What three words would you use to describe yourself?

"Three words that best describe me are optimistic, adaptable, and loyal. By nature, I am very positive, upbeat, and always look on the bright side; I bring that attitude to work every day. I'm also very adaptable, flexible, and can think on my feet. When plans change or something goes awry, I can stay calm and readjust with ease. I'm also extremely loyal to the people and things I care about. It is important to me to be a person of great integrity, so I can be counted on to do what I say I will do and stick around, even when times are tough."

This is a classic interview question, so you should have a few adjectives prepared to share and explain. If you are unsure, consider the feedback you've gotten from trusted colleagues or managers in the past, or take an online strengths test to help yourself generate words that accurately describe you. Carefully pick three words and share how you exhibit each one.

Tell me about your experience with data entry systems.

"I do not have any experience with data entry systems yet. In my last role, we tracked contact with students just in our own individual spreadsheets. However, I have been in the position before where I had to learn new platforms and systems quickly to succeed in my role. With some training and practice, I am confident in my ability to grow comfortable with the data entry system you use on campus."

Whether you have experience with data entry systems or not, be honest and upfront about your experience and capabilities to learn new systems. If you have been trained on and learned any software or program in the past, be sure to share how you could catch on quickly, ask questions, and become familiar with the new technology. Limited experience with data entry systems will not disqualify you from consideration, but you should definitely communicate your willingness and ability to learn any necessary programs quickly.

What kind of work environment do you thrive in?

"I thrive in an environment that is collaborative, supportive, and driven. I perform at my best when goals are clear, progress is communicated, and feedback is shared. I want to rely on and trust my colleagues, and I want them to do the same for me. I believe in mutual respect, the sharing of ideas, honesty, clear communication, and positivity. I am excited to contribute all of these things to the work environment every day."

Even if you have no prior work experience, you likely have an idea of what kind of collaborative environment makes you feel most welcome and successful. Consider how you would want colleagues to treat each other and the department's goals. Consider how you would work collaboratively and how employees would be recognized and challenged. Share a few adjectives with the interviewer that highlight your ideal environment to work in every day and what you would bring to that environment.

What kind of advising model do you use?

"I prefer the developmental advising model that encourages a strong relationship between the advisor and student as important life and career decisions are made. My favorite part of the job is getting to know students, their passions, and their hopes and dreams. I want to be a trusted staff member on campus who will walk alongside students and help them through the big decisions that come every semester. I am very much looking forward to establishing relationships and helping students thrive academically and personally."

There are several different approaches to academic advising, and the interviewer wants to understand where you stand when it comes to your preferred advising philosophy. There isn't necessarily a wrong answer here, but it would be a good idea to do some research to understand the process the university favors better. Three main models include developmental advising, prescriptive advising, and intrusive advising. Developmental advising involves a close personal relationship between the student and the advisor to support the student's educational and personal goals. Prescriptive advising involves the advisor simply telling the student what decisions to make and what is best. Intrusive advising involves intentional contact with students to promote academic success and perseverance. Whatever your preference, be sure to explain why you support one model and how it aligns with your overall goals for the job.

What computer skills do you have?

"I am very confident on the computer and know my way around email, Google Suite, Microsoft Office, and am a quick learner. I am confident that with some training, I would pick up on any required platforms or software used in the advising office."

As a student advisor and working on a college campus, you will be expected to know your way around a computer and be willing to learn the specific platforms and programs they use. The advising office likely uses specific software to track students, enroll them in classes, and organize schedules and credits earned. Express to the interviewer that you will catch on quickly to any required software with some training and be honest about your general computer skills.

Tell me why you are interested in this job.

"First off, I love the well-rounded approach your advisors take to ensure not only that students graduate on time, but that they are emotionally and physically well and take full advantage of their college experience. I have been preparing to be a student advisor since I was in high school. I have so many ideas already, and I'm passionate about pouring them into the lives of young people. Our students need us to be kind, understanding, empathetic leaders, and I am ready to step into that role. I want to be the kind of student advisor I wish I had in college. I am so ready to begin this new journey, and I can assure you, I will make a positive impact here."

