When did you make a difference in a child's life?

     Q:   Describe a situation in which you made a difference in a child’s life.

     A:   Karen was one of the students in Mrs. Ginnodo’s fourth grade classroom – a classroom I had been assigned in order to complete some of my field experience hours.  She had been through a succession of foster homes and didn’t have a father and barely knew anything about her mother.  She had two dresses that she alternated wearing from day to day.  She had seen tough times and it was likely that she would continue to do so.  But, for some reason, she and I connected.  I have always enjoyed horseback riding and Karen was a fan of horses.  So, I hunted up some horse books in the school library and we read them together.  We talked about horses, we made models of horses, we wrote horse stories together, we created a PowerPoint presentation on horses, and we even visited a friend’s horse farm one Saturday morning.  Probably, for the first time in her life, she smiled.  And, probably, for the first time in her life someone took the time to learn something about her.  One of my professors always talks about the power of the affect in education.  I got an opportunity to see that power in action…and I’ll never forget it!

            I particularly like this question for several reasons.  It provides an insight into the real educational philosophy of a candidate – a philosophy that goes beyond book learning and memorized strategies.  It allows me to see into the true character of a person and whether her or his commitment to teaching is sincere and passionate.  In short, are they in it for more than just a job?  You would be well-served to practice this question (and your response).  Of course, this is not the time to pontificate (“If it wasn’t for me, she would never have….”), but rather be humble.  Focus on the affective side of teaching and let the interviewer know that you have been touched by students as much as you have by your own teachers and professors.

INSIDER TIP:      Make sure you have some stories about yourself.  Make sure they are relevant to teaching, that some involve experiences other than student teaching, and that they are short.  45 seconds is plenty of time for any anecdote.