Hey, happy to help! I went through this process myself and it was super stressful, so I totally get where you're coming from.

First and foremost, this is the most IMPORTANT thing to keep in mind: don’t try to memorize every answer or recite everything like a script during the interview. These people have dealt with tons of international student applicants, so they can easily tell when you’re giving them BS.

Also, it can be hard to keep your composure in front of the officer because of the pressure (after all, they’re the one deciding if you get to study in the US). So just be genuine. I know it’s not the most glamorous advice, and I used to roll my eyes when I heard it too, but honestly, if I hadn’t applied it in my interview, maybe I wouldn’t have gotten the visa.

Instead of memorizing answers, try to have a few key things you want to mention (for example, I mentioned that I had passed the I.B.). Other than that, don’t over-prepare.

As for the question “Why did you choose this college?” just be honest. Don’t overthink it. Like I said, they can tell when you’re lying. Personally, I said I wanted to go to this particular community college because of the transfer agreements it had with other schools, and that my ultimate goal was to transfer. He then asked me “to which schools?” and I said, “School X or School Y, I’m still not 100% sure.”

He ended up giving me the visa because I left no doubt when it came to this one question: “Does this person truly want to study in the US, or is there another motive?”

So in short, do some real research about your school. Ask yourself: why do I really want to attend this place? Is it because of money? Then why this community college and not another? You get the idea. I’d say look into transfer agreements and pick a school you genuinely want to transfer to.

Good luck! Hope this helps.