yamashitariki

Thank you MarkUK for your encouragement and sharing your experience. I used to be in the F&B, Entertainment, & FMCG industry. The industries you have mentioned are predominant here alright. I'm also very happy to hear about your job experience. A lot of it has to do with luck, persistence and people you know. I've been fortunate recently to get a part time job and there are prospects for others through recommendation.

I've been quite aggressive going out to meeting new people. And finding a social context and being present. Over time, I hope I'll develop some friendships. Been also bumping into random friendly people and just going with the flow. The holidays are coming up, and flights being expensive as they are; I hope I can have something saved to visit my relatives back home too.

Yup. Take the first job that opens up. Then, a few months later, when you SEE the 'hidden jobs' that are only available for current uPitt employees - apply.

uPitt is not a bad place to work, you can 'work yer way up' over the course of a year. Plus the free and reduced tuition is a godsend.

Check it out! Get out of the house, soonish !

[walk on, to the employment office at uPitt, todayish - don't waste time with their web site]

Thanks for the encouragement! I will do that. Will let you know what happens. In the meantime, I am starting a part time job with a neighbour who needs some help. He might recommend me to his ex-wife who runs her own Marketing business. Wish me luck for that too.

Last night and this afternoon I walked around to the neighbouring streets with stores to see if there are any Help Wanted signs. So far, stores like Subway are hiring.

With luck, right after the post I sent; I was offered a part time odd job (cash terms) by a neighbour who needed some help with computer related work. I also got notified for an interview with Teavana at the mall.

I feel a little uneasy about the Teavana job as I've been reading a lot of horror stories about them after I had applied. Since I've not been offered perhaps I'm thinking too much and would just go for the interview anyway. Everyone's experience is different.

I was also quite surprised how many of you commented and gave me a lot of comfort and insights too. I'll try to address each one.

@Gabbi

I really feel for you. We seem to be on the same boat. I have no problems talking to people or even going up to strangers to talk. My wife has a few university friends, but perhaps we are somehow different in some mysterious cosmic terms. We are hardly invited to their social events. I know most of them as all of us talked quite a bit. So I don't know what's up. It is quite painful to see their facebook updates and photos of their recent meet up's and not being invited. Social politeness is something I had been warned before by friends who had lived in the US, but I have finally got the first hand experience. I never realised you could talk and be chatty and then not be friends and hold some reservations. I would like to note also, what I express here is over generalisation and largely dependent on the people. I'm still hopeful to finding friends here. I also hope you can slowly build your network or roots.

@Mrs GH

3 years. Wow. You really said it. I am socially irrelevant. I'm quite an online sort of person. But unless you see people in person, I guess that might answer my question why I've not been invited. It is much easier when you come to the country as a student compared to being married. There is absolutely no social context. And people tend to be friends with someone in their social circle. Daunting is the keyword. It is also quite difficult for us as my wife has no immediate family here either. I'm basically a walking target for cult recruitment. Ugh. Being friends with adults is tough, no hey we dig the same bands. Also most have children. My in-laws often tell me once I start working it will be easier. Thanks for your well wishes and it was a comforting note.

@NY_BX

I'm not sure if I'm in the tri-state area. But yeah, Pittsburgh isn't really known to be a thriving market. I was well aware of that before arriving and it got me worried. I might have a better chance in Philly, but my wife is studying for the long haul here. I find it quite tough when before I was working as in a senior marketing position (almost made a manager) and now I'm back to square one. I read that I shouldn't sell myself short but I would like something in my pockets when I walk around. And what is with these well-dressed bums asking me for 25 cents to a dollar? I keep telling them. No, I don't have money. I am unemployed. Last night, one asked me to go to the ATM to get it. The nerve. You are right, for Q4 stores are definitely hiring and I'm trying to ride on that wave. Thanks, I'll try to catch that luck you sent!

@Darnell

Hello. You mean, just walk in and ask for work with UPitt? I might when my desperation reaches. I have tried applying for relevant jobs at their website.

