03 Aug
‘Discuss your educational background.”
Why are recruiters asking this?
An academic question is one based on your education, like: “Explain your educational background.”
Recruiters might be interested to know what you studied if it is unclear on your CV. But most importantly, they might be interested in knowing why you chose your major and how it can be relevant to the job you’re discussing.
Academic questions are more likely to be asked if your education is not in line with the job description. This can be an opportunity for you to show uniqueness and help you stand apart from other candidates with traditional roles. It is a great time to show how you education has shaped the way you see the world and approach problems.
Checklist for a great answer
- Keep it short
- Have a clear story line
- Explain why you chose your major/educational focus
- Connect what you learned at school with the job
Examples
I have a bachelor’s in philosophy and a master’s in marketing. I first decided to study philosophy at university because I was always curious about the meaning of Truth. I also think philosophy is amazing to understand arguments, logic, and structure problems. Philosophy was great to understand how the mind works, I decided to do marketing after my bachelor to apply this knowledge in a commercial setting.
Other similar questions
- Why did you choose your major?
- What is the highest level of education you have received?
- List any other education or training relevant to the (position title) position
How do I get better at these questions?
PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE!
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