This is common and has been common for many years. I have read dozens of stories of the same. Particularly, the first time applicants are denied as a matter of course.
the clever way is to get a non-o before she leaves home. Banks will open an account here, with that visa. No insurance required with a non-o. Only an non-OA.
On a non O, you don't ever need to leave the country if you don't want to. While there are financial requirements, you don't have to provide any documents from a school or business when extending.