How to Answer: What is the most unusual college application you've ever seen?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Admissions Counselor job interview.
32. What is the most unusual college application you've ever seen?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks you about the most unusual college application you have ever seen to gauge your ability to handle unique situations and your attention to detail. They want to know whether you can spot red flags in an application and whether you can think creatively to find ways to accommodate the applicant's needs. Additionally, this question can help the interviewer understand your level of empathy and how you handle difficult situations, which are essential traits for an admissions counselor to possess. Describe the most unusual application you have seen.
Written by Krista Wenz on July 9th, 2023
Entry Level Example
"As an admissions counselor, I have seen some pretty unique college applications. However, the most unusual one that comes to mind was from a student who had spent their entire high school years traveling the world with their family. Instead of traditional extracurricular activities, they had a list of experiences like climbing Mount Everest and volunteering in remote villages. Their essay was a fascinating reflection on how these experiences had shaped their worldview and education. It was a standout application and showed me there are many ways to be a well-rounded and successful student."
Written by Krista Wenz on July 9th, 2023
Answer Example
"The most unusual application I ever saw came from a student who had spent a year living in the wilderness with a group of fellow adventurers. They had built their own shelters, hunted and gathered their own food, and generally survived without any modern amenities. The student's essay was incredibly compelling, detailing the challenges they faced and the lessons they learned about self-reliance, teamwork, and resilience. It was clear that this experience profoundly impacted the student's life and would make them a valuable addition to any college community."
Written by Krista Wenz on July 9th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I have seen a lot of college applications over the years, but the most unusual one I have ever encountered was from a student who wrote their entire essay in rhyme. It was really impressive! They conveyed their passion for their chosen field of study while showcasing their creativity and love for poetry. It definitely stood out from the other applications I had read that day."
Written by Krista Wenz on July 9th, 2023