Consumer Career Explorations is a class available for sophomores and freshmen to take in order to get an understanding of what the job force is like. Ms. Crystal Pugh, business education teacher, conducted mock interviews for her consumer career classes in order to prepare them for their future in the interviewing world.
The position the students were applying for was to be a waiter/waitress. The interviews took place in the auditorium during sixth and eighth period January 5.
Five of the seven interviewers came from McCann. They were Ms. Lori Kane, Mr. Shawn Brennan, Ms. Amelia Hopkins, Ms. Michelle Scribbick and Ms. Marissa Geiger. The other two interviewers were Mrs. Michelle McGinty school counselor, and her intern Ms. Amber Phillips.
Interviewers asked ordinary questions like, “Where do you see yourself in five years?” and “What are your weaknesses and strengths?” Students were graded on their performance during their interview as well. Prior to the interviews, Ms. Pugh gave students tips on how to respond to certain questions and proper interview etiquette in order to get the best score possible.
“Be confident, practice your responses, do some research and find out what the company is about and do your work values match,” Ms. Pugh said.
Another tip is to sustain eye contact, as it is a sign of confidence, trust and active listening, according to Ms. Kane, from of the Community Relations department at McCann.
The purpose for the mock interview was to prepare students for the real deal, and many thought the interviews were helpful and effective.
“I had no idea what I should do before I took this class. The mock interviews helped a lot and prepared me for what it would be like when I apply for a real job,” freshman Molly Lubinsky said.