@ethel_eric

I'm not too familiar with Career One Stop Center. I'll check it out. This is the website I presume, if anyone else might find useful : http://www.careeronestop.org/ . Yes, we should always be thankful.

@yash0500

I'm in Marketing Communication, specialising in Digital or Social Media; and Online Development (project management for building websites and tying in with e-marketing efforts).

This is really a tough one - finding work in America.

As one VJ poster here commented about how it is living the American Nightmare instead of a dream.

I received my combo card on Saturday, Nov 5. It has an EAD and AP combined. Pretty cool and I got it quite fast after being notified about 2 weeks back.

I've since been in Pittsburgh trying to settle in these past 4 months. I've taken the advice of many here who are helpful. And prepared myself mentally even before arriving. Things like converting one's resume into an American style, the I-9 forms and our rights, volunteering, socializing (MeetUp.com), etc.

I've started applying for actively for jobs a month back and I must say this has been extremely difficult. It is really a humbling experience so far. I tried job positions above, equal and below my qualifications to a lackluster result. I have scoured craigslist for part time jobs even. I do get some responses, but nothing more. Perhaps I am being impatient?

I liked how some have mentioned in this section of the forum about how we are in the Jobless Club.

Strange thing about Pittsburgh. It seems difficult for me in finding friends. I can talk to anyone but it goes no further. Almost a reflection on my job hunt.

Basically, besides an outlet to rant. I was wondering if there are any Pittburghers here who could offer some advice?

And if you are in Pittsburgh, I'd like to hear about your experience too. Maybe some lurker here might benefit from this sharing?

Thanks.

My K1 Visa was approved today!

YAY!

Special thanks to Elan & Amir, for their reassurances and friendship <3

I'm off to bed, lack of sleep for 27 hours.

Yay! My interview date is in 3 weeks' time. :-)

My medical exam was rather quick and easy. Results will be out next week, Weds.

Going to work on my AOS now.

Hello's to Elan!

Coincidentally, I have been having Nasi Lemaks almost 3 times a week now. Preparing for the inevitable lack of nasi lemak in my future diet. There is just something about the knotted pandan-leaf soaked in rich coconut milk rice, and a sambal that stirs up fond memories from childhood or early morning warmth in the tummy before office hours begin. Oh, Nasi Lemak - an ode to thee.

I haven't tried any Malaysian restaurants in the States yet, though I've come across one or two in Boston. I am pessimistic that it won't be the same.

At least I have an agenda to fill up my time and tummy while I wait out my current delay; courtesy of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

What other Malaysian food do you miss? I think I might miss the Ramlee Burger and Satay. Oh, the other time when I was in Pittsburgh, I came across this Indian grocers that had Malaysian Roti Canai (Prata) brand. It amused me a lot as I often see it in the freezer sections in Tesco's or Giant.

I submitted my documents on Friday morning at Wisma Putra. Here's some information to help others when undergoing this process. If the moderator or main OP can include this info at the first post, it would be helpful for future references.

TIP

Begin applying for the Certificate of Good Conduct before or immediately after submitting the K1 visa package. The process takes 1-2 months.

NOTICE

"Pleased be informed that applications for Certificate of Good Conduct should be made by online only, starting from 1st January 2011. Applications can be made via Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Website www.kln.gov.my under e-Consular

IMPORTANT!

• You can no longer submit the printed forms. They will immediately return/reject your application.
  
• You must submit an online application via their website.
  
• Create an account using your passport (Foreigners / P.R.) / NRIC (Malaysians).
  
• Make a note that purpose of the application is for 'U.S. Immigration Visa'
  
• There is a high chance your e-application form will not be able to be printed (their system is faulty).
  
• It is ideal if you submitted your forms in person at Putrajaya.
  
• If you decide to post, ensure that you include a cover letter explaining what the documents are for : submission & the online transaction code).
  
• There is just one computer there for public use at Wisma Putra. You can do last minute application or check your status. The queue is long due to lengthly application process and users who are unfamiliar with computers.
  
• Go early. Bring your PASSPORT and NRIC. No passport, no application.
  

