Mock Interviews: Preparing Students for Real-World Success

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What happens when high school students face their first real job interview without ever having practiced? For thousands of young people, walking into that first interview means stumbling through an experience they've never been prepared for. That's the problem Mark is solving through his remarkably successful mock interview program.

During this eye-opening conversation, Mark shares how a Rotary concept he encountered 35 years ago evolved into a comprehensive program that's changed countless young lives. "Every high school student should really have an opportunity to learn how to interview for a job," he explains, detailing the carefully structured two-hour workshops where students rotate through four different interviewers. Each eight-minute interview is followed by written and oral evaluations that provide immediate, actionable feedback.

What makes this program truly stand out is its real-world impact. Employers have called Mark specifically to learn his secrets after interviewing his students: "That student was the only one who came in dressed professionally, with a confident handshake and strong eye contact." Even more impressive, some students have received job offers directly from impressed workshop participants.

The genius of Mark's approach lies in how thoroughly it's integrated into the curriculum. These aren't casual role-playing exercises—they're graded activities with the weight of final exams. Students learn everything from proper introduction techniques (first name, pause, last name) to maintaining "calm hands, calm feet" during the interview. They receive feedback on their resumes, portfolios, and even the thank-you notes they're required to write afterward.

For Rotarians and educators looking to implement similar programs, Mark offers a complete roadmap, including timelines, recruitment emails, evaluation forms, and practical guidance. His advice? "Start small. Start with one group, see how it works, then expand." The program's remarkable adoption rate speaks to its value—teachers eagerly share it with colleagues because they immediately recognize its life-changing potential.

Ready to help prepare the next generation for career success? Subscribe to Community Heroes of Hope for more inspiring stories of Rotarians making a difference, and consider bringing mock interviews to a school in your community.

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