Can you share an experience when you went above and beyond to help a student?
Employers want to hire people who can go the extra mile. For this question, just cite an experience that you feel is beyond your normal scope of duty but you did wholeheartedly, which produced a favorable or positive result. Share how you felt during that time, and if you received any commendations for that action.
"There was a time when (share experience). At first, I was nervous to actually do the job but fortunately, I was able to complete it even if it wasn't something I regularly do. I felt very proud of myself and my immediate superior was also very happy with the output that I delivered. Because of that, I was hailed 'Employee of the Month' for that period."
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 had a student come to me looking for a work-study job. Unfortunately, he did not have financial aid and didn't qualify for a work-study job. I really wanted to help him because he was a special needs students who had been trying to find work, but had nothing on his resume. So, using my network, I found him another job on campus, not work study. It worked out well - his supervisor was very happy with him. His mother was so appreciative she wrote me a nice letter, and I was just happy I could help him.
Chad's Feedback
This is a terrific example to share of a time you went the extra mile to help out a student. It sounds like your assistance had a significant impact on the student, and his family. Great job!
Anonymous Answer
I remember when I was working in community mental health, a child who had been recently added to my care was hospitalized in an inpatient psychiatric facility, and I went to visit her there on a weekend. This went a long way to building rapport and a positive therapeutic relationship with her.
Stephanie's Feedback
From this example, it's evident that you're very caring! Given the question, I would suggest emphasizing the "above and beyond" part. I've included an example in the "Revised Answer" section of how you could emphasize this a bit more.
I remember when I was working in community mental health, a child who had been recently added to my care was hospitalized in an inpatient psychiatric facility, and I went to visit her there on a weekend. Even though this visit took place on my personal time, this went a long way to building rapport and a positive therapeutic relationship with her.
Anonymous Answer
There was a time when I found out that one of my students and his family had just received housing but did not have any money for furniture. I organized a donation fundraiser within the school staff to provide used furniture and new bedding for the student and his family. With the help of staff members, we delivered the donated items and surprised the family. They were so thankful and it felt good to be able to help one of our students in their family get back on their feet.
Cindy's Feedback
What a great story! You've formatted this effectively as well, so the interviewer can see your generosity in action.
Anonymous Answer
Being a school counselor and advocating for students is in the job description, there have been many situations where I went above and beyond to help a student. Recently there was a student who was falling behind in his grades and was put on a 504 plan. The student has ADHD and was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. I noticed the student had little to no motivation in completing his assignments and when asked about his goals for the future, there was not much he offered. I took it on myself to be able to work with him using the ASCA domains of social/emotional development. I realized that his grades won't budge unless I can understand what was going on in his mind and where his motivation was. I felt proud knowing that the student relied on me being an asset and resource in the school. He once said "I feel safer here" and I knew that I was doing more than I can to make a student feel safe.
Stephanie's Feedback
Excellent response! This really encompasses what it means to be an effective school counselor who goes above and beyond for your students. My only suggestion is to consider adding a bit more about the outcome. (For example: did the student's grades or attendance improve? etc.)
Anonymous Answer
What crossed my mind right now was the time three siblings started coming to school with an odor and looking unclean. After meeting with the children I found out they didn't have any running water. I contacted their mom who shared that something was wrong with their pump and their landlord hasn't fixed it yet. So, with the permission of the parent, I made arrangements with my plumber to fix their plumbing issue which didn't take him long to fix. The family had running water and were finally coming to school looking clean.
Jaymie's Feedback
This is a great example to share that shows your kindness and passion for helping students and their families, while also maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
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