Star India Academic Counsellor Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation

What the job involves

An Academic Counsellor in edtech, media, and entertainment guides prospective students through course selection, admissions, and career pathways, often for creative programs like film, animation, or journalism. Daily tasks include lead follow-ups, one-on-one counselling sessions, webinars, and coordinating with faculty and marketing teams to meet enrolment targets. In a media company like Star India, you might advise on vocational training or industry-aligned certifications.

Role and Industry Knowledge

1. 1

   What do you understand about the day-to-day responsibilities of an Academic Counsellor in an edtech-media company?

   Mention lead follow-ups, counselling sessions, course guidance, and coordination with marketing and faculty. Show awareness of enrolment targets and student support.

2. 2

   How would you explain the difference between a traditional academic counsellor and one working for a media and entertainment edtech platform?

   Highlight the focus on creative and vocational courses, industry connections, portfolio building, and placement support in media fields like film, animation, or broadcast.

3. 3

   What are some current trends in media and entertainment education that you would need to know to counsel students effectively?

   Talk about online certifications, short-term skill courses, OTT content growth, regional language content, and demand for digital marketing and VFX skills.

4. 4

   Why do you want to work as an Academic Counsellor in the edtech, media, and entertainment sector specifically?

   Connect your interest in education and media, mention the impact of guiding creative careers, and show enthusiasm for a fast-paced, target-driven environment.

Practical Scenarios and Sales Skills

1. 5

   A student is interested in a filmmaking course but says it is too expensive. How would you handle this objection?

   Acknowledge the concern, highlight ROI through placements and portfolio, offer EMI or scholarship options, and share alumni success stories.

2. 6

   How would you counsel a student who is confused between a short-term certificate in digital marketing and a full-time diploma in journalism?

   Ask about their career goals, time commitment, and budget. Compare course outcomes, duration, and industry demand, then recommend based on fit.

3. 7

   You have 50 leads to follow up in a day, but only 20 have answered calls. How do you prioritise and stay organised?

   Use a CRM to tag hot, warm, and cold leads. Prioritise based on engagement, schedule follow-ups, and use WhatsApp or email for non-responders.

4. 8

   A parent is skeptical about their child pursuing a career in animation. How would you address their concerns?

   Show industry demand, job roles, salary ranges, and placement records. Offer to connect them with faculty or alumni, and emphasise skill-based learning.

Behavioural and Situational Questions

1. 9

   Describe a time when you had to convince someone to see things your way. How did you do it?

   Use the STAR method. Focus on listening, finding common ground, presenting benefits, and achieving a positive outcome.

2. 10

   Tell me about a situation where you faced a lot of rejection or failure. How did you cope and what did you learn?

   Show resilience, self-reflection, and a proactive approach to improving. Relate it to handling rejections in a counselling or sales role.

3. 11

   How would you handle a student who is very interested but keeps postponing the enrolment decision?

   Identify the real hesitation, set a clear next step, create urgency with deadlines or limited seats, and maintain regular follow-ups without being pushy.

4. 12

   Give an example of how you worked in a team to achieve a common goal. What was your role?

   Highlight collaboration, communication, and your specific contribution. Show that you can work with marketing, faculty, and other counsellors.

HR and Motivation

1. 13

   What are your short-term and long-term career goals as an Academic Counsellor?

   Short-term: meet targets, learn courses, and improve counselling skills. Long-term: move into team lead, training, or student success management.

2. 14

   How do you handle pressure and meet targets in a competitive edtech environment?

   Mention time management, prioritisation, positive attitude, and using data to track progress. Give an example of handling pressure in college or internships.

3. 15

   Why should we hire you for this role over other candidates?

   Summarise your communication skills, empathy, sales aptitude, and knowledge of media courses. Show enthusiasm and alignment with the company's mission.

4. 16

   What do you know about our company and why do you want to join us?

   Research the company's edtech initiatives, media partnerships, or course offerings. Mention specific programs or values that excite you.