It is a good idea to say certain things that demonstrate you've done your homework in getting to know the school throughout your interview. This question provides a great opportunity to show off all of the research you've done in preparation for your interview. Pick out a few of the desired qualifications that you possess from the job description, and share with the interviewer why you would make a great fit as the school's next student advisor. Now is the time to share something specific that will make you stand out amongst the crowd of applicants.

If someone were to get upset with you, how would you handle the situation?

"This scenario is likely to occur at some point in a professional setting. Many times when people are upset, they really want to be heard. I would listen to their dilemma and empathize with their feelings. I would plainly state my perspective, the policy of the university, or any relevant information. Then, I would explain their options and offer to assist them in any way I can. I would remain polite, professional, and calm as I helped them out."

Whenever you're dealing with a wide variety of people daily, heightened emotions are more than likely, at one point or another. Your job will be to remain professional and calm and handle the situation as a staff member and leader on campus. Regardless of who the upset person is, you are to demonstrate that you would hear them out, explain yourself plainly, and apologize for the confusion or miscommunication. Be sure your answer reveals your commitment to customer service and university policy.

How would you reach out to a student who has not enrolled in courses for a semester?

"I would be persistent in reaching out to the student via email and phone, first. If getting ahold of them was difficult, I would contact the RA in their dorm, their parents, and/or their roommate to make sure they were okay. I would do everything in my power to ensure the student was set up for success in the coming semester. If I found out they were nervous or apprehensive, I would listen closely to their concerns and address them."

As a student advisor, one of your main responsibilities will be to assist the students assigned to you to register for classes each semester. You will also need to communicate with students who are difficult to reach. If you found yourself in this situation, consider how you would approach the student. Brainstorm a few strategies you would turn to ensure the student did not miss out on selecting their classes. The interviewer will want to hear that you are persistent in reaching out to students and making sure they are successful.

Why are you the best candidate for us?

"I am the best candidate because my student advisor impacted me, and I want to be the same safe space for other students. For me, it goes much deeper than ensuring students are enrolled in classes and graduate on time. The college years are formative, and having committed, trusted adults on campus who students can turn to in times of need is crucial. I am ready and so excited to take on that challenge and impact generations to come in this role."

Before the interview, be sure to have read the job description several times, so you are well prepared. Pick out a few of the desired qualifications that you possess and share with the interviewer why you would make a great fit as the school's next student advisor. Now is the time to share something specific that will make you stand out amongst the crowd of applicants. Instead of saying something like 'I enjoy working with students,' dig deeper for a reason you'll be successful in this role that is unique to you. Sharing something personal and unique will leave a lasting impression on the interviewer.

What do you enjoy the most about our university?

"Something that drew me to apply to this university is the approach you take to get every student involved. I love the well-rounded approach your advisors take to ensure not only that students graduate on time but that they are emotionally and physically well and take full advantage of their college experience. I saw pictures of your street fair on your social media channels, where every club was represented and recruiting members. The university does so many things to make clubs, intramural sports, and other extracurriculars accessible to students and sincerely encourages participation. I am so excited to help students get plugged in on campus."

This question provides a great opportunity to show off all of the research you've done in preparation for your interview. Be sure to explore the school's website and social media pages, stop by to visit if it is close by, and maybe even talk with current or former employees to ask questions and get familiar. It is a good idea to say certain things that demonstrate you've done your homework in getting to know the school throughout your interview. Whatever it is that you share, be sure it is unique to that school.

Tell me why you believe you will be a successful student advisor?

"I have been preparing to be a student advisor since I was in high school. I have so many ideas already, and I'm passionate about pouring them into the lives of young people. Our students need us to be kind, understanding, empathetic leaders, and I am ready to step into that role. I want to be the kind of student advisor I wish I had in college. I am so ready to begin this new journey, and I can assure you, I will make a positive impact here."

