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Academic Advisor Mock Interview

Question 11 of 35 for our Academic Advisor Mock Interview

Academic Advisor was updated by on July 6th, 2023. Learn more here.

Question 11 of 35

Under what circumstance would you suggest a student change majors?

This is an important question, as changing majors can significantly affect a student's academic and career goals. It is essential to consider factors such as the student's interests, strengths, and goals, as well as their academic performance and progress toward graduation. Ultimately, the decision to change majors should be based on carefully considering these factors, with the ultimate decision in the student's hands.

The interviewer wants to know that you fully understand the gravity of a decision like changing majors. They want to see that you can guide their students wisely. If you can, give an example of a time when you suggested a student change majors and the outcome of their decision.

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How to Answer: Under what circumstance would you suggest a student change majors?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Academic Advisor job interview.

  • 11. Under what circumstance would you suggest a student change majors?

      What You Need to Know

      This is an important question, as changing majors can significantly affect a student's academic and career goals. It is essential to consider factors such as the student's interests, strengths, and goals, as well as their academic performance and progress toward graduation. Ultimately, the decision to change majors should be based on carefully considering these factors, with the ultimate decision in the student's hands.

      The interviewer wants to know that you fully understand the gravity of a decision like changing majors. They want to see that you can guide their students wisely. If you can, give an example of a time when you suggested a student change majors and the outcome of their decision.

      Written by Krista Wenz on June 29th, 2023

      Entry Level Example

      "The situation would have to be severe before I would recommend changing majors. That isn't a small decision as it can be costly and time-consuming. I would only recommend changing majors if the student were unhappy and on the verge of dropping out altogether."

      Written by Krista Wenz on June 29th, 2023

      Answer Example

      "Changing majors can be serious business, especially if the student risks losing out financially due to the decision. I would suggest a student change majors once they have completely disengaged and are uninterested in the program. I would also only suggest a change once the student is clearly informed about the alternate major they want to take."

      Written by Krista Wenz on June 29th, 2023

      Experienced Example

      "As an experienced academic advisor, I do not feel that it is my place to heavily discourage changing majors if a student is truly unhappy with their originally chosen major. It is their life and their future career path. I will provide them with a lot of well-researched information supporting either decision. A pros and cons list, so to speak. My primary focus would be to support the decision they make in the end."

      Written by Krista Wenz on June 29th, 2023

      Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

      Anonymous Answer

      "Changing courses is an important decision which ought to be made after careful consideration. The student's reasons for changing their course should be carefully discussed. Exploring alternatives to their decision should also help support students with regards to arriving at a final decision. After engaging in all the above, if students are still considering changing degree courses, their academic tutors must be consulted."

      Rachelle's Feedback

      Solid answer. You show great care and professionalism when it comes to your approach.
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