Standing before the U.S Consular with the desire to attend a conference abroad or an opportunity to advance your study abroad; may be an anxious moment. You look at the young man/woman that is capable of saying “NO you are denied a Visa” or “YES, your visa is granted, make your travel plans and do have a safe travel.” I understand that this comes with a bit of anxiety. Thoughts of what will happen if denied, and the fantasy of what will follow if granted. Mixed feelings all together. The consular want to ensure that you are going to the U.S on a mission that is worthwhile. They are saddled with the responsibility to vet and ensure that people do not just come to the States without genuine and legal reasons. I respect that, and from that point of view, it is important that you present your case with clarity, such that helps the consular make up his mind easily in your favor. How do you do this? I am a proponent of this old say: “How you dress will determine how you are addressed. You do not have to be suited up but at least be in business casual outfit, if not fully official dress. Simple, neat and responsible outfit sends a signal to the consular. It helps to rank you among the set of purposeful U.S visa applicants. Believe it or not, this is the first impression to the consular. Second is your opening statement: Anywhere in the world, a good morning is appreciated with a look into the eyes of your consular. It speaks confidence and sincerity. Do this with an open face and little smile. Third: Do not be nervous. A denial is not the end of your world. Settle that within you before the interview. The big one is the elevator speech. Many times, they ask you an open ended question like “Why do you want to go to the United States?” If going for schooling; “What do you intend to do with the degree?” Answering such questions with necessary ingredients that help the consular to know you have a purpose and that you are ready for a future ahead of you makes him to step aside, give you your visa. He wishes you the best in your career and a safe trip to America. Future editions of our blog shall address the ingredients of an elevator speech. At Routeconsult, we specialize in helping you put your purpose together in words, presentable to the consular, SO AS TO OBTAIN YOUR VISA. Believe you me, you have a purpose that is bigger than you and it is worth the stretch. Reach out for it and contact us today at Routeconsult, as we take you from desire to arrivals. We also help you through your school application process for masters or Ph.D. We take over your application process and deliver your admission letter to your door steps. Not only that, we prepare you for your visa interview, help you with a winning statement of purpose and a presentable resume. Only at Routeconsult… Taking you from desire to arrivals.