Interviewing Graduates and Instructors: Questions to Ask Schools and Training
Choosing the right school or training program is a significant investment in your future. Gathering information beyond brochures and websites is crucial. One of the most effective ways to gain valuable insights is by directly interviewing graduates and instructors. These conversations can provide firsthand accounts of the program's strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for your goals.
This article provides key questions to ask both graduates and instructors when evaluating schools and training programs. By exploring topics such as curriculum relevance, career support, teaching quality, and program culture, you can make a more informed decision about your education.
Understanding Key Terms
Before getting started, it's helpful to clarify a few terms:
- Graduate: A former student who has successfully completed the program.
- Instructor: A teacher or professor who delivers the course content.
- Curriculum: The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or training program.
- Accreditation: Official authorization or recognition of a school or training program. A good starting point to verify accreditation is through organizations like the U.S. Department of Education: https://www.ed.gov/
Interviewing Graduates: Gaining Real-World Perspectives
Graduates offer a unique perspective on the program's impact on their careers and lives. They've experienced the curriculum, the instructors, and the career support services firsthand. Here are some key questions to ask them:
- What was your overall experience in the program? This open-ended question allows graduates to share their general impressions and highlight aspects they found particularly positive or negative.
- How well did the curriculum prepare you for your current role? This question assesses the curriculum's relevance to the current job market. Ask for specific examples of skills or knowledge gained that have been particularly useful.
- What kind of career support did the program offer, and how helpful was it? Explore the types of support available, such as resume workshops, mock interviews, and job placement assistance.
- What are some of the program's strengths and weaknesses? Encourage the graduate to provide a balanced assessment, acknowledging both the program's positive attributes and areas for improvement.
- Would you recommend this program to others? Why or why not? This direct question cuts to the chase and provides a clear indication of the graduate's overall satisfaction.
- How accessible and helpful were the instructors? This reveals how receptive the instructors were to helping graduates.
Interviewing Instructors: Evaluating Teaching Quality and Program Philosophy
Instructors can provide valuable insights into the curriculum, teaching methodologies, and program philosophy. They can also shed light on the program's goals and its commitment to student success.
- What is your teaching philosophy? This question explores the instructor's approach to teaching and learning. Look for a philosophy that aligns with your learning style and preferences.
- How do you ensure the curriculum is up-to-date and relevant to industry trends? This assesses the instructor's commitment to keeping the curriculum current and preparing students for the demands of the job market.
- What types of teaching methods do you use? Different instructors use different teaching methods, such as lectures, group projects, case studies, and simulations.
- How do you support students who are struggling with the material? This question explores the instructor's willingness to provide extra help and support to students who need it.
- What are the learning outcomes for this program? This question can help you understand the instructor's intentions for the program.
- What are the prerequisites for succeeding in this program? This can help you understand if you need to take some additional preparatory courses.
Questions to Ask Schools About Accreditation and Outcomes
Beyond interviewing individuals, it's important to gather information directly from the school or training program itself.
- Is the program accredited? If so, by whom? Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain quality standards. Verify the accrediting agency's reputation and legitimacy through the U.S. Department of Education's website above.
- What is the program's graduation rate? This indicates the percentage of students who successfully complete the program.
- What is the job placement rate for graduates? This provides an indication of the program's effectiveness in preparing students for employment.
- What is the average salary for graduates in related fields? While salary data can vary, it offers a general sense of the earning potential for graduates.
- What resources are available to support students with disabilities? Verify the program's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
- What are the school's policies on diversity and inclusion? Verify the school's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Evaluating Program Culture and Environment
The overall culture and environment of a school or training program can significantly impact your learning experience. Consider asking graduates and instructors about the following:
- What is the student-to-instructor ratio? A lower ratio can provide more individualized attention and support.
- How would you describe the program's culture? Look for a culture that is supportive, collaborative, and challenging.
- Are there opportunities for networking and collaboration with other students? Networking can be valuable for building relationships and expanding your professional network.
- Does the program offer any extracurricular activities or student organizations? These activities can enhance your learning experience and provide opportunities for personal growth.
- Are there any mentorship opportunities or career counseling? These can provide support for developing your career.
Making an Informed Decision
Gathering information from graduates, instructors, and the school itself is essential for making an informed decision about your education. By asking the right questions and carefully evaluating the responses, you can choose a program that aligns with your goals and sets you up for success.