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Common Interview Questions

To help you prepare for your next job interview, here are 30 common interview questions and answer examples.

Common was updated by Rachelle Enns on October 26th, 2021. Learn more here.

Question 17 of 30

Tell me about your education.

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Hiring companies commonly ask this question of recent graduates. The interviewer wants to know how your education or training has prepared you to succeed in the job. The goal of your response is to highlight your education and training. Then, make a connection between the knowledge you gained and how you will apply that knowledge to succeed in the role.

There are many ways to gain education, so avoid underestimating the training you've received by stating that you don't have any education to discuss. Whether it be formal (college, university courses, or career training modules) or informal education (self-learning, self-guided courses), the hiring company wants assurance that you have the training or knowledge required to do the job successfully.

If you do not have a formal post-secondary education, that is okay! Self-learning is education, too. Perhaps you recently gained skills through an online course or masterclass that will help you perform very well in this new role. If that's the case, be proud of your accomplishment and be prepared to talk about how this training will ensure your competency and success.

Whether or not the hiring company requires a certain education level, it's essential to show the interviewer that you have the necessary knowledge to do the job correctly. When outlining your training, be sure to discuss the learning opportunities and experiences most relevant to the position. You will also want to highlight any particular involvement, awards, or accolades you received along the way. If you attended post-secondary studies, you likely learned core skills transferable to any career path. For instance, if you worked on group projects in school, you could share how your education improved your ability to collaborate in challenging environments. In addition to the core knowledge gained from your diploma, certificate, or degree, think about the soft skills that you have earned: - Time Management - Creative Thinking - Proposal Writing - Public Speaking - Presentation Building - Independent Learning - Academic Research - Self-Motivation Confidently discuss what you learned and highlight how you will apply the knowledge to benefit the hiring company.

"I graduated from USD with my Bachelor of Science, major in computer science in 2007. I received various scholarships due to my strong grades, and I was on the Dean's List for three out of four years. My best grades were in algorithms courses, and I did very well with learning complex concepts. My education helped build a strong foundation and professional discipline, allowing me to continue to develop in-demand skills while working for the fastest-growing tech companies in the world."

"My post-secondary education was in communications and journalism. The courses in this program helped me to develop stronger business relationships through professional correspondence. I also learned persuasive writing skills, which have proven to be incredibly helpful when editing client proposals."

"I received my Master's in Computer Engineering and Computer Science in 2009. Before that, my undergraduate degree was in computer science. These valuable educational experiences helped me build my career in an in-demand and competitive industry. One area where I particularly flourished was in Computer Science Project Management, making me well-suited for leadership roles where I oversee developers and engineers."

"I have a Bachelor of Arts in English and a minor in Spanish from UBC. I graduated with a 3.8 GPA, which I am very proud to have earned. I worked full-time while going to school, so I learned a lot about time management and discovered that I work best under some degree of pressure. The skills that I learned during university have helped me grow my career quickly. I have above-average communication skills, and since graduating, I have continued to refine many competencies. This continued education includes learning the art of negotiation and building my confidence in public speaking. I look forward to bringing my knowledge and professional skills to your company and complimenting your incredible team."

"I have my associate's degree in fashion merchandising and a bachelor's degree in media and communications. I received a scholarship for my excellent grades, and I was involved in various student body groups. My fashion merchandising knowledge helps me in my current job, as I plan a store's displays, assist with curating collections, and develop social media campaigns. My training in media and communications helps me to build better connections online and in person. Whether working alongside a customer, our seasonal buyers, or going to a local fashion event, I can fit in easily and contribute to critical goals by utilizing the knowledge that I gained from my formal post-secondary education."

"In 2011, I completed my Bachelor of Education degree with a minor in kinesiology. I graduated from UofS with honors and made the Dean's List for three years. During university, I played competitive sports and was the volleyball team captain in my final year. Currently, I am entertaining the idea of furthering my education to include a Master of Education, which I can complete online through Yorkville University. As a teacher, I value continuous learning and want to ensure that I set an exceptional example to the high school students that I teach."

"I earned my business degree with a major in economics from UW, where I also took part in their international exchange program. This exchange took me to Singapore for 12 weeks, which was an incredible experience. I even learned how to speak a little bit of Malay and Mandarin Chinese. So, while I focused my education on macroeconomics and the global trading system, I also gained valuable soft skills in culture and communication. Additional soft skills that I gained, which will certainly help me in this new role, are time management, cross-collaboration, and how to be intrinsically motivated."

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How to Answer: Tell me about your education.

17. tell me about your education..

Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022

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• Career Planning
• Finding a Job
• Interview Strategies

Interview Questions About Your Educational Background

What Employers Want to Know

• Types of Interview Questions
• Questions Asked About Education
• Tips for Answering Questions
• How to Make the Best Impression

It's important to be prepared to discuss your education with hiring managers during job interviews. A certain level of education may be a  job requirement for the position , so the interview will validate whether you have the credentials listed in your resume or application.

For some jobs, education will relate specifically to the qualifications required for the job for which you're applying. For others, especially  entry-level positions , it will be an indication of your ability to handle the role.

During a job interview, you will likely get one or two questions about your educational background. You might get a general question such as, "Tell me about your educational background," or a more specific question like, "What coursework have you taken that relates to your career?"

The hiring manager will ask questions about your education to learn how it has prepared you for the job. If you are a recent graduate, you can highlight how your education has prepared you for a career.

If your academic background is not very extensive or does not meet the requirements of the position, you can use your answer to explain how the education you do have connects to the job.

Types of Interview Questions About Education

There are a number of types of interview questions an employer might ask about your education. First, he or she might ask a question about how your major or minor, or your coursework, relates to the job you are applying for.

You also might get questions about why you selected particular courses or majors, or even why you chose the college you went to.

Some employers might ask you to describe a particular class project or assignment that relates to the job.

These kinds of questions are most common if you are a recent graduate, because your memory of your coursework is still fresh.

You might also be asked a question about your grades or your  GPA . For example, an employer might ask whether you think that your GPA or grades could reflect your ability to do the job.

Finally, a hiring manager may ask a question about why your educational  background does not fit the requirements of the job . For example, if a master's degree is recommended for the job and you do not have one, an employer might ask you to explain why you have not pursued a master's degree, or how your lack of a master's might impact your ability to do the job.

Typical Questions Asked About Education in a Job Interview

1. tell me about your educational background..

What They Want to Know:  This is a straightforward question. Interviewers want to confirm what level of education you have, and confirm it matches what you noted on your resume or application. This is also an opportunity for you to connect your education to skills that will be relevant in the job at hand. 

My degree in American history helped me develop the research skills necessary for a job in library science. For example, for my senior project, I researched historical newspapers at three different libraries, and also conducted extensive online research. My ability to find and read a variety of sources will allow me to help students that approach me with similar questions.

2. How has your education prepared you for your career?

What They Want to Know:  Interviewers are eager to see any connections between your academic knowledge and your career. In some cases, there may be a direct connection — for example, you may have a master's in education, and are applying for a role as a teacher. Other times, the connection may be less clear-cut, and this question can be a way to show you think on your feet and can draw connections.

I know that a bachelor's degree in English literature may feel very far afield from computer science, but one thing I've discovered while working as an engineer is the importance of communication. Those were skills that got really sharp through my undergrad experience. Then, of course, once I was in the workforce and realized programming was a passion, I attended graduate school in computer science at ABC University to strengthen my technological skills. 

3. Tell me about how a particular course or course project helped you succeed in a project with an employer.

What They Want to Know:  Interviewers are looking for you to connect your academic experience with work, and show that your academic skills are applicable. 

