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School Counselor Mock Interview

Question 28 of 40 for our School Counselor Mock Interview

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Question 28 of 40

What would you do when a student tells you that he or she wants to drop out of school?

"I would first ask the student 'What made you decide to drop out of school?' instead of asking 'Why?' I've learned that asking just why would put people on the defensive and I want to know the circumstances that led to the student's change of heart instead of making him feel that he needs to justify dropping out. Once he has shared his reasons and feelings towards dropping out, I will ask him what he will do when he finally does it. I believe that by asking the student to expound on his plan after dropping out will they realize how difficult the real world is, and how limited opportunities are to those without sufficient educational attainment."

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How to Answer: What would you do when a student tells you that he or she wants to drop out of school?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a School Counselor job interview.

  • 28. What would you do when a student tells you that he or she wants to drop out of school?

      How to Answer

      Normally, scenarios like this would require school staff to respond a certain way. What is important to remember when asked a question similar to this one is to also show consideration for the emotions of the student.

      Answer Example

      "I would first ask the student 'What made you decide to drop out of school?' instead of asking 'Why?' I've learned that asking just why would put people on the defensive and I want to know the circumstances that led to the student's change of heart instead of making him feel that he needs to justify dropping out. Once he has shared his reasons and feelings towards dropping out, I will ask him what he will do when he finally does it. I believe that by asking the student to expound on his plan after dropping out will they realize how difficult the real world is, and how limited opportunities are to those without sufficient educational attainment."

      Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

      Anonymous Answer

      "If a student were to tell me that he/she wanted to drop out of school, my intial inclination would be to ask what events or circumstances have specifically led to this conclusion. I would then ask if they had a plan for what they would do if they did indeed choose to leave school. Then, based on their answer, I would help to provide them with alternative options and work with them to understand all of the options they have before making a final decision."

      Rachelle's Feedback

      Excellent response. Thorough and insightful without being too wordy.
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    About the Author

    Krista Wenz


    I began my career in emergency medical services (EMS) over 30 years ago, working as a Firefighter-Paramedic, EMS Captain, Mental Health Technician, ER Technician, EMT and Paramedic Adjunct Instructor, and EMS Educator. During my career, I served on over one thousand interview panels to help various organizations choose the right candidate for the job.

    My interview experience includes hiring emergency medical technicians, paramedics, firefighters, professors, school counselors, nurses, medical assistants, school support staff, home health aides, and physician assistants. I have created curricula and training materials to prepare candidates for interviews and held mock interview courses for healthcare and educational professionals. I have coached paramedic and EMT students to pass their licensing exams and counseled and mentored many other healthcare professionals in providing compassionate patient care.

    As a coach and contributor for MockQuestions, I am excited to help you navigate your upcoming school counselor interview. While these questions assess your critical thinking and communication skills, interviewers also ask these questions to gain insight into your personality to determine if you will be a good fit with the company culture. Remember to be relaxed and be your authentic self. Best of luck in acing your interview!

    Learn more about Krista Wenz