Before the interview, be sure to have read the job description several times so you are well prepared. Pick out a few of the desired qualifications that you possess and share with the interviewer why you would make a great fit as the school's next student advisor. Now is the time to share something specific that will make you stand out amongst the crowd of applicants. Instead of saying something like 'I enjoy working with students,' dig deeper for a reason you'll be successful in this role that is unique to you. Sharing something personal and unique will leave a lasting impression on the interviewer.

What individual has had the greatest influence on you?

"My father has had the greatest influence on me. He is not only an incredible dad who has taught me so much but his marriage and dedication to my mother are inspiring and not something you see every day. Looking back on my childhood, I am amazed at his ability to carry so many things. He was an extremely hard worker; he attended every sporting event, he helped me with my homework, he and my mother traveled together, and he held our family together. He has shaped me into the person I am today, and I can only hope to follow in his footsteps."

This question is asked to get to know you and what resonates with you. Consider who has had the greatest influence on your life and be ready with a few reasons why. The interviewer will be listening closely to hear what you are influenced and inspired by. Be prepared to share how you hope to make a similar impact in your life.

Why do you want a career as a student advisor?

"Growing up, I was lucky enough to have a few very influential people in my life who encouraged me and called out the best in me. One of those people was a teacher I had in high school, and the other was my uncle. I am so grateful that those two men took time out of their lives to pour into me and help me make some difficult life decisions along the way. I want to do the same for students who are just beginning to get to know themselves and have a lot of life in front of them. I want to be a resource for students and a safe place to land. I am so excited for the opportunity to get to know students and walk with them through their schooling experience."

Be sure to share openly and honestly here, as this question really gets at your passion and motivation for the job. If you were formerly influenced by a student advisor or a mentor of some sort, share the impact they had on you and the fact that you want to return the favor. Maybe you enjoy working with students, helping them forge their path, and make important decisions. Whatever the reason, be sure your excitement about the job shines through in your answer. Be specific, convincing, and honest about your motivation and hopes for the job.

What motivates you to succeed?

"In my last role, staff members could submit 'shout outs' for each other that would appear on our weekly announcements. Whenever I was recognized for something, from having a positive attitude in a difficult situation to covering for a colleague to going above and beyond in my work, I would feel so filled out. I appreciate words of affirmation at work; they motivate me because I know people are paying attention to my work. In return, I make sure to submit staff shoutouts each week, as well, so that my colleagues are also motivated by the recognition."

Consider what really gets you excited about doing your job well. Maybe you are motivated by competition, positive praise, seeing a project come to fruition, meeting personal or team goals, or simply a job well done. Whatever it is that fires you up and makes you want to perform at your best, share that with the interviewer. If there was a particular time you felt motivated at work, provide some context and share the result. They may use whatever you mention to help motivate you, should you be offered the job.

What was the last book you read for fun?

"The last book I read for fun was Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate. I like a good page-turner and historical fiction is my favorite genre. The story takes place in Memphis in 1939 and is about siblings who are abducted and then put up for adoption by a corrupt orphanage. It was very suspenseful and unlike anything I've read before. I try to read a couple of chapters every night to wind down, and I really liked that one!"

This question is asked to get to know you better on a personal level. Be honest with the interviewer and share something you've read recently, purely for enjoyment. This question opens up an opportunity to share your feelings about reading, different genres, authors, and when you find the time to read. Feel free to share a little bit about yourself here, as the interviewer is looking to get to know you.

If I called your boss right now and asked him or her what is an area that you could improve on, what would he or she say?

"My current boss would tell you that I tend to hold on to my ideas and sometimes lack the confidence to bring them to the whole team. She is currently working with me on this, but she is right. When I am not totally comfortable, I only share my ideas with her instead of during our team meetings. She is helping me out with this by intentionally bringing me into the conversation and specifically asking everyone to share. I also have started to run ideas by individual team members before meetings to get their feedback. I have definitely come a long way, and I am opening up much more with my team."

It is always best to be open and honest, especially when potential references are brought up, and the interviewer could actually call them and ask this very question. Consider what feedback or area of improvement was recommended to you by your former boss. Of course, do not share something that would be a deal-breaker for this new job, but something that can be improved upon with a solid plan in time. Instead of defending your ability to do whatever was mentioned, share how you are working on this weakness. This will communicate to the interviewer that you are teachable and humble enough to accept feedback from a superior. Be sure to mention what actionable steps you are taking to thoughtfully and continually improve your abilities on the job.

