How to Overcome Nervousness Before and During Your U.S. Citizenship Interview
Interview can be nerve wracking to some people. However it's natural to be nervous.
And there are several ways to calm your nerves and overcome your nervousness.
So here are effective ways on how to reduce unnecessary stress.
And build your confidence before and during your USCIS interview.
Days before your interview...
Keep yourself in good health.
Treat yourself well by eating healthy foods.
Try to exercise regularly and get enough sleep,
especially during the days leading to your interview.
Part of the U.S. citizenship interview is that
you pass a civics an english test to receive a United States citizenship.
So you will need to do some research
to learn the most current answers
to some questions to pass the civics test.
Check out the uscis website for reference.
You may also take the civics practice test
on the USCIS website to help you test your knowledge
of the United States history and government.
Remember the more you know the more confident you'll be in responding to the immigration officer's questions.
Be prepared preparation is the key to confidence.
So try to spend more time preparing yourself for the tests,
the oral interview, as well as the things you'll be bringing with you on that day.
These may include preparing the necessary files, copies, as well as the original documents, and
letters you receive from the USCIS.
Place them on a separate folder or file holder.
This will make it easier for you to find later for reviewing some information before your interview.
Every bit of preparation that you can do will help reduce anxiety.
Remember, the best way to stay calm and confident is when you're prepared.
Know the location of the interview.
If you aren't so familiar with the location of the interview,
refer to your appointment notice to confirm the USCIS field office address for your visit,
then map your travel route.
If you live in a nearby city you might want to take a drive to locate it.
And find where you could easily park and possibly check for the traffic reports.
This will help you plan your travel time ahead so you can arrive to the USCIS field office as early as possible.
If you live quite far, you may opt to stay in a hotel closer to the USCIS field office, a day before your scheduled interview.
This will help prevent you from arriving late on your interview day.
Reduce Stressors
There are many things that can cause stress especially during the days leading to the interview.
So as much as possible, try to eliminate them.
This can also include things such as what to wear during that day,
so it's better to prepare your outfit days ahead.
Lay out your clothes and do your ironing a day before.
You don't have to dress very formally for your U.S. citizenship interview and test.
You can choose clothing that looks good on you and makes you feel very comfortable.
A nice collar shirt for men, or a plain blouse for women is sufficient.
Women may also wear a dress, while men may also wear a jacket if that's what makes them comfortable.
Just remember the fewer details you have to worry about on the day of the interview the better.
Rehearse, part of the USCIS interview is the civics test.
It is an oral examination in which an immigration officer,
will ask you questions to test your knowledge of the United States history and government,
as well as your ability to speak the English language.
So try to practice an oral interview at home.
You can start by answering questions
to demonstrate your skills in speaking English.
You might want to practice in front of a mirror,
paying special attention to your posture, facial expressions,
and eye contact while keeping your nerves in check.
The more you practice, the more skilled you'll become.
And this will help you feel more confident during your naturalization interview.
Visualize Success
Find a quiet place in your home where you won't be disturbed.
Close your eyes and visualize yourself being successful in your USCIS interview.
Arrive early and relax.
Nothing will get you in panic faster than being late.
So try to get there early before your scheduled interview.
You may need the time to find parking and get through security.
By reducing this stressor,
you can give yourself time to gather your thoughts,
to breathe and to remain calm and confident while waiting for your turn.
During your interview...
Just be yourself.
Think of the interview as a conversation between two people.
Don't put too much pressure on yourself.
Think positively and just be yourself.
If ever you experience shaky hands, fold them, and place them in your lap.
If you find yourself feeling nervous, or having a trembling voice during the interview,
take several deep calming breaths
and just try to do something that will be less noticeable to release your anxious energy.
Take your time.
Remember, you don't have to answer questions immediately.
If you think you need to gather your thoughts, then pause before answering a question.
By taking your time to formulate your thoughts, this will allow you to provide a well thought out answer.
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