Navigating the Professional Jungle: Vinton County High School's Mock Interview Program

Jeremy Ward, BB2C Network Director

This past December, Vinton County High School seniors took part in mock interviews in collaboration with VC WORKS and BB2C. With an interesting twist, the interview panels consisted of actual hiring personnel from some of the county's largest employers- Austin Powder, Hopewell Health Centers, The University of Rio Grande, and Vinton County National Bank. The mission? Beyond textbooks, it aimed to equip students with real-world skills, providing a glimpse into life after graduation.

For Vinton County High seniors, this wasn't your run-of-the-mill interview prep. According to one student, "It helped me get ready for real-life interviews." The program isn't just about questions; it's a preparation for the unglamorous reality of the professional world.

Another student gained insights into formality, stating, "It helped me learn from an employer or hiring manager’s perspective what they value in an employee " No more guesswork – the initiative demystifies formalities, ensuring students are well-prepared for the real deal.

But it's not just about mastering technicalities; it's about building confidence. As one participant shared, "It made me realize that I should just be calm about any interview that I have." Stressful situations? No problem. The mock interviews aim to transform jitters into calm confidence.

The remarkable part? It's not just lip service; students genuinely mean it. The program's questions are no joke, consistently earning nods for their relevance and insightfulness. Moreover, it's a two-way street – students receive clear post-interview feedback, demonstrating a commitment to their growth.

The ultimate win? Many students are already landing jobs, and applying their skills in the real world. The mock interview program isn't just a stepping stone; it's a launchpad for careers.

The takeaway? Vinton County High School isn't merely preparing students for job interviews; they're shaping them to thrive in the professional jungle. Kudos to Austin Powder, Hopewell Health, Rio Grande, and Vinton County National Bank for making this possible. A special shoutout to Dr. Fout and Mrs. Sowers at the high school for partnering with VC Works on this remarkable venture. It's more than an initiative; it's a win-win collaboration sculpting a group of young professionals ready to leave their mark. Cheers to brighter futures and hands-on learning!