In my undergrad history class, we needed to work in groups to present a paper. It involved a lot of collaboration, and our group was chosen randomly, so we didn't have a pre-existing relationship. I quickly realized we needed an organizational leader and assumed that role. I find that often happens in offices too: There are a lot of people with passion and knowledge, but someone needs to direct and organize that energy. Recently, I worked on a project to update the company style guide, and found myself developing the framework for how we would organize the work, solicit feedback, and incorporate ideas. 

4. Do your grades reflect your potential?

What They Want to Know : You may get this question if your grades are not high. It's an opportunity for you to explain why they are not higher. If you have a strong GPA, of course, you can answer "yes" and elaborate a bit. 

At my college, it was always very clear which classes to take if your goal was a high GPA. Not only did I opt to take the more challenging classes—which meant sometimes getting lower grades than my peers—but I also participated in the track team, which required devoting many hours to practice, and held a part-time job. I'm proud of my experience in college, but as you can see, the grades are just one portion of what I did. 

5. Why have you not opted to pursue a master's degree?

What They Want to Know:  In some industries, a master's degree can be an indicator of ambition. Or, the interviewer may simply be curious if you plan to return to school. This is also an opportunity to show how you continue to learn and expand your skills, even if you are not getting a graduate degree. 

I did not pursue a master's degree because I had developed extensive programming skills while pursuing my undergraduate degree, and for this reason I was ready to begin my career in coding as soon as I graduated. For example, by my senior year, I had become fluent in Java, Python, C#, and PHP. Because of my coding knowledge and professionalism, I successfully moved up in the ranks at the first company I worked for after college. However, I continue to seek educational opportunities; for example, I am currently learning Ruby and Objective-C through an online program. 

6. Do you have any regrets about the way you spent your time during college?

What They Want to Know:  This question asks you to do some self-reflection, and can show interviewers a lot about your character. While it's likely best to avoid an answer that says flatly, "I don't have any regrets," you'll also want to avoid any response that is too negative or is self-sabotaging. 

I had a truly wonderful college experience. In general, I just wish I could have done more: taken more classes, participated in more extracurriculars, and attended even more guest speaker events. I got so much out of the experience, and did my best to balance academics with building relationships. 

7. Why did you not complete your college degree?

What They Want to Know:  This is an opportunity for you to explain why you haven't completed your degree. Since this can look like you don't have follow-through or commitment, try to point to an explanation for why you didn't finish the degree (a family situation, a better opportunity) that shows you are responsible. 

Midway through college, I had a summer internship with a start-up company. During that summer, I got very immersed in the creation of a product that became the focal point for the company's marketing strategy. I was asked to stay on, so deferred going back. I'd imagined it would just be a year, but it wound up turning into a big opportunity, and so I suck with that company, working there for 5 years. It's always on my list to complete the degree, but I've found, so far, that the degree isn't necessary for me to perform in the workplace.

Some other questions you may get about your education include: 

• What extracurricular activities did you participate in ?
• What influenced your choice of college?
• What other schools did you consider attending?
• Why did you choose your major ?
• Who helped you decide which college to attend?
• Do you have any long-term education goals?
• What skills have you learned in college that apply to your career?
• Your major doesn't relate at all to this job. Do you still think your coursework has helped prepare you for this job?

Tips for Answering Questions About Your Education

Connect your education to the job.  Whatever the specific question, be sure to  connect your educational background and other job qualifications to the position . Before your interview, make a list of the skills and  experiences  required for the position, and then think about courses you took and projects you completed that  helped you develop those skills .

Consider extracurricular activities.  You don't only have to include examples from coursework. Think about  extracurricular activities  at school that helped you develop specific skills or abilities necessary for the job.

Consider transferable skills.  If you majored in a topic that is unrelated to the job, try to think of  transferable skills  you developed in your courses that apply to the job. For example, perhaps you majored in English but are applying for a job in consulting. Talk about how all of your essay assignments helped you develop  communication skills , which are required for working with clients.

Go beyond the resume.  The hiring manager likely knows what school you went to and what degree you received, since this information will be in the  education section  of your resume. When answering questions about your education, don't just repeat what is stated on your resume. Mention a unique course or experience that shows how your educational background has prepared you for the job.

Don't be modest.  Now is not the time to downplay your academic achievements. Don't be afraid to mention an award you won, or an "A" you received for a project.

Don't lie.  If your grades were not good, or you did not complete your degree, don't lie to the employer. He or she will easily be able to find out whether you are lying. However, you can answer a question about your education honestly while still demonstrating why you are a good fit for the job. For example, if you did not complete your degree, you might emphasize the skills you developed through your coursework, and then highlight the work experience you gained when you left school.

How to Make the Best Impression 

Be prepared to discuss your education, and draw connections between the skills you gained there and the role at hand. 

If you did not complete a program or degree, or did not perform well, this is also an opportunity to explain that. And, if you did perform well, this is your opportunity to mention any acknowledgements or achievements. 

Finally, think of questions about your education as being a bit of a conversation-starter.

This is an opportunity for you to share a bit about yourself—your interests, why you chose your major, and so on.

You might find that this question turns the interview from a back-and-forth question-and-answer session into more of a conversation, which is typically a good sign during an interview. 

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Talking About Your Educational Background in a Job Interview

In job interviews, your educational background is a crucial part of your personal and professional experience that employers want to know about. It is an indicator of your knowledge, skills, and ability to learn and excel in a professional environment. Therefore, it’s important to be able to effectively communicate your educational background in a job interview to showcase your qualifications and increase your chances of getting the job.

We will also touch on specific examples and strategies to help you highlight your educational achievements and stand out as a qualified candidate. With this information, you will be better equipped to showcase the value of your education and impress potential employers.

Importance of Educational Background in Job Interviews

When it comes to job interviews, being well-prepared can make a significant difference. One of the most critical aspects of preparing for a job interview is being able to articulate your educational background effectively. Employers tend to ask about your educational background because it offers insight into your skills, knowledge, and potential as a candidate.

Why Employers Ask About Educational Background

The reason employers ask about educational background is to evaluate if the candidate has the necessary skills and qualifications essential for the job. Employers want to ensure that a person’s educational achievements align with the role they are being considered for. Asking about educational background allows employers to narrow down the candidate pool and select individuals who have a greater chance of succeeding in the position.

In addition to that, educational background provides a brief idea of a candidate’s strengths, weaknesses, and areas of expertise. This information can be used by employers to customize their questions, assessments, and even job offers, based on the candidate’s background.

How Employers Use Educational Background to Make Hiring Decisions

Employers use a candidate’s educational background to make informed decisions during the recruitment and selection process. A candidate’s educational achievements can reflect their work ethic, discipline, and ability to learn new things. Employers look for candidates who have diverse experiences and education, as they add value to the company.

Educational background is used by employers to verify that candidates have the necessary education and credentials to meet the job requirements. In some cases, employers may also use a candidate’s educational background to determine compensation, promotions, and opportunities for career advancement.

Employers ask about educational background because it is a critical part of the hiring process. A candidate’s educational achievements can provide valuable insights into their skills, knowledge, and potential as a candidate. Therefore, job candidates should be able to highlight their educational background effectively to make a lasting impression on the hiring team.

What to Expect: Common Interview Questions About Educational Background

In any job interview, the subject of educational background is almost always going to be addressed to some extent. Employers are interested in candidates’ academic qualifications, because they want to hire people who possess the knowledge and skills that are necessary for the job. This section will provide you with insights into some common interview questions related to educational background, and tips for answering them.

