School Counselor Mock Interview
Practice 40 School Counselor interview questions covering crisis intervention, student advocacy, and collaboration with families.
Question 3 of 40
What would you do when a student tells you that he or she wants to drop out of school?
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Example Answer
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Ryan Brown created and launched MockQuestions in 2008.
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.
Ryan Brown created and launched MockQuestions in 2008.
"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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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.
Anonymous Answer
I would have a conversation with the student about the reasons behind his decision to drop out so that I can offer a listening ear; depending on the answers, I would ask if there is anything I can do to help, then I would discuss the outlook for students who have dropped out of high school.
Stephanie's Feedback
It's clear that you would approach this situation by listening to the student's reasons and identifying how you could best support from there. I have included a slightly revised suggested response in the "Revised Answer" section below.
I would have a conversation with the student and actively listen to the reasons behind his decision so that I can offer a listening ear and give a safe space to process. Depending on the answers, I would ask if there is anything I can do to help, offer other solutions, and discuss the outlook for students who have dropped out of high school. If he decided to go through with his decision, I would make sure he had the appropriate resources to be able to re-engage in his education in the future, should he choose to do so.
Anonymous Answer
I would ask them what led them to that decision. Talk to them about what goals they have when they leave school and help them come up with a solution that involves staying in school.
Marcie's Feedback
Nice! This is a pretty dire situation. Would you involve their parents or any other school officials?
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