with free application fee", you will never find them here seeking mock interviews (because they don't have a reason to lie or rehearse), most importantly, you won't find them here panicking about visa appointments scheduled a mere days before classes resume! These smart kiddos already obtained their visas in May/June. All we are left with are the desperados, the unserious and the lazy. To be honest, sometimes it's fun coming here to read and laugh when i have nothing else to do. But of course... "your case is different".

cmbagwu:
I have chosen to defer till Spring 2018 coz school (New Mexico Highlands University) resumes on the 15th and I don't want to start explaining and speaking English at the POE.. Let me give myself time.

You really could not find a better school?

diranseun:
Good day. Pls I need your advice on my issue. Had a successful interview in June and after that we realized wife was 10 weeks pregnant. (we were not sure because of some pills she used which the doctor said could affect her monthly period. This is our first issue after 5 years of coming together). The issue now is that the visa is tourist visa and no question about pregnancy was asked during interview. We have the plan of giving birth in US and how due date is November. How do you think we can go about it to avoid being turned back. Also, we plan to stay in an hotel in Houston. Please your candid advise would be appreciated.

I'm not a woman, but even i can tell that the above makes no sense.

choco7:
Just make sure you have enough money wen travelling and have a Dr n hospital..... So many people here applied and didn't state dey were pregnant intentionally or not...
I applied for a vacation and now am here to give birth.....
Don't let anyone discourage you.
I had so many negative response and high bp. I said Bleep it, packed my bag travelled n easy entry at POE

Good luck applying to renew your visa.

signature2012:
Very very wrong of you.

What's wrong about it?

Ability247:
Of course it's no right; but then VOs that do grant visas for less 'stellar' courses/responses are also doing their job according to the law… unless you think otherwise. The only reason he was denied was that discrepancy in his i20 and DS160. Once that is cleared and the guy tries again with more preparation, I believe he will get the visa for that course. There is nothing wrong with studying that course in the US/anywhere overseas… or any course for that matter, so long as you can make a convincing case.

We don't know why VOs approve or deny folks. The best we can do is speculate. That being said, there are some simple things we can pick up. We know that VOs have a zero tolerance for inaccuracies. they say it here all the time. If you're going for public affairs, well there should be zero reason you present an I20 that says something different at your interview when you've had all day to correct it.

Secondly, we have no idea why those with "less stellar" courses are granted visas. Could it be they have better ties which our man here does not have?

Ability247:
People have been granted visa for less 'stellar' courses/responses. The dude just met a hardnut and should study more so as to make a stronger case and try again.

He didn't meet a hardnut, just a guy doing his job according to the law. There is no right to an f1 visa.

EZEIGBO1OFIMO:
Yet another sound interview , and yet VO plays god again.

Let's face it, there is nothing special about a public administration degree in the US. You can get the same degree in Nigeria for far less. No wife, no kids, no real reason to return after school. Pretty straightforward denial.

pandamonium:
So, what are the likely consequences/implications or merits/demerits of the situation?

You don't want to ever be in a position where you're ever out of status in the US for more than 6 months at a time. You become ineligible to adjust status in the US, if at all possible.

EZEIGBO1OFIMO:
T[b]he real reason behind all these unnecessary choice of school reasons, is the Visa officers themselves; they are looking for poetry where there is no art[/b]. Person picked a school, Finito!!!!!!!. If all F1 seekers had life figured out, them no go dey stress body for Walter Carrington jare.

Here is the problem... the VOs know for certain that the majority of folks applying for F1 visas are simply using it as a means to immigrate to the US. Easy signs are:

1. Choice of school - too often people are selecting schools that no one has heard of. Tiny 1 building schools, schools that have accreditation issues, schools with significantly weak entry requirements... what do you expect a VO to think?

2. If you truly are a genuine student, it really should not be a hassle describing why you selected a particular school. This is where VOs are expecting you've done your home work. Here prospective students typically take entire weekends to visit schools of their choice, spend a good deal of time calling up their prospective schools, seeking out alumni or faculty with similar research interests. This is the type of thing the VOs are looking to see, not nonsense about faculty:student ratio or size of building. That tells the VO you basically picked the only school poor enough to grant you an I20.

Luxxycool:
VO: Good morning
me: good morning

vo: where are you going in America
me: Atlanta Georgia to visit my sister

vo: I see you are on uniform, what level are you in the civil service
me: Level 9

vo: have you ever travelled out of Nigeria before?
me: Yes I've been to Ghana with my family on vacation

vo: I see you went to University of Ibadan...
me: yes I had my masters here

vo: what year did you finish
me: 2013

vo: Are you married?
me: yes I am with a daughter

vo: I'm sorry you do not qualify to be granted visa at this time, please you can try again later.

This happened today 13th...to be candid someone filled the form for me and it was this morning I got the print out only to discover that some of the information filled were not correct but I told them the truth though different from what the person Imputed. Example, my MSc graduation year was 2013 but the person wrote 2012, secondly I studied psychology but the person put sociology. my question is, by the time I'm reapplying this time next year, I would have read all the pages in this topic and I'll sure fill it myself, would it be right to make the corrections on the new application having it in mind that its different from the one they have on their data base? I appreciate the good people on this forum may God continually bless you all.

