Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Student Counselor Roles – 2021

Preparing for a student counselor job interview? Here is a list of 20 up-to-date interview questions with simple answers to help you showcase your counseling skills, previous experiences, decision-making abilities, alignment with company values and knowledge of industry practices.

General Questions

• 1. Tell us about your previous experience as a student counselor.
  As a student counselor, I have worked with a diverse range of students, helping them navigate through academic, personal, and career-related challenges. I have also facilitated workshops and counseling sessions to promote mental well-being and academic success.
• 2. How do you stay updated with the latest counseling techniques and best practices?
  I regularly attend workshops and seminars related to counseling, and I am also a member of various counseling organizations, allowing me to stay updated with industry practices and incorporate them into my work.
• 3. How would you handle a difficult or emotional student?
  I would start by creating a safe and supportive environment for the student to share their emotions. I would listen attentively and empathetically, validate their feelings, and offer guidance and support to help them cope and find solutions.
• 4. How do you handle confidential information in your role as a student counselor?
  I understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality in my role as a student counselor. I make sure to only share information with relevant parties after obtaining the student's consent, and I also follow strict confidentiality guidelines set by my organization.
• 5. Can you tell us about a difficult situation you had to handle as a student counselor and how you resolved it?
  In my previous role, I had to counsel a student who was struggling academically and was also dealing with personal issues. Through active listening, empathy, and collaboration with relevant support services, I helped the student develop a plan to improve their academic performance while also addressing their personal challenges.

Behavioral Questions

• 6. Can you give an example of a time when you had to deal with a challenging or resistant student?
  In my previous role, I had a student who was struggling with attendance and was not receptive to counseling. Through building a rapport, actively listening, and using motivational interviewing techniques, I was able to understand the underlying issues and help the student make positive changes.
• 7. Tell us about a time when you had to work with a team of counselors to help a student.
  As part of a counseling team, I worked with a student who was battling with depression and suicidal thoughts. Through effective communication, collaboration, and utilizing each team member's expertise, we were able to provide the student with comprehensive support and resources to help them through their difficult time.
• 8. Give an example of how you have used your counseling skills to promote diversity and inclusion.
  In one of my workshops, I utilized a group activity to encourage students from diverse backgrounds to share their experiences and perspectives. Through open and non-judgmental dialogue, I helped students develop empathy and understanding towards each other's differences, promoting a more inclusive environment.
• 9. How do you build trust and rapport with students in a short period of time?
  I believe in actively listening, being empathetic, and showing genuine interest in the student's well-being. I also make sure to communicate effectively and maintain a non-judgmental and supportive attitude, which allows students to feel comfortable opening up to me in a short period.
• 10. Can you share an experience where you had to handle a difficult parent or family member of a student?
  As a student counselor, I have had to deal with concerned and demanding parents or family members. In one instance, I had to explain to a parent the importance of allowing their child to make their own decisions and take responsibility for their actions. Through clear and respectful communication, I was able to address the parent's concerns while also advocating for the student's independence.

Situational Questions

• 11. How would you handle a situation where a student comes to you with a personal issue that requires immediate professional intervention?
  I would first assess the severity of the situation, and if it requires immediate intervention, I would refer the student to the appropriate resources and provide support until they receive professional help. I would also make sure to follow up and check in with the student to ensure they are receiving the necessary support.
• 12. Imagine a student has severe test anxiety, and it is affecting their academic performance. How would you help them?
  I would first assess the root cause of their test anxiety and work with the student to develop strategies to cope and manage their anxiety. This may include relaxation techniques, time management skills, and positive self-talk. I would also collaborate with teachers to provide accommodations for the student during exams.
• 13. How would you approach a situation where a student is struggling academically and does not believe they can improve?
  I would start by acknowledging the student's feelings and strengths, and then work with them to set achievable goals. Through regular meetings, progress tracking, and positive reinforcement, I would help the student build confidence in their abilities and motivate them to improve their academic performance.
• 14. Imagine a student comes to you with a conflict they are having with their roommate. Walk us through how you would handle the situation.
  I would first listen to the student's perspective, then ask questions to understand the issue better. I would then facilitate a discussion between the roommates, focusing on active listening, empathy, and finding a compromise that works for both parties. I would also provide resources for effective communication and conflict resolution.
• 15. How would you handle a situation where a student is experiencing discrimination or harassment from another student or faculty member?
  I would first provide a safe and supportive space for the student to share their experience. I would then inform the student of their rights and options for reporting the incident. I would also provide emotional support and connect the student with relevant resources for further assistance.

Technical Questions

• 16. How do you stay informed about different academic programs and career paths to provide accurate guidance to students?
  I regularly attend professional development workshops and research different academic programs and career paths to stay updated with the latest options available. I also communicate with colleagues and attend career fairs to gather information.
• 17. What is your approach to helping students choose a major?
  I follow a comprehensive approach that involves assessing students' interests, values, strengths, and career aspirations. I also provide them with information and resources about different majors and potential career paths, helping them make an informed decision.
• 18. How would you handle a situation where a student is experiencing academic probation?
  I would first assess the reasons for the student's academic probation and develop a plan of action with the student to improve their academic performance. This may include creating a study schedule, identifying areas for improvement, and utilizing resources like tutoring and academic workshops.
• 19. What is your experience with academic advising and registration processes?
  As a student counselor, I have experience with academic advising and registration processes. I have helped students navigate through course selection, prerequisites, and registration procedures, providing guidance on academic policies and procedures along the way.
• 20. Do you have experience working with students with disabilities, and how do you ensure their needs are accommodated?
  As a student counselor, I have worked with students with various disabilities, and I understand the importance of providing appropriate accommodations and support. I make sure to communicate with the student, understand their specific needs, and work with relevant support services to ensure they have equal access to education.