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Lilo Pelekai
2h
My Experience at the Asylum Interview (Affirmative)
When USCIS finally scheduled my interview, I felt a mix of relief and frustration. I had waited over eight years, and the only reason I finally got a date was because my lawyers sued them. That lawsuit was a first win — not the outcome, but the movement. Leading up to the interview, I had several prep sessions with my attorney. It involved reviewing every detail of my testimony — the same testimony I submitted years ago — and reliving the very reasons I fled. I didn’t want to revisit it, but I had to. Then came the mock interview. My lawyer acted as the USCIS officer, and honestly, he was very convincing. It shook me, but it prepared me. Interview Day: I arrived at the USCIS building with my attorney. He handled the check-in process while I focused on staying grounded. Despite seeing signs for ICE, I never saw any agents, which brought a sense of reassurance. The officer conducting my interview greeted us with warmth and professionalism. From the moment we sat down, she made it clear that she saw me — not just as a file, but as a person. She apologized for the long delay, explained the process, and reassured me I wouldn’t get a decision that day, but she would do her best to avoid further delays. She took my biometrics (photo and fingerprints), then had me sign two forms, which my attorney reviewed first. She pointed to the huge file beside her and said, “This is your file. I’ve read every single page. Because of the amount of information and what you’ve been through, I want to focus on [my strongest asylum ground].” The interview began with “soft” questions — verifying identity, family details, addresses, when and why I filed, and travel history. Then came the “hard” questions — the core of my case. This is where I told my story. And I cried. A lot. The officer listened with empathy, never rushing me. At times, she had tears in her eyes too. She apologized for the things I endured. She felt it — not just as a government officer, but as a human being. I could tell she wasn’t just doing a job. She was witnessing a life. At the end, she gave me the chance to add anything else. I did. Then my attorney gave his closing argument. She thanked us, reminded us a decision wouldn’t come that day, and emphasized that because we sued, she would prioritize my case. Before leaving, I signed one last form confirming that I agreed to receive the decision by mail and to notify USCIS if I moved. ⸻ Key Tips for Your Asylum Interview (Affirmative): • Prepare. Even if you know your story, re-read your testimony and documents. Review everything you and your attorney submitted. Know your case — don’t memorize it. • Be honest. If you were charged with a crime — even if the charges were dropped — say yes. USCIS already knows. They’re not trying to punish you; they’re evaluating your character and credibility. • Be yourself. Don’t fake strength. Don’t perform. Just show up as you are. This is your one chance to tell your truth. If you need to cry, cry. If you need a moment, ask for it. The officers are trained to look for sincerity. • Don’t just say “I don’t know.” If you truly don’t know something, that’s okay — but don’t stop there. Say something like, “I don’t know exactly, but I believe…” or “I’m not sure, but to the best of my memory…” This shows effort, openness, and willingness to clarify. It keeps the conversation flowing and avoids dead silence, which can come across as evasive or unprepared. • This is a conversation — not an interrogation. Yes, it’s hard. Yes, it’s emotional. But it’s not a courtroom or a police station. The more you approach it as a conversation, the more natural and truthful your responses will be. • Dress business casual. It shows you respect yourself and the process. You’re not dressing to impress — you’re showing you take this seriously. • It’s okay to laugh — even in heavy moments. If humor is part of your coping, don’t suppress it. Jokes don’t mean you’re mocking the process. They can make the space more human. But don’t force it. Again — just be you. • Don’t rely on your lawyer to speak for you. During the interview, they’re mostly silent unless needed. You’re the one USCIS wants to hear from. • Officers watch everything. Not just your answers — but your body language, tone, and energy. Be consistent. Be present. Be real. ⸻ Final Note: My decision came two weeks after the interview. A week later, I had my approval letter, I-94, and A05 EAD in hand. I am now an asylee in the U.S. I hope this helps. If there’s anything you’d like me to elaborate on, drop it in the comments. I’ll be happy to help. Good luck. #Asylum #AsylumInterview #AffirmativeAsylum
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