PROCESS

• Line-up outside guardhouse to obtain security passes and a Green Exit Form (to be submitted after). Guards will take your NRIC.
  
• Go into the main building and line up outside the front desk. Here at 8.30, staff will check your forms and give you a number.
  
• Go into the seated waiting room.
  
• Submit documents at Counter 3.
  
• Wait 15-30 minutes.
  
• Counter 4 will call you and provide you with a receipt A4 size.
  
• Ensure you check your status online that it is currently "In Progress"
  
• Wait 1-2 months.
  

CONTACT INFORMATION

Kementerian Luar Negari

Bahagain Konsular

Wisma Putra, No. 1

Jalan Wisma Putra, Presint 2

62602 Putrajaya

Operation Hours : Mon - Fri (0830 - 1230 / 1330 - 1600)

Notes: Must stand in queue outside building to obtain security passes before entering. They will start handing out passes at 8.20-ish. So it is best to be early.

Contact Personnel

+6 03 8887 4126 - En. Rosfaizi

+6 03 8887 4264 - Pn. Umi (Please avoid this person. Very rude.)

+6 03 8887 4100 - Pn. Maria

+6 03 8887 4159 - Pn. Aniza

+6 03 8887 4275 - Pn. Rostilah

+6 03 8887 4367 - Lobby Counter

Pn. Farrah Ahmad Katran

Assistant Secretary Consular

Mobile : +6 017 349 4644

Tel : +6 03 8887 4270

Hi NadianaPaul

Thanks for your reply. It is comforting that I am not alone in this whole ordeal. By the way, how did the embassy schedule the interview?

Do they send the package to you and is the interview date pre-determined then? Or do you submit the package 3 and they will inform you later? I am mostly worried because at this rate I am unsure if I can get the certificate on time.

Also, how long was the interview schedule from the day you've received the package? Thanks!

Good luck with the interview! Please let me know how it went.

I had a terrible experience with the person in charge for the Police Clearance. Here is the post describing it.

I am having the most frustrating experience with regards to obtaining the Police Certificate (Certificate of Good Conduct / Sijil Kelakuan Baik) here in Malaysia!

This lady named "Umi" who is the main person in charge of that department in Wisma Putra is terribly rude.

I got a shock when I realised in January 2011 that the process would take 1-2 months. I am currently the beneficiary for the K1 visa (I-129F). So hurriedly, I gathered all the documents required.

I applied online (kln.gov.my) but towards the end the system could not generate or print the receipt. So, I found a printed form on their website and filled that up. Attached my photos and accompanied that package as per their instructions. Certified copies of my passport, MyPR ID, Letter from the Employer, money order for RM20 and a self-addressed envelope. I posted this immediately via PostLaju.

I called the following week on 27 Jan, 3.45pm to inquire about the status. The lady asked for my ID number. So I gave it to her. She then said that it did not exist in their system and my documents have not been received. She asked me to re-submit it in person instead. Their office is very far away in Putrajaya. I called back again and said perhaps they needed my passport number.

She then told me off, "Jangan berlagak jadi orang Malaysia!" (Don't pretend to be Malaysian) in a harsh tone. I explained calmly that I am a Permanent Resident here, and she changed the subject. She then said they have received my documents and will process it the following day and to call back a month later.

Today, being nearly a month to date. I called and she told me that she need not my information to check the status as she goes by the date of submission. And said that period was not due. I then found in my mail later, that the Department of Foreign Affairs (Consular Division) had returned EVERY SINGLE DOCUMENT I submitted last month! A letter attached said that they no longer accept printed forms beginning mid-Jan. And this however, was NOT stated on their website.

I called that lady back to seek further clarification. She just responded (in Malay), "How would I know? I am not the one who opens the mail. Those people (her staff) aren't trained or anything". Wow. I asked her what should I do next. She said I have to go personally and submit the documents again at Counter 3 in Wisma Putra. I asked again how long would this take (since this screw-up was their fault). And she yelled at me saying "You orang Foreigner sepatutnya baca!" (You foreigners should READ). Double WOW. I couldn't take it anymore so I told her off, "Jangan memperli aku" (Don't be condescending!). I was seeking clarification. She said it will still take 1-2 months from that date of submission.