Common Interview Questions Related to Educational Background

Below are some common interview questions related to educational background:

• What is your highest level of education?
• What degree(s) do you have, and from which school(s)?
• What courses or majors did you take, and how do they relate to the job?
• Did you participate in any extracurricular activities or clubs, and how did they prepare you for the job?
• Are you planning to pursue any further education or training in the future?

Tips for Answering Interview Questions About Education

Here are some tips for answering interview questions about your education:

Be Honest and Confident: Answer the questions truthfully, but don’t be afraid to highlight your strengths and accomplishments. Employers want to know what you’re good at and what you can bring to the table.

Make Connections: Try to relate your education to the job position you’re applying for. If you took courses or majored in subjects that relate to the job, emphasize that. Highlight how your extracurricular activities or clubs developed skills that are relevant to the job.

Show Your Passion: Show enthusiasm for your education and how it has prepared you for the job. Employers love candidates who are passionate about their careers.

Be concise: While it’s important to provide detail, you want to avoid oversharing. Provide only relevant information to the question.

Prepare Early: Review your educational background details beforehand to ensure that you are confident in your responses.

Your educational background is an essential topic in any job interview. Be prepared to answer related questions, communicate your qualifications confidently, and make clear connections to show your fit for the job.

Preparing to Discuss Educational Background in Job Interviews

When it comes to discussing your educational background in a job interview, preparation is key. Taking the time to research the company and job requirements, reviewing your educational background and experiences, and determining what skills and knowledge you gained from your education can make all the difference in how you present yourself as a candidate.

Researching the Company and Job Requirements

The first step in preparing to discuss your educational background in a job interview is to research the company and job requirements. This can help you not only tailor your responses to fit the company’s needs, but also demonstrate that you have a genuine interest in the role and the organization. Some key areas to research include the company’s mission statement, values, and any recent news or industry trends. Additionally, carefully review the job description and note any specific skills or qualifications that are required or preferred.

Reviewing Your Educational Background and Experiences

Once you’ve researched the company and job requirements, it’s time to review your own educational background and experiences. Make a list of all of your relevant degrees, certifications, and other educational achievements, as well as any relevant work or volunteer experiences. Consider how each of these experiences has prepared you for the job and think about specific examples of how you have applied the knowledge and skills you gained in these roles.

Determining What Skills and Knowledge You Gained from Your Education

Finally, when preparing to discuss your educational background in a job interview, it’s important to determine what skills and knowledge you gained from your education. This can be a tricky area to navigate, as you want to showcase your strengths without going overboard or sounding arrogant. Try to focus on specific examples of how your education has prepared you for the job, such as relevant coursework or projects, and relate them back to the job requirements. Additionally, consider any extracurricular activities or leadership roles you may have held in college, as these can demonstrate valuable soft skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

Preparing to discuss your educational background in a job interview takes some time and effort, but it can pay off in a big way. By researching the company and job requirements, reviewing your own educational background and experiences, and determining what skills and knowledge you gained from your education, you can present yourself as a strong and qualified candidate who is genuinely interested in the job and organization.

How to Talk About Your Education in a Job Interview

When discussing your educational background in a job interview, it is essential to showcase your academic achievements and highlight your relevant coursework and projects. You need to convince the interviewer that your education has prepared you for the job and demonstrate how it has equipped you with the necessary skills that can add value to the company. Here are some tips to help you talk about your education effectively in a job interview.

Discussing your educational background

When asked about your educational background, try to keep your answer concise and straightforward. Mention where you attended school, your degree or certification, and the year you graduated. Talk about your academic achievements, such as your GPA and any honors or awards you received. However, be careful not to come off as arrogant or boastful. Remember, you’re just trying to give them a sense of your educational background.

Highlighting relevant coursework and projects

If you’re applying for a job that is related to your field of study, you should highlight any relevant coursework and projects that you completed during your academic career. These can demonstrate your skills and knowledge related to the job. For instance, if you’re applying for a job in marketing, you may want to discuss your practical experience in creating and executing a marketing plan during your coursework. Additionally, if you collaborated on any group projects, you could talk about how you worked with others to achieve a common goal.

Explaining how your education has prepared you for the job

Here is where you can shine by explaining how your education has prepared you for the job you’re applying for. Draw parallels between the skills and knowledge you acquired in school and how you can apply them to this job. Use the job description as a guide and discuss how your education aligns with the requirements of the role. It’s essential to communicate your critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that you have honed through your education. Be specific and give examples.

Discussing your educational background in a job interview could be a make-or-break factor in getting the position you want. By highlighting your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and projects, and explaining how your education has prepared you for the job, you increase your chances of impressing the interviewer and landing the role. Remember, you want to come across as confident and knowledgeable, but not arrogant or boastful. Good luck!

Examples of How to Talk About Your Education In a Job Interview

During a job interview, the interviewer will almost certainly ask you at least one question about your education. As such, it is essential to prepare your answers beforehand to impress the interviewer and show your qualifications. Here are some samples of answers to common interview questions about education, along with tips on how to tailor your responses to specific job requirements.

Sample answers to common interview questions about education

Question 1: what is the highest level of education you have completed.

Answer: “I have completed a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from XYZ University.”

Explanation: Giving a straightforward answer is crucial to this question. Remember to mention the degree and the university’s name to show the quality of your education.

Question 2: What was your favorite course in college?

Answer: “I really enjoyed my Advertising and Promotions course. It gave me an excellent foundation for effectively and creatively marketing products to various audiences.”

Explanation: Your answer should highlight a specific course that is related to the job position you are applying for. Explain why you enjoyed the course, and how it has helped you develop critical skills.

Question 3: How has your education prepared you for this job?

Answer: “My education focused extensively on digital marketing, analytics, and communication skills. These skills are crucial to the job position I am applying for as a Digital Marketing Specialist.”

Explanation: Always relate your knowledge and skills learned from your education to the job position’s requirements.

Tips for tailoring your responses to specific job requirements

It is essential to tailor your responses to the job position’s specific requirements to demonstrate your capability and qualifications.

Research the job position’s requirements and company culture before your interview. This can help you better understand what the interviewer is looking for.

Use specific examples from your education that are related to the company’s job position. This helps to highlight how you can be a valuable asset to the company.

Be concise and personable in your responses. Stick to the point and refrain from going off-topic. Maintaining an engaging conversation with the interviewer is crucial.

Finally, practice, practice, practice! Practice with a friend or family member beforehand to increase your confidence and ease during the interview.

Talking about your education during a job interview can be a great opportunity to show your qualifications and experience. Remember to prepare your answers in advance and tailor them to the specific job position’s requirements. Practice your responses to help ensure that you present yourself positively and confidently during the interview.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Talking About Your Education in a Job Interview

When it comes to discussing your educational background in a job interview, there are several common pitfalls you should aim to avoid. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Don’t overemphasize your GPA:  While your grades are important, they shouldn’t be the sole focus of your discussion. Instead, talk about how your coursework and academic experiences prepared you for the role you’re applying for.
• Avoid being too general:  Simply stating where you went to school and what you studied isn’t enough. Try to be specific about what you learned and how it could be applied in a professional setting.
• Don’t make irrelevant or lengthy tangents:  While it’s good to have a clear understanding of your educational history, going off on tangents unrelated to the job can make you come across as unfocused or unprepared.

Now that we’ve identified some common mistakes to avoid, let’s move on to overcoming nervousness or uncertainty about discussing your education.

