- Are you familiar with the policies and procedures of our state’s higher education institution?
- What are some of the most important qualities that a dean of student affairs should possess?
- How would you rate the current level of diversity in our student body?
First Round Interview
Interviewing in person, online, or over the phone can be daunting. The best way to shine through as a qualified candidate is to prepare your answers to questions ahead of time. Here are the most common questions you’ll be asked during a student affairs interview: Opening Questions, Competency Questions, Developmental Questions, Administration Questions
Working in higher education as a student affairs professional can be as rewarding as it is challenging. More than the planning of fun social activities, those working with college students must be prepared to deal with increasingly complex and serious life matters which could include suicide and violence prevention, veterans issues, mental health issues, gender and sexual identity, alcohol and drug abuse prevention, and relationship problems.
Candidates with an ability to connect with students and “meet them where they are” will have the most success in keeping participation rates and student engagement high. Crises management skills will be highly valued as college campuses strive to be a safe haven for students. Training and some knowledge of how to deal with serious mental health issues will not be limited only to those seeking positions in a personal counseling role. Candidates with a true understanding of the myriad of issues facing college students and the ability to collaborate with other campus departments to help all students persist and graduate will be highly valued.
No candidate wants to board a sinking ship. The underlying concern here is whether or not the institution is in sound fiscal condition. Additionally, the value an institution places on its student affairs division may be reflected in budget allocations. Candidates should be well informed about these issues before making decisions and can ask the following to glean helpful information:
Job candidates who prepare discerning questions improve the quality of the interview. Such questions force the interviewee to think critically about the position and serve as a reminder that the institution must measure up to the candidates standards. Preparation also improves the flow of the interview by generating active dialogue; the candidate, therefore, is less likely to become a passive interviewee (Figler, 1988).
Candidates should make every attempt to visit with students before accepting a job offer. These conversations provide a clearer picture of the type of student who has chosen the institution. Is this the type of student who will energize the candidate? Are student affairs administrators able to describe students accurately, indicating a good relationship? Possible inquiries of students or staff include:
The student affairs job interview is a two-way opportunity: the employer assesses the candidate and, ideally, the candidate assesses the institution, department and position. The purpose of this article is to suggest ways that candidates can better assess job suitability through discerning questions. This is not a “how to interview” article; rather, it proposes a legitimate and forthright method for obtaining “insider” information that can situate the candidate to make the best career decision.
The well-prepared interviewer should not consider the above questions threatening, particularly when they are phrased positively. Rather, effective interviewers will appreciate the chance to engage in an open dialogue. The result is a dynamic, energized interview which both parties will remember vividly. The candidate will be recognized as well-prepared, genuinely interested and in tune with both practical matters and important issues. The interview is often the only occasion to gather critical information for an important career decision. Candidates should seize this opportunity by actively delving into the nature of the position to determine if the fit is right. Equipped with the information such questions produce, student affairs professionals are more fully prepared to select positions, offices and institutions which match their career goals, philosophies and work styles.
Some other questions that you may be asked during an interview for a student affairs position are provided here for reference purposes:
During the interview process for a student affairs position, you will be judged on your communication and interpersonal skills primarily.
Moreover, you must highlight the fact that you have the capability of counseling and administering student support programs.
You will also be asked how much you know about initiating and developing strong relations with program coordinators.
Student affairs is a huge responsibility, which is the sole reason that employees are hired after a solid interview process.
FAQ
How do you conduct a student interview?
- ask open-ended questions.
- ask follow-up questions.
- keep questions brief.
- rephrase a question if the interviewee evades a question.
- politely challenge the interviewee. …
- embrace pauses and silence, and allow interviewees time to think.
What are the questions asked in interview for students?
- Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?
- What do you know about our company?
- What interests you about this job?
- What are your strengths?
- What do you consider your weaknesses?
- Why do you want to work here?
- Can you describe your ideal work environment?
How do you conduct an interview question?
- Could you tell me about yourself and describe your background in brief? …
- How did you hear about this position? …
- What type of work environment do you prefer? …
- How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations? …
- Do you prefer working independently or on a team?