Basically, I have wasted a month waiting for nothing because the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs royally screwed-up my application. I would forgive their lack of accountability and responsibility in their roles, but being rude as well as somewhat racist; I think this is terribly in bad taste. Tomorrow, I would have to apply for leave and go all the way there just to do the whole thing again.

At the back of my mind, I am worried because I am due to receive the package from the US Malaysian Embassy. I am concerned that I might not have the Police Clearance documents in time for the interview. Would the Embassy re-schedule the interview at a later date?

Sigh. I feel absolutely terrible.

Yay! Congratulations! Come on Vermont. Pick up pace.

Thank you all for your kind words! I feel relieved at last.

Happy Bunny Year to all of you and fellow VJ-ers.

At 00:15 (+0800) today, this lunar new year; our petition for the I129F was approved by USCIS (NOA2). What a great Chinese New Year this will be. <3

July 30 (NOA1) filer, VSC.

Thank you my friends here who have supported me. Blessings goes to those still enduring the wait. And congratulations for those who had received the good news.

:dance: :dance: :dance: :dance:

Fifteen minutes past midnight here in Malaysia, Feb 3 is Chinese New Year.

I was just approved at 00:15 (+0800).

A great way to begin the New Year! Received a text message and an email. July 30 NOA1 filer.

I thank all my friends here who have been so supportive. What a great community. I congratulate those who also received their NOA2s. And hope those still enduring the wait to be blessed and get your approvals ASAP!

YAY!!!

Will update my status now.

Called twice. First time they gave me a go-away line, and to call back after 20 days. Second time, said we are still within the time frame. Sent a letter to the Congressman around the same time as the first call. He didn't respond. Will call again, but feeling like just letting it run its own overdue course.

July 30 NOA1 here. Still nothing.

I am a July 2010 filer still waiting for my NOA2.

I just realised that the country (Malaysia) where I will be having the K1 interview requires a police certificate called a "Certificate of Good Conduct".

My question that concerns me is :

The certification requires 2 months to process! What if it does not arrive before the interview date? Is it possible to reschedule the interview or submit the certification at a later date?

Thanks.

My I-129f visa petition is currently over the 5 month posted adjudication time as posted on the USCIS web site as my petition was received 7/29/2010 it has been 5 months and 9 days. My case number is XXXXXXXX at the Vermont Service Center. It was touched once 0n October 3, 2010 but I believe this touch was caused by them moving the boxes it was in, as of today 1/7/2011 there has been no action on it. I respectfully request that your office look into this matter as it is past the posted time. There have been other petitions received after mine already adjudicated. Thanking you in advance sincerely

John C

a copy of the e-mail I sent to my senator

Thanks, John. That would be useful for me too. I've been given the 20-day go away line. So will try the Senator/Congressman route next.

Don't know and don't care. All I know is that it is someone or some group who knows what he/she/they are doing and willing to do the work.

LOL. Could be the NSA.

I've heard quite a few members here said that once the NOA2 is 'approved' things move relatively quicker. I don't get what that means. Is it quicker because it is psychological? Whereby a definite timeline exists and some activity is evident. Because I've started to be concerned that once the NOA2 kicks in, I might have another 3 month wait until the interview.

Blek. end of July filer. Nothing either. Congrats for the approval OP

Who is the person behind Igor?

For some reason, I had a scene of "Life is Beautiful" in my head before I slept last night. The character Guido played by Roberto Benigni was a care-free and could make light of the situation for the sake of his son. This was all done despite the challenges faced.

Sure, one could argue it is a wonderful lie; but it made me reflect upon myself. Faced with all this waiting and uncertainty, I've been feeling rather miserable.

I wondered how do I stay happy and positive as this (visa process) is a very frustrating experience. I feel worn out, basically feeling like a cat rug. Run over numerous times.

Guido in his tattered clothes, fatigued and starving still made an effort. I guess being happy is a great effort. Overcoming that urge to slink into the comforting mud hole of depression.