1. Keep It Short and Direct The Commanding Officer is processing hundreds of applications. They really value efficiency. When the Commanding Officer asks you a question you should get straight to the point. If the Commanding Officer asks you "What is the purpose of your trip?" a response like "I'm going to my nieces graduation in New York" is much better than telling a long story about your family. The Commanding Officer does not have time to listen to a story so you should k