About two weeks ago, I was standing anxiously and nervously in a queue outside of American Consulate General in Shanghai for a visa application. I knew that whether I could go to the Sates for a short business trip depended on a 5 minute interview by visa consul. Though it is not the end of the world even if my application is turned down, I felt my heart beating faster because this trip might mark the turning point of my career.
After a seemingly endless waiting and lengthy procedures, I finally stood in front of an American girl who is at least 10 years younger than I and a very experienced diplomat ( Later I found out ). The following is our conversation to the best of my memory.
Visa Consul ( Hereinafter VC): How are you doing, sir?Dave( Hereinafter D): I am doing great. Thank you and Happy Thanksgiving!VC: Thank you and you too. What is the purpose of your trip?D: It is going to be a multi-purpose business trip. First of all, I am going to visit some of our customers or potential customers in the States. Secondly, I am going to visit Dallas International Lighting Show to gather the first hand information about market trend there. Last but not the least, I will investigate the possibility of setting up a subsidiary in Los Angeles for my company.VC: How long are you going to stay in the United States?D: About one month.VC: How can I believe that you will return to china after this trip?D: Firstly, family bound. I think everybody tells you the same story. But my story is certainly unique. There are three generations of women in my life that are utterly dependent on me. First of all, I have a foster mother who brought me up with great care and affection. Secondly, my wife is currently out of job. Thirdly, I have a 5 year old daughter. I feel it a huge family responsibility to take care of them.Furthermore, I have a good and stable job. I signed a 5 year contract with our company and this year is only my second year.VC: OK. Give me three words that better describe yourself.D: I am a responsible son, loyal husband and caring father.VC: Then, you are the best man in the world!(laugh)D: My wife has never said that.( Laught)VC: I think she will ( Laugh...). You are truly the best man in the world and your application approved and welcome to the States.D: Thank you and again wish you a nice Thanksgiving.VC: Thanks!
Thus ended this successful conversation. I think the success of this interview boils down to the simple facts that I honestly answered her questions, my English is not bad and more importantly, I have a happy family. I believe even more in " Honesty is the best policy in the end".
