QUESTION 18 OF 25

Tell me about a career related goal that you set and did not reach. How did you recover from the disappointment?

"Right out of university, I set the goal of being the department manager of a junior scientist division by my second year. That would have been six months ago, and I am, as you know, actively pursuing the role with your organization. Although I am slightly off track on my timeline, I do not feel defeated. I know I have the skill set needed to succeed in the role."

"I wanted to become a principal scientist in my field by the time I was 34 years old. It took me longer than I expected but I realized I needed to go through the experiences I had to be the type of principal I am today."

Tell the interviewer about a goal you set for yourself, but failed to meet. Show the interviewer that you are ambitious and, rather than giving up, you are going to try to achieve that goal again. Everyone has goals they have failed to reach so do not be embarrassed about that aspect. The interviewer is more interested in knowing that you are persistent and tenacious.

"Last January, I set a goal to learn the C programming language by June; however, a few unexpected work-based projects came up which slowed my progress. Instead, I have been practicing and studying the language every Sunday evening. I hope to be comfortable with the programming language by August."

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 wanted to get my own grant and become a principal scientist in my field. I got a revision and resubmitted it. This happens that you will not get a grant on the first attempt but I am happy that I got a chance to modify it and resubmit it.

Stephanie's Feedback

This is a great example, but I suggest further developing your response a bit. What did you learn from this process? How has this informed your approach going forward? Adding in a few more details would provide a more compelling and memorable answer.

Create a free account to add your own answer →

Unlock all 25 Biological Scientist questions

Unlock expert responses to research-focused questions that lab directors and principal investigators ask.

Get Started

Previous Question Next Question

Biological Scientist Mock Interview

Tell me about a career related goal that you set and did not reach. How did you recover from the disappointment?

Unlock all 25 Biological Scientist questions

25 Biological Scientist Interview Questions & Answers