• Practice your talking points:  Before the interview, make sure you’re comfortable discussing key points related to your educational background. This can help you feel more confident and prepared.
• Think about how your education is relevant to the job:  Consider what skills and knowledge you gained in school that could help you excel in the role you’re applying for. Focusing on these areas can help you stay on topic and emphasize your qualifications.
• Prepare for potential questions:  Think about questions the interviewer may ask related to your education, such as how it relates to the role, what you enjoyed most, or what challenges you faced. Preparation can help you feel more confident and better able to answer these questions.

It’s important to approach talking about your educational background in a job interview with confidence and focus. By avoiding common mistakes and taking steps to feel more comfortable, you can increase your chances of impressing the interviewer and securing the job.

Using Your Education to Stand Out in Your Job Search

As a job seeker, having a strong educational background can give you an advantage in the job market. However, simply having a degree or certification isn’t always enough to stand out from other candidates. It’s important to know how to leverage your educational background to differentiate yourself from other job seekers. Here are some tips:

How to use your educational background to differentiate yourself from other candidates

Identify your unique skills: Take some time to reflect on the knowledge, skills, and experiences you gained through your educational background. Think about how they can be applied to the job you’re applying for, and how they differentiate you from other candidates.

Highlight relevant coursework: Include relevant coursework in your resume or cover letter that showcases your expertise in a particular area. This can provide hiring managers with a better understanding of your educational background and how it relates to the position you’re applying for.

Showcase projects or research: If you completed any impressive projects or research during your education, highlight them in your resume or cover letter. This can demonstrate your ability to apply your knowledge to real-world situations.

Certifications: If you have any relevant certifications, make sure to mention them in your resume or cover letter. This can show that you have not only completed formal education but also continued your learning in your field.

Highlighting your educational accomplishments on your resume and cover letter

When it comes to highlighting your educational background on your resume and cover letter, keep in mind the following tips:

Keep it concise: Make sure to only include the most relevant and impressive accomplishments. Don’t overload your resume or cover letter with too many details.

Use action verbs: When describing your educational background, use strong action verbs that showcase your accomplishments. For example, “Graduated with honors” or “Developed and completed a research project.”

Emphasize transferable skills: When highlighting your educational background, don’t just focus on the degree or certification itself. Instead, emphasize the skills and experiences you gained that can be applied to the job you’re applying for.

Your educational background can be a powerful tool in your job search. By identifying your unique skills, highlighting relevant coursework and projects, showcasing certifications, and emphasizing transferable skills, you can differentiate yourself from other candidates and stand out to hiring managers.

How to Address Gaps in Your Education in a Job Interview

When it comes to job interviews, discussing gaps in education or work experience can be a challenging topic. However, with the right approach and preparation, you can turn any perceived weaknesses into strengths. Here are some tips for addressing gaps in your education or work experience during a job interview:

Be honest and transparent: The worst thing you can do is try to cover up or lie about any gaps in your education or work experience. Instead, be honest and transparent about why there may have been a lapse in your record. Perhaps you took time off to care for a family member or overcome a personal challenge. Employers will appreciate your candor.

Spin it positively: Rather than dwelling on the gap itself, focus on the positive steps you took during that time. For example, did you volunteer or take additional courses to further your skills and knowledge? Use this as an opportunity to showcase your work ethic and motivation.

Tie in relevant experiences: If you’ve had work or life experiences that are relevant to the job you’re applying for, be sure to highlight them. This can include internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects that demonstrate your skills and aptitude for the position.

Show willingness to learn: If your gaps in education or work experience mean you lack certain skills that would be beneficial for the job, express your willingness to learn and grow. Employers appreciate candidates who are coachable and adaptable.

By taking these steps, you can confidently address any gaps in your education or work experience and demonstrate to potential employers that you are the best candidate for the job. Remember, it’s not about avoiding the issue but rather addressing it head-on and showing how you’ve taken steps to overcome any challenges that may have arisen in your career path.

The Role of Continuing Education in Career Development

Continuous learning and self-development are crucial for career growth and advancement in any industry. As a professional, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies and continuously improve your skills to open up new opportunities and advance your career.

The Importance of Continuing Education in Career Advancement

Continuing education not only helps you stay competitive in the job market but also adds value to your current role within an organization. By learning new skills and techniques, you can become more efficient and effective at your job, and bring new ideas and perspectives to the workplace. Additionally, demonstrating a commitment to learning and growth can set you apart from other candidates when applying for promotions and new job opportunities.

How to Highlight Ongoing Learning and Development in Job Interviews

During a job interview, it is important to showcase your ongoing learning and development to make yourself a more attractive candidate. Here are some tips to help you do that:

Highlight professional development courses or certifications: Mention any relevant courses or certifications you have taken, especially those that relate to the skills required for the job you are interviewing for.

Describe how you have applied your learning: Be specific about how you have applied what you have learned and how it has helped you improve your work. You can give examples of how you have used your new skills to tackle certain tasks or projects.

Discuss your future learning goals: Show your interviewer that you have a plan in place for ongoing learning and development. Talk about what courses or certifications you plan to pursue next and why they are relevant to your career goals.

Emphasize your passion for learning: Show your enthusiasm for continuing education by discussing any personal projects or hobbies you have that require you to learn new skills. This can demonstrate that you are someone who is constantly seeking to improve and grow.

Continuing education plays a vital role in career development and advancement. By staying current with the latest trends and technologies, and continuously improving your skills, you can remain competitive in the job market, add value to your current role, and open up new opportunities for career growth. Remember to showcase your ongoing learning and development during job interviews to make yourself a more attractive candidate.

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How to Respond to the Interview Question: "Tell Me About Your Educational Background"

8 min read · Updated on August 15, 2023

Don't panic when the interviewer asks you this key question

Interviewers often ask candidates about their educational background. Should you come up against this question, you may not know where to start. After all, the education section of your resume covers all the main points. Fear not - there is a right way to navigate this. In the following guide, we take a look at what this question is about and how to answer it.

What does educational background mean?

First up, let's talk about what your educational background is. As you might imagine, the interviewer is asking about your qualifications, i.e. the courses you took at school and college. If you've taken any additional courses or done extra training, now is a good time to mention them, too. The more value you can add to their company, the better. 

Of course, as the old saying goes “everyday is a school day.” So, your educational background is not merely about what happens in the classroom. Over the course of your working life, you will have picked up a whole range of desirable skills. You should never overlook the things that you've learned when on the job. When the interviewer pulls out this question, take a moment to consider what other nuggets of information you can share.

Why your educational background matters

Education matters in the working world. In some roles - such as a Doctor or Lawyer position - the qualifications you have will be vital to landing the job. In other positions, you may find that your educational background includes “nice to have” qualifications.

When the interviewer asks you this key question, they want to know what you've learned and what expertise you have. You can view this in two ways: it's about your formal education and whatever you've learned in the workplace.

Now, your resume will cover the basics here. You will already have given the recruiter a detailed description of your qualifications. The recruiter does not want you to recite your resume verbatim. Equally, you wouldn't have made it to the interview stage if you're lacking the qualifications you need for the job. So, take a deep breath and don't panic.

When faced with the educational background question, you have the unique opportunity to expand and shed light on what you've learned along the way. The interviewer already knows what qualifications you have, so tell them what skills each of them taught you. Keeping this in mind when you are answering this tricky question is the best way to succeed. 