What was your biggest failure?

"Early on in my career, I ended up sharing information with a group of parents before the school had made the official announcement to share it. The information was about a changing calendar for the following school year, so it was not anything top secret. However, I did not realize that the information had not yet been released to families, and not before long, several parents were asking me questions about it. At that point, I told my principal that I had told several parents without knowing I wasn't supposed to, and I apologized and explained to all parents that I couldn't provide any more details until the school released the information. In the end, I learned to be cautious as to what information I share with families without specific permission and to make sure the school can communicate information to families first, in an official capacity."

Be sure to be thoughtful as you plan your answer to this question. Of course, you don't want to share something that was a colossal failure or that would jeopardize your chances of getting the job. Instead, share something honest, but that was maybe due to a lack of experience or training and what you learned through the process. Failure is inevitable, but the interviewer will want to see that you took what happened as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Give me a time when you went above and beyond the requirements for a project.

"In one of my courses in college, we were tasked with planning a community service project for the area in which our campus was located. We didn't actually have to carry out the project; we just had to provide detailed plans to prove that we could. There were only a few objectives; it had to meet the needs of community members, and we had to come up with a course of action to raise money, create a budget, and spread awareness. My group and I decided to provide a weekly brown bag lunch to disadvantaged people living in the area. We settled on handing out flyers and putting up posters, raising money through the local church, and setting up a tent and tables in the same spot each week. My group and I were so passionate about this project that we actually did carry it out for several weeks throughout the semester. We ended up meeting some very nice people and learned a lot in the process. I am really proud of the work I did to make our plan become a reality and help the community."

Employers value employees who are willing to go above and beyond without being asked to do so. They are looking for people who will take the initiative, lead the way, and add value to their team. Share about a specific time in your educational or professional career in which you went beyond the call of duty to implement a new idea or improve upon an old one.

Tell me about an accomplishment you are most proud of.

"I am most proud of graduation with my bachelor's degree with a 3.75 GPA. My journey through college was not a traditional one, and I faced many different roadblocks. I lost a close family member, I worked several part-time jobs, and I had to take a semester off at one point to help my family. I worked extremely hard to make my family proud and prove to myself that I could push through difficult seasons. I learned a lot about who I am throughout college and am so proud of my hard work, dedication, and tenacity."

Take this opportunity to let the interviewer get to know you by sharing something you have accomplished that you are proud of. Now is not the time to hold back or act modest. Share something that you worked hard to accomplish and are truly proud of. It could be something in your personal or professional life, but it should indicate your passions and work ethic.

What have your achievements been to date?

"I am very proud to have graduated from college with a 3.9 GPA. I also was awarded the Leadership Award on graduation day from the College of Liberal Studies at my University. More recently, I have earned a promotion in my current role, enrolled in continuing education classes, and completed my first marathon last fall. I am a very ambitious and motivated individual, and when I put my mind to achieving something, I make it happen."

The interviewer is curious to see what you have accomplished, both personally and professionally, to date. Be honest about any accomplishment that you are proud of, from your GPA to any awards you have won, promotions, and even personal goals. Sharing your achievements will demonstrate your drive, motivation, and work ethic. Be sure to emphasize the work you put in to experience the accomplishment and maybe even something you are currently working towards.

Why should we hire you?

"I am especially excited about this position because I already know several students from coaching club soccer. I would fit in very well, already knowing some students. I also meet all of the desired qualifications listed on the job posting, like experience in education, a proficiency in Google Suite, an adaptable and optimistic nature, and an ability to manage my time and a large caseload of students. I am passionate about working with students, and I plan to be in this position for years to come."

Use your answer to this question to explain further what sets you apart from the crowd. There may be several great applicants with students or desire to make an impact but consider what specifically sets you apart. Maybe you have relevant experience that aligns well with this next step, and maybe you have all the desired qualifications listed in the job description. Maybe you are passionate about this work and plan to have this role for the long haul. Whatever it is, be sure you share something specific and unique that highlights your ability and passion for the job.

