Hamilton Heights middle schoolers master the art of the interview

Hamilton Heights Middle School (HHMS) students recently participated in a mock interview experience designed to equip them with essential career-ready skills.

Representatives from a handful of area businesses provided over 210 eighth graders with a valuable opportunity to practice interview techniques in a real-world setting, helping them to build confidence and gain practical knowledge they can apply for their future careers while instilling a sense of responsibility and ambition, setting a strong foundation for their future academic and career endeavors.

“The interviews were conducted by nine area business professionals from various industries, offering students valuable feedback and insights into professional communication, resumes, and job preparedness,” said Connor James, CTE Business and Preparing for College and Careers Teacher and Reaching New Heights contact at HHMS. “Ninety-eight percent of the eighth graders who completed the interview said this experience strengthened their confidence and helped them feel more prepared for their next interview.”

This experience underscores the importance of early career education and its impact on students’ personal and professional growth. Special thanks to Arrow McLaren Indy Car Team (Matt Rhinesmith), Hagerman (Kevin Hammonds, Sarah Walker), Hamilton Heights Youth Assistance (Mary Ann Haymaker), Ryan Fire Protection (Brittany Knight, Itzlenny Rodriguez), and Will Power Excavation & Bulldozing (Matt Mitchell, Will Schuler, Mitchell Winningham).