How to respond to this interview question

Now that you know what the educational background question is all about, let's talk about how you can answer it. As we've already covered, reeling off your qualifications won't do you any favors. Instead, you need to add some color to your answers. Give the interviewer a reason to pick you over all of the other interviewees. If you're not sure where to start, you've come to the right place. Here are some of the tips you can use: 

Be straightforward and honest 

It should go without saying, but you need to be 100% honest here. Lying about your qualifications will get you nowhere fast. Don't tell the interviewer what they want to hear unless it also happens to be true. You're not The Talented Mr. Ripley and nor should you try to be. When answering this interview question, always stick to the facts.

Get into the interviewer's mindset 

The interviewer already knows what qualifications you have. So, when you're answering the educational background question, you need to dig a little deeper. To get the best results, you need to get into the interviewer's mindset and understand their motives. This interview question is not about your qualifications per se - it's about how you can apply your knowledge to the role at hand. Talk about what skills and expertise you have here. 

When constructing your answer, avoid talking generally about your education. Remember, the interviewer wants to get down to the nitty gritty of your expertise. Consider how your qualifications have best equipped you for this particular vacancy. When you focus your answer on this aspect of the question, you should find that you wow the interviewer. 

Start with your most recent qualifications 

With most stories, you should start at the beginning. However, kicking things off with your kindergarten education is a sure-fire way to bore the interviewer. Instead, you need to use reverse chronological order. That means starting with your most recent qualifications. That may be a master's degree, a bachelor's degree, or your GPA, for example. 

Rather than simply listing the qualifications that you have under your belt, talk about the professional skills you've learned from each of them. For instance, you might say “While studying journalism, I mastered shorthand at 80 WPM, learned about the intricacies of media law, and took a module on court reporting. The skills I learned on this course proved invaluable in my first role as a News Reporter, in which I often attended court cases.”

Relate your educational background to the job role 

Never take your eyes off the prize. When you're in an interview, your only goal is to land the job. With that in mind, this is not a chance to wax lyrical about your college days. The interviewer doesn't need to know about your favorite professor or that hilarious prank you pulled. To help you stay on track, you need to relate everything back to the vacancy. 

You can do this by demonstrating how the things you've learned apply to the duties of the role. Before the interview , make sure you've familiarized yourself with the job specification. That way, you should have no problem referencing any of the relevant duties when you're answering the educational background question. 

Talk about your on-the-job education 

It's not all about your academic background. If you've been in the industry for a matter of years, chances are you've picked up a rainbow array of new skills. Talk about them now. After you've covered your formal education, move on to any workplace training or additional learning you've undertaken. That may be a mentorship, working with senior staff members, or even taking an evening course to spruce up your existing skills. 

Hint: Interviewers love candidates with big aspirations . You can conclude your answer by focusing on what you hope to learn in the future. For example, you may want to talk about any training programs that the company has in place, plans you have to take classes, and how you wish to develop your skill-set. Sliding this into your answer is never a bad move.

Educational background example answer

Maybe a model answer would help you to understand how to respond when an interviewer says “tell me about your education.” Here's just one idea of how you could pull it together…

I studied French at college, which, alongside a year spent in France, enabled me to develop fluency in the language. I was then able to secure my first job as a bilingual Customer Service Executive, helping customers to resolve their problems and enabling the business to retain their custom. While in that role I continued to learn, taking internal courses in customer service and conflict management, before finally enrolling on their leadership development program. That gave me the skills and confidence to step into a leadership role shortly after, where I've developed my people management skills further. I hope to continue my professional development in this role, using my leadership and language skills to support expansion across Europe while sharing the knowledge I've acquired so far to enable career progression within the wider team. 

Stand out from the crowd

When an interviewer asks about your educational background, they really want to know what you are bringing to the table. Follow our tips and advice on how to craft an answer that wins them over. Be sure to highlight how your education relates directly to the role for which you're applying. That simple trick is enough to set you apart from the crowd. 

Ready to upgrade your career? Learn how to ace your next interview by working with one of our expert TopInterview coaches . If you want to get ahead of the competition, this approach will help you along the way. 

Recommended reading: 

5 Tricky Interview Questions and How to Handle Them

Answering “What Are Your Strengths?” Interview Question (With Example)

The Art of the Interview: From Fear to Fun

Related Articles:

How to Prepare for a Software Engineering Job Interview

27 Financial Analyst Interview Questions (with Great Answers)

27 Supervisor Interview Questions (and Great Answers)

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How to answer: Tell Me About Your Education

When it comes to applying for internships or even high-level jobs, chances are they want to bring your education background to light. This question is typically asked for internships or positions with strict degree requirements. Knowing how to leverage your academic accomplishments can help your employer see how dedicated you are to learning. 

Likewise, employers ask this question to gauge your determination and work ethic in places other than a workplace. They would like to see your educational background align with the position’s requirements and responsibilities. Both formal and informal education can help aid you in the process of answering this question.

Tips on how to answer: “Tell me about your education.”

Following these steps can help your interviewer better understand your educational background.

Make it recent and relevant

What courses have you recently taken? Reflect on recent education rather than what you did years ago, unless it’s an impressive feat. Interviewers like to hear about fresh experiences — and knowledge is no different.

Don’t restate your resume

You most likely have critical features about your education noted in your resume. This may include honors, GPA, clubs, and more. Instead of restating, elaborate more on how you were able to achieve what you’ve stated.

Highlight additional skills

If you received any certifications or worked in extracurriculars — mention that. The fact that you’ve gone out of your way to gain extra knowledge will seem valuable to your interviewer.

Mention that you’re still learning

You can end this question off on a high note by stating any instances of outside education. Going to workshops, conferences, or a training program are valid reasons. Saying that you’ve undergone additional certification courses, or have learned specific skills can also aid your response. 

Examples on answering: “Tell me about your education.”

Sample answers on discussing your educational background.

• “Though I am still in high school with no real work experience, the medical classes that I’ve taken have taught me about modern experiences in the field. I have also joined my school’s medical club, where we have traveled to visit esteemed doctors and learn more about the medicinal field.”
• “HJ University graduated me with a bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in English. I have had the opportunity to be lectured by top psychologists in their field. I was also a part of an official study as one of the main researchers, where we conducted several experiments to prove a popular theory. With my university’s approval, I managed to get this study on my school’s public database. My minor in English has also aided me in soft skills, such as effective communication and leadership.”
• “At UA University, my education was fruitful and brought many delightful experiences that have taught me how to perform well in the aviation field. My professors made me engage in hands-on learning, which helped me transition seamlessly to an actual plane environment.”

Good luck with your interview!

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Why Do Employers Ask the Question?

How to answer the interview question: "tell me about your educational background".

Updated January 15, 2024

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Imagine: it has been seven years since you completed your degree in biochemistry and applied physics. Since then, a lot has happened; you’re not the environmental physicist you initially intended to be.

Instead, you’re a self-taught web developer seeking your first web development role.

So, how do you answer the interview question , "Tell me about your educational background"?

'Tell me about your studies' is quite a common interview question. This article will go through what a potential employer is looking for when they ask it.

Spoiler: it is less a detailed history of your every achievement, and more an understanding of your knowledge, commitment and decision-making skills.

How Else Might This Question Be Asked?

Before delving into interviewers' potential motivations and what makes a good answer, first consider how the question might be phrased and what this tells you about the employer.

Tell Me About Your Academic Background

When an employer asks for information on your academic achievements, they’re not expecting you to list every subject you’ve studied and the grades you achieved.

Instead, they want you to highlight the academic achievements you are most proud of and reference how they have shaped the professional you are today.

Tell Me About Your Studies

Now, this interview question is slightly different in that it is not necessarily talking purely about formal education.

