What is a collection of samples that showcases a candidate's interests and talents called?

A portfolio is a curated collection of a candidate's work that highlights their skills, interests, and talents. This collection can include various types of samples such as photographs, design projects, writing samples, or even video presentations, depending on the field. The primary purpose of a portfolio is to demonstrate the candidate’s abilities and creative thought processes to potential employers or clients, providing tangible evidence of what they can accomplish.

In contrast, a résumé is a summary of work experience and education, while a job application typically requires filling out specific information about one’s background and qualifications without the illustrative examples a portfolio provides. A work sample may refer to a specific piece of work or task completed, but it does not encompass the broader range of work showcased in a complete portfolio. Therefore, a portfolio serves as a comprehensive representation of a candidate's skills, making it the correct answer in this context.