What would you do if a student on your academic roster was failing a course?
The interviewer would like further insight into your style when advising and helping any failing students on your academic roster. Give a brief overview of what you would do to help a struggling student. Some ideas include reviewing the student's progress in the course, assessing any challenges they may be facing, discussing their study habits and time management skills, and working with them to develop a plan to improve their grade. This may also involve seeking tutoring or meeting with the professor for extra help.
"I believe when a student is failing, some underlying issues usually need to be dealt with. I will collaborate with that student and the professor to create an action plan for success. I will also openly ask the student what they need from me to feel supported."
"If I had a student who was failing a course, I would want to take a more personal approach by sitting down with the student to find out the source of their struggle. I am always eager to learn. What is your most preferred method when helping a struggling student?"
"I certainly want all of my students to succeed, so if they were failing a course, I would meet with them and ask, 'What can I do to make this easier for you?' It's amazing how well students will open up when they know they are being listened to. Also, I would want to understand why they are struggling and if any extenuating circumstances are impacting their performance. From there, I would work with the student to develop a plan to improve their grades. This could include extra tutoring, additional study resources, or potentially dropping the course and retaking it at a later time. Ultimately, my goal as an academic advisor is to support the student in whatever way possible to ensure their success in their academic pursuits."
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 would offer them guidance to help them consider other suitable courses or training options available based on their career aspirations. Also, I believe that collaboration between the student's academic tutor and myself would help create success.
Rachelle's Feedback
Well said! This is a smart approach, and your answer shows that you genuinely care about your students' academic success.
Anonymous Answer
I would meet with them and ask what I can do for them. Tell them the resource the college offer for helping the students.
Rachelle's Feedback
This is a good start! If you have encountered this situation with a student in the past, be sure to give a brief story/example.
Anonymous Answer
I would ask the student what I could do to help. I want to provide a holistic approach to helping students. If the problem involved dealing with mental health or general, personal issues, I would encourage them to meet with a personal counselor at school. If they were having a difficult time understanding the coursework, I would encourage them to utilize the tutoring services. If it was a financial issue, such as a risk of losing their homes, needing childcare, or perhaps a different job, I would refer them to our Resource Center and our Career Services Center. In my current position, I help students with their job search. More often than not, when a student and I meet, we aren't just talking about the type of jobs they're seeking; instead, we talk about their life. I meet students who perhaps were let go and are experiencing some sort of financial crisis or student parents who are pursuing a degree in hopes of a better job to support their children, many of which I would refer to our Resource Center.
Rachelle's Feedback
Terrific response! Your answer shows that you have a solid understanding that each student is unique, and they face a variety of challenges and struggles. Your empathy shines through, as does your knowledge of the many resources available for assistance.
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