You could summarize your formal education before moving on to more recent studies, which could be online self-study or government-funded courses.

The important thing to remember though is that you need to be able to evidence any achievements.

How Does Your Education Relate to Your Career?

An employer may ask you this if there is no apparent link between what you studied at university and the role you are applying for.

How to structure your answer is discussed in detail further down in this article.

But, in brief, what the interviewer wants to hear here is that there is a deliberate connection between your past and present.

You are more likely to be invited by an employer to tell me about your educational background if you graduated not long ago or you’re applying for a role that requires certain qualifications.

While the employer would have already selected you for an interview after reviewing your resume, they may not know the intricacies of what you studied.

When they ask you to tell me about your studies, they invite you to evidence how your academic knowledge will benefit their organization.

They are looking for clear indicators of how your educational experience has prepared you for the job on offer.

For instance, you may have studied Advanced Engineering , which is an essential trait on their job description , and therefore you were called to interview.

However, one of the desirables was ‘wind turbine engineering’. If you wrote a paper on the subject, built a prototype or even studied the economics of wind farms, here’s your chance to express your knowledge and impress them beyond your resume.

By asking you to "tell me about your educational background", an employer is also seeking to understand how driven and targeted you are.

If you have four degrees in completely unrelated subjects, it could suggest to an employer that you are flighty and perhaps unsure of what career path to take.

However, if you can join the dots in the interview and explain what motivated you to embark on a course and how your choices have a logical purpose, you will show a strong level of self-awareness .

Of course, quite often, the question "What is your educational background?" is often company policy , especially during the graduate recruitment process where the employer is looking for specific qualities.

Suppose they have shortlisted a dozen graduates to interview, all with virtually the same qualifications.

In this scenario, they’re more interested in how you approached your studies and the transferrable skills have rather than what you studied (more on this below).

How to Answer "Tell me About your Educational Background"

When an employer asks you to tell me about your educational background, what they’re really asking you is, "What skills have your educational studies equipped you with? And how are these relevant to the job?"

Research the Organization and Role

Before you even attempt to answer the question "Tell me about your academic background", you must research the employer and the role.

In your interview preparation, list the 'Essential' and 'Desirable' criteria on the person specification for the role. Then, go through your history and find an example from your educational background that shows how you meet these.

This will form the basis for your answer.

Start Recent

If you have an extensive educational background, you might be wondering where to even start with answering the question "Tell me about your studies".

The logical place is with your most recent formal education.

For most, it will be either a university course or a high school diploma. For others, it could be a doctoral degree.

However, do not just repeat what’s in your resume . The employer is looking for more detail.

They want to hear you talk passionately about the studies that most appealed to you and what they taught you.

Mention Relevant Placements

Remember, an employer is seeking to identify the most knowledgeable and experienced candidate.

If you’re fresh out of university, you may feel you lack work experience.

Draw the employer’s attention to any practical experience you had. Make sure you reference what you learned from your experience and why it is relevant to the role.

For example, you may have worked on a prototype for a company in the same industry or spent a year on placement at a similar place.

Emphasise Your Strong Transferrable Skillset

You may need to dig deep with your answer and think about all the transferrable soft and technical skills you acquired during your studies.

Here are some examples of some soft skills you could talk more about (be ready with a real-life example of each one):

• Problem-solving
• Decisiveness
• Ability to work under pressure
• Public speaking
• Self-motivation
• Creative thinking

Likewise, you will also want to mention any relevant technical skills you acquired. These could include things like:

• Project management
• Big data analysis
• Programming
• Content creation
• Academic research
• Building/designing

Show Commitment to Continued Learning

Employers favour candidates who have a thirst for learning.

If you can demonstrate how you have continued to advance your knowledge in a specific field, you will stand out.

Continued education says to the employer that you are driven and committed.

Example Answers to Questions About Your Studies

To help you structure your answers so that you can use your educational background to its full advantage, here are three example answers. Each is to the question phrased in different ways.

This is a relatively direct way of asking what they want to know and is a good place to emphasise your transferable skills.

Example answer:

I majored in History and Sociology with first-class honours, which has directly prepared me for the role of a research assistant. Each subject I studied involved having an intense understanding and application of quantitative and qualitative research. I even studied behavioural science as part of my sociology course, which enabled me to delve deeper into the psychology of subjective interviewing to alleviate bias.

Tell Me Why You Chose the University That You Did

This is more focused on your academic education. The interviewer wants to hear about factors when you make big decisions.

Well, I wanted to make sure that I chose the course that would not only push me but specifically enable me to pursue a career as a Blue-Chip Project Manager . Therefore, I made a shortlist of three colleges offering similar opportunities, all with a placement year. Then, I visited each of the colleges, in turn, asked lots of questions, sat in on lectures and spoke to others who had majored that year before arriving at my chosen college. I also explored the preferred colleges listed by the employers I could see myself working at.

Why Did You Choose to Step Away From Your Area of Academia?

This is an interesting take on tell me about your educational background. It may come up if you are making a career change from academia to industry.

The employer may also ask you if your degree is very specific, and the role you’re applying for is seemingly unrelated. Therefore, you will need to form a strong answer.

Initially, I studied Data Science and Business Analytics because I wanted to be at the forefront of using technology to drive business change. During my studies, I was placed within an HR team that wanted to use data analytics to understand employee behaviour. While working with the HR project management team, I discovered that I was interested in understanding and supporting employees to reach their goals. Therefore, I chose to supplement my studies by taking various Personnel and Behavioral Psychology courses, which makes me quite a rounded candidate for the HR graduate position.

What to Avoid in Your Answer

There are several things you will want to avoid when answering the question "Tell me about your educational background":

• Talking about irrelevant studies – Keep your answer focused. Unless you’re applying for a theatre hand, there’s not much point in discussing your drama studies.
• Exaggerating your knowledge – You may have experienced a two-week educational placement at a leading magazine and have several articles published. While this does show that you are a promising writer, it does not make you an established journalist. Saying so may have you come across as aggrandising and untruthful.
• Comparing yourself to others – Try not to say, ‘compared to others in my year’. You may be the only one to have arranged an overseas placement, but you won’t want your drive to be mistaken for arrogance.
• Overworking your answer – Your answer to "Tell me about your studies" doesn’t have to be very long. It just needs to be relevant. You’ll tie yourself in knots if you overexplain your background.

Final Thoughts

Remember just to be honest .

You can’t go wrong if you provide a clear answer that explains your academic decisions to an employer.

If you started a course and realized it wasn’t for you and enrolled in a different one the following academic year, explain the reasons to the interviewer. They’ll appreciate that you know your own mind.

When an employer says to you, "Tell me about your educational background", they are genuinely interested in your answer. After all, in part, you have been selected for interview because you have the right qualifications.

However, they really want to know how you apply yourself, what skills you have and how they can benefit from your academic knowledge. If you can answer all three of these questions in one answer, you won’t go wrong.

Lastly, good luck – if you’ve been selected for an interview, you’re already part-way there to landing the job!

You might also be interested in these other Wikijob articles:

Or explore the Interview Advice / Interview Questions sections.

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Here's How to Tell If You Qualify for Spousal Social Security Benefits

May 10, 2024 — 07:36 am EDT

Written by Matt Frankel for The Motley Fool  ->

Social Security spousal benefits are designed to provide much-needed retirement income to married couples where one spouse was the primary earner. Situations where one spouse had a particularly high-paying career or where one spouse was a stay-at-home parent are two common examples.

