Students Learn "Dos" and "Don'ts" for Job Interviews

Where do you see yourself in five or ten years? What do you consider to be your greatest strengths and weaknesses? Hundreds of jittery sophomores filtered into the Hylton High School library to answer these and other questions during mock interviews conducted by more than sixty business professionals and dignitaries. Looking no less polished than the adults, the students were in their Sunday best. They would be graded on their answers and such small details as their greeting and handshake, eye contact, posture, and physical appearance.

The interviewers examined applications and resumes, and logged results and comments on a rating sheet to give both students and teachers valuable feedback. Taking brief breaks from student interviews to check email and voicemail were business leaders like Derrick Burton, Director of IT Operations at Booz Allen Hamilton; the Honorable John Jenkins, Neabsco District Supervisor; Becky Gamache, General Manager of Panera Bread; Janis Simmons, Employment Manager from Potomac Hospital; and Roger Custard with Defense Energy Support Center.

This Sophomore Interview Day was arranged by Angela Jenkins, Career Counselor at Hylton. The event is part of a curriculum unit on careers and provides a realistic employment atmosphere for the teenagers, many of whom have yet to experience the world of work and are apprehensive about doing so. According to Jenkins, “Real life situations, such as job interviewing, are critical to the development of our young people and will help them prepare for their post-secondary education and productive careers.”

Visit Hylton High School’s Web site.

Return to Top