Sigh. God will still bless us anyway. Why screw yourself up so badly using an agent? This application will always be available to the next VO and you'll have to explain the discrepancy.

Pidgin2:
When the likes of maternal and ugosample are busy with their hate campaign against Nigeria, posting rubbish on the internet, how will we be respected by other countries like Qatar?

So you think the posts of 2 individuals here is why Nigeria isn't on the list? Nothing to do with the pervasive corruption and poverty in your country? Nothing to do with a country so lawless that it's president can take 3 month sabbaticals in a foreign country with no consequence? You have your priorities seriously warped.

Kentrasso:
Hi everyone. I'm a first timer here and need some guidance. I want to visit a friend in the US this September for a week. He's going to cover the expenses but I don't know the first thing about applying for a visa. I know the details are somewhere in between the 460 pages of this thread it's difficult to go checking one by one. Please I need
*documents required
* Cost of visa
*interview
And every other information you can give. I'm a rookie o. Thanks in advance

Hmmm

Easylife338:
Hello house please what do I do? I need someone with good experience. My sister is now in Mitigan US. Before she left, we opened a dollar account for her, in the process of opening the account, they said they needed two referees, we got that, after they confirmed that the two referees had called them, my sister tried to check into the hotel today, as they tried to use the card, it fell through. Right now, she sent me a whatsapp message becuase I was asleep, "i'm in trouble, they want to arrest me for fraud". We called the GTbank after five hours of receiving the message, I being one of the referee, called gtbank customer service. I was told they had processed it already that there are few questions she will need to answer, that there is a way she will need to use the card. Who has information on how to go about this? Please.

Not good. You don't want a fraud charge on your record at all - if the ultimate goal is to stay in the US permanently.

All the same, no course for alarm. Your sister has done nothing wrong other than try to use an unreliable Nigerian card. She should simply explain and try to pay by cash, if the hotel would accept.

vivyval:
We are Nigerians and therefore saddled with the innate belief in God from time immemorial. A typical Nigerian believes that God will do everything for him/her. Understand my point, am not imposing belief in God on you, by all means, believe in anything that you fancy; but bringing the contempt to the public demoralizes the many that put their belief in God. For me, being spiritual does not mean suspension of the brain.
Writing 'God', or 'god' makes no difference in this context.
Some peeps here have had the worst interview, but somehow, they got the white paper, while some, after their top-notch preparations and dependence on self were denied. It's all about hardwork and grace. I just wanted to point this out. Cheers.

Not to belabour the point, but the highlighted is just false. We are no more "saddled" (it's not by force really) with an "innate belief" in a God than any other peoples on earth. We are simply religious because it's the last resort for a people racked with poverty and little to no hope. You are not imposing belief in God on me, i am a practicing christian myself... i just find the incessant recourse to "god" here a little too self serving and insincere. We only seem to remember him when we need a visa. Most people here would never fast if they could help it, but they seem to remember to do so when they have a visa interview. Take a cursory look, outside the religion board, this is the only other board that has such overt references to "god"... even at that, it's mostly restricted to visa seeking threads. The very same people, posting on other neutral threads, sound no different from everyone else. Who is deceiving who...

To address the visa issue, the idea that God granted you a visa is complete nonsense. You are granted one if the Visa Officer feels you are qualified for one. Cheers as well.

symbianDON:
I wish the Canadians will allow us to come and help them 'develop' Canada

The Canadians took a look at how you helped "develop" yourselves... they wisely decided to develop themselves without your help.

cosade:
God is not same as "god".

At least someone got the clear distinction I made.

vivyval:
Twood, I have been following your obscure comments about God in all of your posts here; what really did God do to you? It's quiet nauseating ! Please, keep your obvious hatred for God to yourself and do what this thread is for!

You jumped the gun, you should have asked me to clarify my stance first. As is typical of the overly religious Nigerian, you seem to equate "love for god" with ubiquitous using of his name, even when it is not relevant. I do not understand why corrupt people, people who don't prepare in advance, the lazy and those seeking to abuse laws think that god blesses anything they do, as long as they add his name to it. The Bible is clear, God isn't mocked, whatsoever a man does, that shall he reap. I love God... but it's not those that shout lord lord who will enter into the kingdom.

In the very same post by the fellow seeking God for favor for a visa, it is quite obvious many of his proposed visa responses were rehearsed lies. But yet he asks god to bless his labor! Let's be clear, the average Nigerian is about the most religious individual on earth. I guarantee it has zero to do with genuine faith, but a false religiosity borne out of lack and frustration. I'm not impressed by your loud prayers when you need a visa, it's what you do with your faith when no one is watching or when you have all you need that matters most. Good luck.

legrande69:
You're right ... Some V.Os made up their mind to reject you right from the time they see your face.. They don't even ask for supporting documents or confirmation calls.
Sorry bro. Better luck next time
Got denied only yesterday too

That might be true but most likely based on what they read in your application. Accompanying your aunt going for laser eye surgery is not a serious reason to apply for a US visa. People do those surgeries here all the time without needing that much help.