How to prepare for a US Embassy visit

By sandro on July 14, 2011 in Random

Today I had my Visa appointment at the American Embassy in Bern. Thanks to a school colleague who helped me out last second, everything went fine and I should have my passport back by next Monday.

A few tips for a smooth US-Embassy experience:

  • Always be there one hour earlier than your appointment is set (saves you hours of waiting)
  • You are not allowed to bring any bags or electronic devices (believe me, they check it twice like on the airport!)
  • Prepare ALL documents in advance (yes, they send you home!)
  • In any case, bring a book or something else to read with you. Otherwise you get bored in there really quickly. The only thing they have in there, are “The Economist” issues from the early stone age!

If you happen to apply for a J-1 Student Exchange Visa, here’s the checklist for all documents you need (varies from Visa to Visa, so check individually):

  • 5cm X 5cm passport picture (almost all photographers are doing that for about 35Fr.)
  • Passport (check your expiration date!)
  • DS-2019 form you received from your exchange university
  • DS-160 form you have to fill out and print online
  • SEVIS-Fee payment confirmation (pay here)
  • MRV-Fee payment confirmation (check here)
  • A self-addressed and stamped envelope (so they can send back your passport)
  • Enrollment confirmation from your university
  • Bank statement stating that you can cover your all costs while abroad (appr. 20’000 Fr.)

I hope this helps a little bit!

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On another note, I have passed my exams, which means I can now officially announce my year abroad in New York City!!!!

official confirmation from our dean

 

cheers and till soon,

Sandro

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Ready for Takeoff!

By sandro on July 4, 2011 in Random

Today, on a sunny monday afternoon, I finally put myself together and booked my flight to New York City. My one year adventure starts Tuesday 2nd August 10:40am from Zurich –> London –> arrival 15:40pm at JFK New York. There’s only one piece of luggage à 20 kilos allowed…that’s gonna be interesting!

Other than that, enjoying my last month in Switzerland with lots of sun and beer.

cheers

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Hello “inyork”!

By sandro on June 22, 2011 in inyork

Now that all exams are written, I am bored to death and decided to launch this “online diary” to keep record of my endeavors across the ocean. I am still waiting for my grades and American visa before my one-year adventure to New York City may begin.

Let the girl below give you a first impression…

via mynameispeter

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New York City – Approaching

By sandro on June 22, 2011 in Featured
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