As of March 2024, nearly 1.9 million people received spousal retirement benefits, with an average monthly payment of $911.68. When combined with the average retired worker's benefit of $1,913.31, the typical household that receives a spousal benefit generally gets approximately $2,825 per month (or $33,900 per year) in inflation-protected retirement income from Social Security.

With that in mind, here's a rundown of how to qualify for spousal benefits, some important rules to know, and more.

Image source: Getty Images.

Do you qualify for Social Security spousal benefits?

To qualify for Social Security spousal benefits , there are a few basic criteria that need to be met.

First, the spouse must be at least 62 years old or caring for a qualifying child. The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines a qualifying child as one under 16 or who receives disability benefits from Social Security. In other words, if you're 60 years old and have a 14-year-old child, you can qualify for spousal benefits.

Another important rule is that in order to collect a spousal benefit, the primary earner must be collecting their own Social Security benefits. These benefits are officially listed as being for "spouses of retired workers," so the primary worker must claim their own retirement benefit before any spousal benefit can be paid on their work record.

Important things to know

In addition to the qualifications, there are a few other important things couples should know about spousal benefits.

First, the maximum spousal benefit is one-half of the primary earner's full retirement benefit. For example, if you would receive $2,000 per month if you started collecting Social Security at full retirement age, your spouse could receive up to $1,000 per month. Second, you can get a spousal benefit or the benefit based on your own work record if eligible -- whichever is higher.

Additionally, while spousal benefits require an age of 62 (or having a qualifying child), the full Social Security retirement age is 67 years old for people born in 1960 or later. If you claim a spousal benefit before you reach full retirement age, the benefit will be permanently lowered.

If you claim a spousal benefit at age 62, it can be as little as 32.5% of the primary earner's full retirement benefit, not half of it. Note that the reduction doesn't apply in cases where the beneficiary has a qualifying child in their care.

Finally, while spousal benefits are reduced for early retirement, they're not increased if the spouse waits beyond their full retirement age to claim them. (This is unlike benefits for retired workers.) In other words, if a retired worker waits until 70 to claim their benefit, it will be much higher than it would have been at their full retirement age. Spousal benefits don't increase in this way.

If your spouse is entitled to a spousal benefit on your work record, it rarely makes sense to delay your own Social Security filing beyond their full retirement age. After all, they can't start collecting spousal benefits until you claim your own Social Security.

The bottom line on spousal benefits

Spousal benefits can provide additional inflation-protected retirement income and be an important component of a couple's financial security in retirement. By knowing the qualification rules and how they work, you'll be in a better position to incorporate them into your retirement income strategies.

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Zombie colleges roam the internet, here's how to spot a legitimate, living university

A USA TODAY investigation has exposed websites set up for closed universities posing as viable colleges.

Whoever is behind the copycat sites has been collecting application fees and personal student identity information. Once USA TODAY reached out to them for comment, some of the sites and their application links came down.

The investigation also found a network of fictitious colleges claiming to be accredited, generally the gold standard of legitimate universities in the U.S., however, those accreditors appear to be fabricated as well.  (Do you know more about these colleges, tell us. )

Investigation: Zombie colleges? These universities are living another life online, and no one can say why

So how can prospective students know which schools actually offer an education and which may be fronts for something else?  Luckily, there are telltale signs.  But it may take some sleuthing. 

Is it accredited?  

If a university wants to offer federal student aid, it has to be:

◾ Approved by a college accreditor.

◾ Approved by the state it resides in.

◾ Certified by the U.S. Department of Education, based, in part, on the first two.

Oversight of a school’s academic offerings falls to the accreditor, who is expected to review curriculums regularly. These accrediting agencies also visit schools in person.  

Prospective students can see if a school is truly accredited by looking it up on the federal government’s consumer guide to schools, the College Scorecard . Universities also often list their accreditors on their websites, which students can check against the accreditors’ own lists. Many states maintain a list of schools they have authorized as well. 

Check the web address 

It can be as simple as just checking the end of the university’s web address. 

Generally, only accredited colleges can use a .edu domain in their URL. Domains ending in .college, .education, or .university aren’t restricted to educational institutions, though. The website backed by former staffers at Marymount California University is marymountcalifornia.edu whereas the imposter website is at marymountcalifornia.education.  

Or pick up your phone and try to reach someone in college admissions. Legitimate colleges have entire staffs eager to talk to prospective students. It’s their job.

Some of the questions to ask: 

◾ When is the next application deadline?

◾ What do you need for the application? An essay? Test scores? Do you accept the Common Application , a form used by hundreds of colleges?

◾ How much does your program cost? Do you offer federal financial aid?

How do I tell if a college accreditor is real?  

Some of the imposter websites appeared to have created their own accreditors. Skeptical applicants can verify an accreditor's legitimacy by checking the Education Department’s list of approved agencies .

Note: Some accreditors are set up to approve only specific academic programs. Look instead for institutional accreditation, i.e., approval of all of the schools’ operations.  

Pay close attention to accreditors’ names too. Some counterfeit schools claimed accreditation by the “United States Higher Learning Commission.” That is close to the actual accrediting organization known as “The Higher Learning Commission.”   

Does the school have an address? Google it 

Some of the counterfeit universities claim strange addresses. The original Stratford University, for example, was in Virginia, but the imposter says the university is in Kentucky. In that case, a Google Street View search of the Kentucky address reveals no signage for a university.  

Many of the fictitious universities on the website of the Ministry of Higher Education Commission, one of the made-up accreditors, list unusual physical addresses too. The address for “Dakota Hill University,” for example, is actually home to Black Hills State University, a school that is accredited. USA TODAY found other schools with addresses that showed up on Google as nondescript office buildings, even parking garages. 

Be aware of the university’s size too. Some legitimate and smaller schools focused on career skills can be in office parks. But such a location would be unusual for large state or private colleges.  

Has anyone else attended this college? Who teaches there?  

Try to find past students. With LinkedIn, it’s easy to locate graduates of any college. Some schools also have alumni associations where prospective students may be able to learn more about the institution.  

Be wary of student testimonials that live solely on a college’s website because those could be fabricated by the operators of the university. Apply the same skepticism to sites that gather anonymous reviews such as Yelp – or even the reviews you might find on Google or Facebook.   

University professors should also have a web presence. Legitimate colleges often have individual web pages for their faculty members. Some college websites also feature past course catalogs. The new Stratford website, in contrast, listed only broad descriptions of its degree offerings and did not indicate who would be teaching those courses. That also was true of other zombie sites.  

Chris Quintana is a reporter on the USA TODAY investigations team with a background in higher education and student loans. Contact him at  [email protected] , @CquintanaDC on Instagram and X, or by Signal at 202-308-9021.   

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Leading change and creating community: Meet the undergraduate students who founded the School of Education Student Government 

As small as the School of Education is relative to larger departments on campus—with around 400 undergraduate majors and teacher licensure students on avergage—the founding officers, Emma Hoeschler and Maia Parkin, saw a need for helping connect education students beyond shared cohorts, coursework and field experiences. Hoeschler and Parkin are graduating, and they are proud of the program's goals and accomplishments.

Over the past two years, the entirely student-led organization has grown in membership and participation. Several students have had opportunities to serve executive roles, such co-president, senator, director of finance, or director of student engagement. Student Government Officers have band to together to host community-building events, such as Teachers Hit the Trail at Chautauqua last fall, stress relief activities with emotional-support dogs during finals week, an end-of-the-semester Field Day celebrating featuring good-natured lawn competitions this spring, and more.