How do you evaluate success?

"I evaluate success by reflecting on my relationships. This role is centered around close relationships and trust, so I would judge my success on the fruit of my relationships. I would consider the impact I made on students, their families, and how I served as a resource. I also hope to form positive working relationships with faculty and staff at the school for further collaboration. For a more quantitative measure, I would feel successful if I met with all students on my caseload, helped them plan out their semesters, and discussed a potential plan for their future."

Consider when you feel like you've been successful and what had to happen to make that possible. Particularly when it comes to the role of a student advisor, consider how you might evaluate yourself as successful by the end of the year. Be sure to review the job description to determine if there is a success criterion listed or what successful execution of the job might look like. State what has helped you feel successful in the past and how you will measure success in this new role.

Describe a difficult project and how you overcame it?

"In my previous role, I worked in a school's main office and assisted with recruitment and various tasks. Last year, we were tasked with planning and organizing the testing schedule for the SAT and several AP exams. This was a complex project that affected a quarter of our student population. When it comes to testing, several rules must be followed to ensure that students get their scores and can then send them to colleges they apply to. To carefully work my way through this project, I made sure to read all directions closely, create various checklists, and double-check all of my work. I made sure to communicate clearly to everyone involved--this included students, teachers, and families. It was difficult and time-consuming, but my careful and thoughtful work and listening to advice from the leadership team helped me be successful. After those busy few weeks, I was congratulated by our leadership team for a job well done."

This question is fairly broad, so feel free to use an example from a school setting or a professional setting. Be sure to provide appropriate context so the interviewer can follow your example and understand the difficult project and exactly what steps you took to overcome it. The difficult project is really of little importance here; the interviewer wants to hear evidence of your ability to persevere, seek out resources, and problem solve. Be specific about the steps you took and the decisions you made to overcome your difficult project thoughtfully.

Student Advisor Interview Questions

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1. What three words would you use to describe yourself?
2. Tell me about your experience with data entry systems.
3. What kind of work environment do you thrive in?
4. What kind of advising model do you use?
5. What computer skills do you have?
6. Tell me why you are interested in this job.
7. If someone were to get upset with you, how would you handle the situation?
8. How would you reach out to a student who has not enrolled in courses for a semester?
9. Why are you the best candidate for us?
10. What do you enjoy the most about our university?
11. Tell me why you believe you will be a successful student advisor?
12. What individual has had the greatest influence on you?
13. Why do you want a career as a student advisor?
14. What motivates you to succeed?
15. What was the last book you read for fun?
16. If I called your boss right now and asked him or her what is an area that you could improve on, what would he or she say?
17. What was your biggest failure?
18. Give me a time when you went above and beyond the requirements for a project.
19. Tell me about an accomplishment you are most proud of.
20. What have your achievements been to date?
21. Why should we hire you?
22. How do you evaluate success?
23. Describe a difficult project and how you overcame it?

Student Advisor Interview Questions

1. What three words would you use to describe yourself?

2. Tell me about your experience with data entry systems.

3. What kind of work environment do you thrive in?

4. What kind of advising model do you use?

5. What computer skills do you have?

6. Tell me why you are interested in this job.

7. If someone were to get upset with you, how would you handle the situation?

8. How would you reach out to a student who has not enrolled in courses for a semester?

9. Why are you the best candidate for us?

10. What do you enjoy the most about our university?

11. Tell me why you believe you will be a successful student advisor?

12. What individual has had the greatest influence on you?

13. Why do you want a career as a student advisor?

14. What motivates you to succeed?

15. What was the last book you read for fun?

16. If I called your boss right now and asked him or her what is an area that you could improve on, what would he or she say?

17. What was your biggest failure?

18. Give me a time when you went above and beyond the requirements for a project.

19. Tell me about an accomplishment you are most proud of.

20. What have your achievements been to date?

21. Why should we hire you?

22. How do you evaluate success?

23. Describe a difficult project and how you overcame it?