As an academic advisor, understanding sources of inspiration is important. Who has inspired you in your life and why?
"I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say that the person who has most greatly inspired me has been my grandmother. She always had a smile on her face no matter how hard she worked, and she loved everyone. She was well respected and always gave more than she received. I try to live like her as much as I can."
"My previous sociology professor was a huge inspiration to me. Her passion for education was motivating and put the fire in me to graduate with top marks. She is also the one who suggested I pursue this career, as she saw a nurturing and caring side of me that always helps others."
"My students inspire me! Who better to inspire me to do the best work than the individuals I am trying to help? I am constantly impressed and inspired by my students' dedication and hard work. Their drive to succeed and passion for learning never ceases to amaze me. Watching them overcome challenges and achieve their goals is truly rewarding, and it motivates me to continue supporting them in any way I can. Whether it's through providing guidance on course selection or offering advice on career paths, I am honored to be a part of their journey and am inspired by their resilience and determination."
The interviewer asks this question to gain insight into what motivates and drives you as an individual. Many different people can inspire you in your life, including family members, friends, mentors, and even strangers. Inspiration can come from various sources, such as someone's accomplishments, character traits, or how they handle adversity. Ultimately, anyone who brings positivity, encouragement, and guidance into your life has the potential to be a source of inspiration. As an academic advisor, understanding sources of inspiration is crucial in helping guide students toward their own passions and goals. Describe who has inspired you the most and why.
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
My mother inspires me every single day. She wanted to build a better life for me. She was a single mother, knew three phrases; thank you, excuse me, and please when we came to the United States. My mother had to learn English, find a career, and also take care of me. Life was not easy, but she always had a positive attitude, and she pushed forward. Today she is a nurse at a trauma one hospital; she is a mentor for new nurses and constantly is uplifting others to do their best.
Marcie's Feedback
Wow. Your story about your mom is truly inspiring and wonderful. It sounds like you were raised by a very strong woman. Your answer will undoubtedly impress the interviewer. If you want to add anything further, you could also talk about what you learned from your mom and how you implement those lessons in your life every day.
Anonymous Answer
I find inspiration within my community and from a few external sources. I have most recently been inspired by several teens who have demonstrated and led important equity movements within a community. I am so inspired by the relative ease with which they navigate these issues. My go-to for inspirational reading is Pema Chodron. Most recently I read an article on advising by Terrell Strayhorn. He describes the work of advisors as that of cultural navigators. Academic institutions have cultures of their own and they must be learned. Additionally, they are not always congruent with the cultures of each student.
Marcie's Feedback
Neat! Your sources of inspiration are interesting, and you do an excellent job of describing and explaining them. Can you talk a bit more about what Pema Chodron writes about? And consider ending your answer with a strong statement about desiring to be a cultural navigator yourself at this school. Great job!
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