Fall 2018- F1 Student Visa Experience: (Mumbai Consulate | Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Robotics- Approved)

Background Information:

University: Worcester Polytechnic InstituteProgram: MS in Robotics

Mumbai ConsulateDate: May 2018Result: ApprovedWindow Number: 36

Visa Interview Encounter:

VO: Good morning, hand over your passport.ME: Good morning sir, handed over the passport, along with the I-20 and SEVIS receipt ready.VO: I-20?ME: Handed the I-20 and placed the SEVIS fee payment receipt beneath the folder on the counter ledge in front of me.VO: What field of study are you pursuing?ME: Robotics engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts. (mentally noting that the official major listed on the I-20 is mechatronics, robotics, and automation engineering)

VO: Why this particular university?ME: It features a fantastic project-oriented curriculum which is quite distinct. (The response was not what I had previously rehearsed, forming this sentence on the spot.) Additionally, it boasts 13 dedicated robotics laboratories, and the ongoing research directed by Professor Dr. M. Gemnert at the WHRL lab regarding humanoid robots is exceptional.

VO: Who will be funding your education?ME: My father is sponsoring my studies, and I have also secured an education loan.

VO: What is his occupation?ME: He has been a successful businessman for the past 20 years (though my delivery was a bit rushed at this point). He manufactures transformer radiators.VO: What kind of transformers?ME: Sir, transformer radiators utilized for pipe (correcting a slip of the tongue) oil cooling.

VO: What other universities did you apply to besides this one?ME: Aside from this, I applied to Oregon State University, where...VO: Why only two universities?ME: The specific subjects I wish to focus on are robot dynamics and robot perception, which are best provided by these two institutions within their programs. (Spoke whatever came to mind while maintaining steady eye contact)

VO: Alright, enjoy your stay in the United States.ME: Thank you very much, sir. Have a wonderful day.

Recommendations:

If you genuinely selected the university on your own, simply reflect on the reasons, identify them, formulate well-structured answers at home, and practice with friends, family, or in front of a mirror.

Maintaining eye contact is 100 percent critical; he constantly observed my eyes throughout every question. It felt similar to defending a final year project presentation, since my projects were my true passion and I approached those interviews with the exact same high level of confidence. Remain calm, stay self-assured, and avoid unnecessary conversations with others. Assume every visa officer is approachable and approach the interview prepared for the toughest scenario by relying entirely on your self-belief and hard work.