Actual job interviews can bring on the jitters so mock interviews are a way to prepare.
At least Hilliard Middle-Senior High School junior Cameron Driggers thinks so.
“It gives me good practice for later on – one of those times that we get real world experience in the classroom,” he said Friday morning.
Dressed in a dark suit with a resume in hand, Driggers prepared for his first go-round with an interviewer from an area business. He and approximately 130 other students were scheduled to undergo interviews as part of an annual school project.
At least 30 business representatives from civil, military and public/private entities in Nassau, Duval and surrounding counties interviewed Communities in Schools Nassau County high school students. Teacher Bettina Conner’s gifted students served breakfast, assisted sign-ins and welcomed guests.
Driggers would like to become either a film director or actor, but understanding the competitive nature of acting, he is also considering a career in either engineering or architecture.
In preparation, he takes drafting classes three times a week at the Lewis “Red” Bean Nassau Technical Center in Yulee. To move toward his acting goal, he volunteers with the Amelia Community Theatre.
Meanwhile, sophomore Madison Puckett just turned 16. She would like to pursue a career in aviation, but would also enjoy working as soon as possible.
“I haven’t really figured it out yet,” Puckett said. “But what I’d really like to do is air traffic control.”
Callahan’s Badcock Home Furniture and More storeowner Matt Outler has worked in the industry since 1979. He interviewed Maci Potts, who plans to study physical therapy in college.
This was Outler’s first visit as a business representative for the event.
“It’s interesting,” he said. “I’m encouraged that the school puts the effort into preparing the students for the interview process, job preparation and for life. That’s just very encouraging for me. They need their education and they need some life skills too.”
CIS Program Director Dr. Bernita Dinwiddie and Career Coach Hilda Loyd have coached the students for several weeks.
“This is a really, really great experience for the students and the businesses,” Dinwiddie said. “We appreciate the businesses that help with this. For the kids it’s an invaluable experience in preparing them for their future.”
Charles Tipton shook hands with Lisa Tyson following her interview. The freshman plans to study nursing in college. Tipton is senior admission representative for the Jacksonville-based CDA Technical Institute. He has worked in the industry for a decade, assisting students with their post-secondary education plans.
“I’ve really enjoyed being here today,” Tipton said. “It’s a great opportunity to listen to the students and hear their values, dreams and aspirations.”