In addition to light-hearted activities, the School of Education Student Government leaders have taken on important policy advocacy roles at the State Capitol both alongside other CU Boulder Student Government officials and flying solo by providing expert testimony about the experiences and challenges in becoming an educator as state legislators negotiate the terms of legislation that directly supports the state’s student teachers and future educators.

Learn more about CU Boulder School of Education Student Government in the words of four of its founding members: Kendall Goldenson, Emma Hoeschler, Lauren Levey and Maia Parkin is this Q&A.

Why did you and fellow founders decide it was necessary toestablish the School of Education Student Government? 

The School of Education Student Government works to bridge the gap between CU Boulder’s campus and the larger Boulder community. Given our students’ roles in schools across the state, we believe that the Student Government has the potential to promote lasting relationships and advocacy efforts throughout Boulder and the state of Colorado as a whole. Our organization has grown exponentially over the past two years and has been very successful in engaging with School of Education students and community members. 

Tell us more about your goals, vision, and impactful policy work. 

As the School of Education Student Government, we believe that we are critically positioned as the liaisons between students, faculty, staff, the university, and beyond. School of Education students are constantly impacted by government decisions as future government employees. 

For us, Student Government is a way to strengthen the community in our School of Education through events, advocacy, and resources. This year, we wanted our initiatives to follow just that, and our goals were widely guided by: community building, professional development, political advocacy, and collaboration. 

It's important for student voices to be heard by our local leaders. A lot of the bills on the floor of the Colorado House and Senate right now directly impact us every day, and it's so important that we have our voices and opinions heard. Additionally meeting with local and state leaders is not only amazing networking but provides us with the tools to make and enact real change at CU and Beyond. I (Lauren) have been to the State Capitol three times with student government, twice for advocacy with a larger group and once to testify on behalf of a bill that directly affects a lot of student teachers. We are the future of this state and it's important that we are educated on important student-facing issues and that we make our voices known. 

Speaking of policy advocacy, several CU Boulder Student Government Representatives were at the State Capitol meeting with legislators and the governor earlier this semester. What does a “day in the life” at the State Capitol look like for you, and what kinds of issues did you speak to as education students? 

In addition to our meetings with state legislators, we had many students testify on bills, sharing with a larger audience their real experiences as students at CU and how these bills will help them in their everyday lives. While none of the bills we advocated for on that day were specific to our experience as educators, we as student leaders from the School of Education have been working on support for HB24-1290 Student Educator Stipend Program. This bill is working to expand the program that offers stipend pay to student teachers throughout Colorado. Maia, Emma, Kendall, and I (Lauren) have been working on this bill with representatives from the state since last year and I (Lauren) even got to testify on behalf of it in the previous session. This bill is something we as the student government will continue to advocate for. 

Editor's note: HB24-1290 passed in the Colorado House and Senate in early May hearings that took place after this conversation with Student Government Officers. 

Is there anything else you want us to know?

Students can learn more about the School of Education Student Government on the  student government webpage,  and follow the @cusoesg instagram account for up-to-date opportunities to engage with the  Student Government leaders during the academic year.

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• college sports executive kiki baker barnes tells uno graduates be

CAMPUS NEWS: MAY 10, 2024

Commencement 2024, college sports executive kiki baker barnes tells uno graduates be ‘ready to embrace the unexpected’.

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College sports executive and University of New Orleans alumna Kiki Baker Barnes gave the commencement address at the University’s spring 2024 commencement ceremony held Thursday, May 9.

College sports executive and University of New Orleans alumna Kiki Baker Barnes, who holds both a bachelor’s degree and doctorate from UNO, knew without a doubt that she was a spectacular shooting guard. She’d excelled at the position all through high school, which is why she balked when her junior college basketball coach suggested she move to point guard.

The move felt like a setup for failure because handling the ball under pressure wasn’t her strength, Baker Barnes said Thursday at UNO’s Lakefront Arena where she delivered the keynote address during the spring commencement ceremony.

“This wasn’t just a change in position,” Baker Barnes said. “It was a transformation in role and mindset.”

She resisted—despite her coach’s insistence that her height and quickness would make her a formidable point guard and could help get her to the next level of the game.

She complained—repeatedly—to herself, said Baker Barnes who, in 2022, became the first African American woman commissioner in the history of the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference and in any conference in the history of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, an association founded in 1937 that includes more than 250-member institutions.

Her recurring complaint: “I don’t see why he’s making me do all of this. It’s not like there is a professional basketball league for women in the United States,” Baker Barnes recalled.

When Baker Barnes graduated high school in 1993, the WNBA did not exist. Her coach relented and moved her back to her more comfortable post of shooting guard.

Fast forward to 1997 when Baker Barnes had just completed her undergraduate degree at UNO, as well as a stellar collegiate basketball and track career. She was offered a tryout with the WNBA, the new women’s professional basketball league that would debut that year.

“I was ecstatic,” Baker Barnes said. “I made it through the first round of cuts. I was playing some of my best ball!”

She was cut in the second round and was devastated. Her college coach would tell her later that the scouts thought she was skilled, quick and athletic. However, they were looking for a point guard, Baker Barnes said.

She encouraged graduates to take three pivotal lessons from her story.

“First, understand that just because an opportunity isn’t visible right now, doesn’t mean it won’t emerge,” Baker Barnes said. “Let this inspire you to pursue your dream with an open heart and an eager mind, always ready to embrace the unexpected.”

Second, remember that preparation is your most reliable guide through the unknown, Baker Barnes said.

“Equip yourself not just for the paths you anticipate, but also for the unforeseen challenges that may arise,” she said.

Lastly, she urged graduates to embrace failure as a necessary chapter in their success story.

“The true test is not in avoiding failure but in how you respond to it … How you choose to move forward from these moments will shape your journey and define your legacy,” Baker Barnes said.

“Graduates … step boldly into the future, prepared for the unknown, resilient in the face of setbacks and always eager to turn hidden opportunities into triumphs.”

The 2024 graduating class hailed from 32 U.S. states and territories and 32 areas abroad.

During the commencement, UNO President Kathy Johnson presented Baker Barnes with a medallion as a symbol of the University’s gratitude and applauded the graduates for their perseverance.

“My deepest hope is that your education at the University of New Orleans will enable you to help change our world for the better as you enter into this next phase of your life, whether that entails a career, more school or public service,” Johnson said.

The next step for music studies major Kalif Brown is going on tour with entertainer Robin Barnes and the Fiya Birds, he said.

“I play drums, piano and I sing,” Brown said.

But first, he had to keep a promise to his mother and collect his college diploma, said Brown, who carried a mortar board decorated with family photos.

“This is everybody who has helped me get to this point so far. You see a lot of pictures of my mom on here, that’s because my mom had me at 16 years old and I know I made (her life) a little more complicated,” Brown said. “One thing she always said is that she wanted to see me walk across the stage, and I promised her that I would do that.”

Meanwhile, Julia Mai plans to parlay her bachelor’s degree in biological sciences to become a physician assistant. Mai, who started a pre-PA club at UNO, is headed to graduate school to pursue a Master of Physician Assistant Studies.

Mai said she’s excited for what the future holds for her and for the future of the career support organization she helped to start.

“I want to express my gratitude to Dr. Michael Doosey for not only being the best club adviser ever, but for also being a huge advocate for the club since the start,” Mai said. “I look forward to seeing what the future holds for the UNO Pre-PA Club!”

English major Whittinee Cox’s mortar board perhaps proclaimed a sentiment held by many of the graduates as they laughed and posed for selfies in groups, in front of their college banners and solo. The glittery mortar board stated: “There ain’t nothing gonna stop me NOW!”

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