How to Answer: What is the most creative way you have helped a student overcome a challenge?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Admissions Counselor job interview.
8. What is the most creative way you have helped a student overcome a challenge?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer is looking to gain insight into your problem-solving skills and your ability to think outside the box. They may also be interested in seeing how you handle difficult situations and how you communicate with students who may be struggling. You to be honest and specific in your answer, highlighting a real-life example of how you went above and beyond to help a student in need. By sharing your experience, you can show the interviewer that you are committed to helping students succeed and that you have the skills and creativity to do so.
Written by Krista Wenz on July 9th, 2023
Entry Level Example
"One time during college, a classmate came to me with a difficult writing assignment. They were struggling to come up with ideas and organize their thoughts. I suggested they try mind mapping as a way to brainstorm and visualize their ideas. We worked together to create a mind map, which helped them see the connections between their ideas and develop a clear outline for their paper. The student got an A on the assignment and was thrilled with the result. It was great to see them overcome their challenge and succeed!"
Written by Krista Wenz on July 9th, 2023
Answer Example
"One of the most memorable experiences I have had as an admissions counselor was helping a student overcome a significant obstacle in her academic journey. She had a learning disability that made it difficult for her to keep up with her coursework, and as a result, she had a low GPA and struggled to get accepted into the college of her choice.
I knew this student had a lot of potential and was passionate about her chosen field of study, so I decided to take a more creative approach to helping her. Together, we developed a portfolio of her work showcasing her talents and demonstrating her commitment to her studies. We also contacted professors and other professionals in her field of interest to get letters of recommendation that spoke to her strengths and potential.
In the end, our efforts paid off. The student was accepted into her top-choice college and excelled academically and professionally. It was incredibly rewarding to see her overcome her challenges and achieve her goals, and it reinforced for me the importance of taking a personalized approach to helping students succeed."
Written by Krista Wenz on July 9th, 2023
Experienced Example
"One of the most creative ways I have helped a student overcome a challenge was by introducing them to a mentor who could relate to their struggles and offer guidance. The student struggled to balance their coursework and extracurricular activities, causing them to feel overwhelmed and unmotivated. By connecting them with a mentor who had successfully navigated a similar situation, the student was able to gain valuable advice and support. The mentor provided the student with a personalized plan to manage their time more efficiently and offered emotional support and encouragement. With their mentor's help, the student regained confidence in their abilities and ultimately achieved their academic and personal goals."
Written by Krista Wenz on July 9th, 2023