FrameworkGraduate Resources15 min

Interview Preparation Framework

A systematic way to map your raw skills and past experiences to interview questions.

Most people prepare for interviews by trying to memorize answers to 100 possible questions. This framework takes a better approach: it helps you document 4 core professional stories using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) so you can adapt them to any behavioral question.

1
A time I failed and recovered

Write your story using S.T.A.R. (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Focus heavily on the Action (what YOU actually did, not what "we" did) and the Result (the measurable outcome).

2
A time I solved a complex problem

Write your story using S.T.A.R. (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Focus heavily on the Action (what YOU actually did, not what "we" did) and the Result (the measurable outcome).

3
A time I handled conflict with a peer

Write your story using S.T.A.R. (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Focus heavily on the Action (what YOU actually did, not what "we" did) and the Result (the measurable outcome).

4
A time I took initiative without being asked

Write your story using S.T.A.R. (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Focus heavily on the Action (what YOU actually did, not what "we" did) and the Result (the measurable outcome).

Related Resources

Guide

Graduate Career Transition Guide

A practical guide for graduates navigating the transition from education to the professional world.

Worksheet

Student Skills Discovery Worksheet

Help students identify skills they already demonstrate and skills they want to develop.