How to Answer: With regards to gifts and subsidies, what, if anything, do you feel is acceptable for a professional to accept? What guidelines should be put around such gifts, and why?
2. With regards to gifts and subsidies, what, if anything, do you feel is acceptable for a professional to accept? What guidelines should be put around such gifts, and why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
One of the goals of Kira's assessments is to assess your character. This includes your sense of honesty and integrity, your code of ethics, and what you view as acceptable conduct. They need to ensure you are aligned with their culture and community, and that, as an alum, you would reflect well on their institution. Spend time researching the academic institution you are applying to. Do a search for their code of ethical conduct, which will likely be published online in a PDF format. Then reflect on your character, and how you are aligned with their values.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 14th, 2024
Tips
Before your interview begins, you'll want to make sure your laptop, camera, microphone, speakers, or headphones are working properly, and are fully charged and connected to a power source. You'll also want to ensure you have a stable internet connection, and to make sure all your software is updated to ensure you "avoid the pesky 'Do you want to update?' pop-ups and unwanted computer restarts by making sure your software is up to date before you start." Also, disable notifications, disable browser extensions, such as Grammarly, and close unnecessary applications and browser tabs, "to avoid unnecessary distractions." Kira also recommends you "disable ad-blockers and autoplay blockers, close all unnecessary browser windows and tabs, and close all non-essential computer applications to free up system resources and reduce competition for internet bandwidth." Ensure you silence any other personal electronic devices you own. Lastly, "if possible, ask your family, colleagues, or roommates for some quiet time. Let them know that they shouldn't disturb you."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 14th, 2024
How to Prep
Before your interview, take advantage of the built-in practice questions, which you can complete an unlimited number of times. Also, go the extra mile and use your computer's camera to record yourself completing the interview questions in this set to get a feeling for this interview format. "Then review your performance, identify areas for improvement, and practice again."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 10th, 2024
Answer Example
"Well, I would say that if it in any way generates bias or preferential treatment for the person or group who provided the gift or subsidy, it creates a conflict of interest, in which case it would be inappropriate. So, I would say, without a clear idea of the particular context, or the ethical code of conduct that applies to any given situation, I can't possibly say what would be appropriate or acceptable. But, I have a lot of integrity, which forms my character. And, if it didn't feel right or acceptable to me, I would graciously decline accepting such a gift."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 11th, 2024