Tell me about a time when you had to remain calm and composed under pressure. How did you handle the situation?

One time, while working as a cashier at a busy supermarket, there was a situation where a customer became very angry and started yelling at me because their coupon was expired. Despite the pressure and the angry customer, I remained calm and composed. I listened attentively to the customer's frustration and apologized for the inconvenience. I then carefully explained the store's policy regarding expired coupons and offered a solution by suggesting alternative ways the customer could save. I remained respectful and empathetic throughout the conversation, which helped deescalate the situation. The customer eventually calmed down and even thanked me for my help.

During my time as a Border Patrol Agent, I encountered a high-stress situation during a routine patrol. While patrolling a remote area, I received a distress call from a hiker who had gotten lost and injured. Despite the urgency and limited resources, I remained calm and focused on the task at hand. I ensured open and clear communication with the hiker to assess their condition and location accurately. Using my strong observational skills, I was able to identify familiar landmarks mentioned by the hiker and guide them on how to navigate back to safety. I coordinated with emergency services and guided them to the hiker's location. Throughout the ordeal, I maintained composure, provided reassurance to the hiker, and kept the situation under control until help arrived.

As a Border Patrol Agent, I faced a highly intense situation during a joint operation with local law enforcement. We received information about a potential drug smuggling operation in a remote forested area. Upon arrival, we encountered heavily armed smugglers who immediately opened fire. The chaos and danger of the situation called for quick thinking and calmness. I swiftly assessed the surroundings and coordinated with my team to establish a defensive position while maintaining communication with the local law enforcement for support. By utilizing my strong observational and analytical skills, I identified potential escape routes and vulnerabilities in the smugglers' tactics. With effective communication and strategic maneuvering, we were able to neutralize the threat and apprehend all the smugglers without any casualties. Despite the adrenaline rush, I remained composed and ensured the safety of my team throughout the operation.