Hi Gloria,
Please remember it's not YOU.
This lady probably sees hundreds of people each week and chances are she's learnt to be harsh, in her position, due to the actions and behaviours of others. I'm not making excuses for her just hoping to explain why she may be the way she is.
Write things down before you go. If it's on paper you don't have to worry that you'll forget or get stumped. Try to smile and be nice. Deep breathes. She may feel just as uncomfortable and worried as you feel but be trying to hide it behind a hard exterior. It's her job to do this. She is under pressure to make sure we are all 'who we say we are'.
Most of all remember you are 'right' and have every right to be there. If you honestly feel she is just trying to intimidate you, tell her and ask if it is possible for someone else to be present or if you can speak to someone else. Explain to her how you are starting to feel and let her know if you don't feel safe. You have the right to have someone else present, whether a friend or another staff member and you have a right to speak to someone else if you feel anxious/intimidated.
SM
