2025-2026 Purdue University Career Success Handbook

Sample Interview Questions

Personal

Educational

• Tell me about yourself. • Why did you choose to interview with this organization? • Describe your strengths and weaknesses. • Share an accomplishment in which you are most proud. • What have you learned from a failure? • What can you uniquely offer this position?

• Why did you choose your major? • Why did you choose to attend your college or university? • Which classes interest you the most? • Do your grades accurately reflect your ability? Why or why not? • Were you financially responsible for any portion of your college education?

Critical Thinking And Character

Behavioral

• Recall a time in which you provided a solution to a problem with minimal supervisory input. • Explain a time in which you came up with an innovative solution that involved convincing others. • Share an example of working with a team effort that led to a successful outcome? • Give an example of a time you worked under deadline pressure for a major project? • Give an example of a time you managed unexpected events or new information without any formal training.

• Pick a color that represents your personality and share why you chose that color. • How do you persuade someone who firmly disagrees with your idea/suggestion/plan of action? • How would you describe yourself in three words? • What are you most proud of? • What was the last book or text that you read?

Experience

Career Goals

• What unique skills will you contribute if hired? • In your experience, how have you utilized time management skills? • What is your natural role in a group/team setting? • Tell me about a time you have been disappointed in your performance. • How do you approach conflict resolution in difficult situations?

• What other types of positions are you considering? • Are you able to work on several assignments at once? • How do you feel about the possibility of relocating? • How do you feel about travel? • What do you look for in a boss? • Where do you see yourself in five & ten years?

Questions Candidates Ask Employers

Your best questions demonstrate the research you have conducted on the company. Be sure to ask questions that align with this philosophy. Additionally, below are a few more questions to consider.

• Will I have the opportunity to work on special projects? • Is there a lot of team project work? • Where does this position fit into the organizational structure? • What is the next course of action? When should I expect to hear from you or should I contact you?

• What kinds of assignments might I expect for the first six months on the job? • Does your company provide professional development opportunities? • What are your growth projections for next year? • What do you like best about your job/company?

INTERVIEW AND CAREER FAIR PREPARATION

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