Eb1-or
Well, thanks for keeping the thread alive.
When I applied, I really thought EB1-OR was a sure shot and was just darn confident. Then the reality hit and it was a hard pill to swallow, more because it hurts your ego that some idiot who has no background judges your work.
In anycase, here is what I learnt, EB1-OR was an attractive choice, I know many of my colleagues and even one of my post docs got theirs approved. However, when I applied the premium processing just came into effect. I was one of the first to use PP, I was warned against using it, but I didnt listen cause I thought it would have no effect. But in hindsight, it did make a negative impact.
In less than 4 days after applying for PP, I got a generic RFE asking me to send everything that I sent. I went to a top lawyer, shelled out big bucks and sent the RFE. (The University declined to assist me with the RFE, as they didnt want to take responsibility). Most universities dont have lawyers, the international office has trained staff in these applications.
So, the lawyer went overboard and maybe borderline offensive in responding to the RFE clearly stating that it was unwarranted and I beefed my application with 'n' number of citations, media reports and additional reference letters and a sharp covering letter.
However, the denial came after 10 days of receipt of the RFE. The denial was in detail praising me every other line but asking for major awards like a nobel prize and also coming down heavily on a letter in which my PhD work was described.
All I can say now is I am just tired of all these applications and have just left it to 'luck' to get these petitions approved. Of course there is no harm in submitting a strong petition with a good lawyer.
I would like to say that these petitions are getting more scrutiny because too many people started applying without the necessary credentials. But having said that, there is nothing wrong for anyone out there to apply and have a shot.
In the future, this approval process must be objective than subjective. Clear norms must be established like a point system.
Good luck to all of those out there and I dont intend to freak out any EB1OR petitions. Just sharing my experience and thoughts.