The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reported a notable increase in visa denials, particularly for employment-based immigrants, attributed to policies from the Trump administration. This surge in denials has raised concerns among economists about the impact on the US economy, especially in sectors like technology and medicine. Former US consular officer Christa Byker offers valuable insights for applicants, stressing the importance of preparation before the initial interview. She explains that many applicants misinterpret the nature of the interview, focusing too much on documentation rather than their ability to communicate effectively under pressure. Byker also clarifies that perceived rudeness from visa officers often results from their stress and fatigue rather than intentional hostility. She encourages applicants to view a second interview as an opportunity to clarify their situation rather than a setback, and suggests that morning interview slots may lead to slightly better outcomes. Overall, Byker emphasizes that many applicants wait until after a rejection to seek strategies, which can lead to preventable mistakes.