Sample interview questions: Can you share an example of a time when you had to handle a situation where an applicant’s qualifications were exceptional, but they did not meet the minimum requirements?
Sample answer:
In my role as an Admissions Director, I have encountered situations where applicants possess exceptional qualifications that may not meet the minimum requirements set by the institution. One specific example comes to mind when we received an application from a student who had outstanding achievements in extracurricular activities and demonstrated a strong passion for the field of study, but their academic performance fell slightly below our established minimum GPA requirement.
Recognizing the applicant’s exceptional qualities, I initiated a comprehensive review of their entire application to gain a holistic understanding of their potential. I carefully examined their academic records, recommendation letters, personal statement, and any supporting documents that highlighted their accomplishments, leadership skills, and commitment to their chosen field.
To ensure a fair and thorough evaluation, I discussed the applicant’s profile with the relevant faculty members and sought their input on the candidate’s potential for success in our program, despite not meeting the minimum GPA requirement. This collaborative approach allowed me to gather valuable insights from the faculty’s perspective and to assess the applicant’s potential to thrive in our academic environment.
In addition to the faculty’s input, I also personally interviewed the applicant. This allowed me to gauge their enthusiasm, determination, and their ability to articulate their goals and aspirations. During the interview, I probed deeper into their academic struggles, seeking to understand any extenuating circumstances that may have affected their performance and to assess their willingness and capability to overcome these ch… Read full answer