Preferred name signficantly different than my legal name; how to manage during interview process?

The USA application didn't have a section where we could describe our preferred name or anything. I'm worried in my interview if they ask something like "how will you go about students asking why your name doesn't sound America" and if I tell them I actually go by so-and-so they'll get mad I didn't bring it up. At the same time, I'm worried if I tell the consulate in advance they won't want to deal with someone with a preferred name.

Let me know if there's any reason I shouldn't bring it up or if anyone was in a similar situation!