Walk us through your post-secondary education and how the knowledge you gained will benefit your career with CBSA.
The hiring authorities at Canada Border Services Agency would like a detailed breakdown of your training and any other educational experiences related to your career, especially those which are transferable to customs, border control, security, or law enforcement. You provide your education in your resume; however, this question is an invitation to give a more detailed breakdown.
"I recently earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, which included 21 core courses, 10 general courses, and 6 electives. This intensive coursework allowed me to gain a strong foundation in criminology, interviewing, forensic science, evidence, and procedures, as well as law and the judicial process. This knowledge will be valuable to my contribution to CBSA as I come with a robust understanding of the regulations and best practices related to border control and public protection. Of course, I never stop learning, so I plan to complete my masters' degree along the way, taking online coursework in tandem with my full-time career."
Be sure to highlight any awards, scholarships, or accolades that you may have received while earning your post-secondary credentials. Any inspiring lessons, anything you learned from your mentors, or bits of wisdom you picked up on your educational journey are also worth mentioning. Anything that can be attributed to your growth.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I graduated high school and went to college for HVAC services which isn't a relatable field. What is relatable is my experience as a screening officer. I have to screen passengers in order to prevent the smuggling of explosives and weapons. It's an important responsibility that means protecting and serving the public. I believe I have considerable experience and also an interest in the law. I have room to learn and grow, but I will expand my knowledge to be a good officer.
Rachelle's Feedback
Screening for weapons and explosives is a fundamental responsibility, no doubt! Are you able to give more information regarding your interest in law? The interviewers' follow up question may be, 'If you have an interest in law, have you considered related post-secondary education.' Just an FYI to prepare for a query similar to that. Expanding on your interest in law could help the conversation to flow more easily.
Anonymous Answer
For my post-secondary education, I took police foundations. This course touched on many subjects such as interview and investigation, psychology, criminology, and issues in diversity. The knowledge I gained from taking those courses will benefit me in a career with CBSA because I already have prior knowledge that will be beneficial to your agency.
Rachelle's Feedback
Good start! The details you provide around your coursework is a nice touch. Your last sentence could use more detail. I've provided a starter example for you below.
"I completed the Police Foundations course (through?). This course touched on many subjects, such as interviews and investigation, psychology, criminology, and diversity issues. The knowledge I gained from taking those courses will benefit me in a career with CBSA in various ways. For instance...(discuss the measurable ways that your coursework will benefit the CBSA)."
Anonymous Answer
I obtained a degree in Addictions & Community Service through Everest College in June of 2011. I believe that the knowledge I gained from this course will benefit my potential career with the CBSA, as it allowed me to gain a more open mind towards those who suffer from substance abuse. My schooling also touched on the psychological and environmental factors behind certain behaviors, as well as in-depth studies on the illegal drugs that are within Canada.
Rachelle's Feedback
Your answer is very clear, and you make a strong connection between your education and how it will benefit CBSA, should you be hired. Since your graduation date is 2011, I recommend leaving out your dates and instead focusing on how you have continued to gain and maintain knowledge in this area over the past 10 years.
Anonymous Answer
I have learned how to handle customer service and information administration.
Stephanie's Feedback
This response does not quite answer the question. This question is specifically asking you to describe your post-high school experience (college, community college, graduate school, etc) and how this has helped prepare you for this role.
Anonymous Answer
I am currently taking a program in Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity at BCIT. In this program, I have taken courses on the seizure and search of computers and other devices, as well as two courses on Canadian Criminal Law. I have also taken a more general course on ethics that was included with the program. I feel my knowledge of computers will be an asset to CBSA, which has to process millions of travelers every year. If a computer is seized, I will be qualified to provide assistance to BSOs who are asked to examine them.
Stephanie's Feedback
Excellent response! It is clear that your post-secondary education aligns closely with the job requirements at CBSA, and what you've learned through your coursework will be a valuable asset to this role.
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