Over the last few weeks, our brave LEAPsters have been attending mock interviews with the Vision Australia leadership team.
A nerve-wracking experience for anyone, these teenagers attended zoom interviews with not one, but two interviewers, during their school holidays. The interviews were recorded, and participants received written and verbal feedback about their performance.
Vision Australia CEO Ron Hooton, said the interviews were impressive.
“Just a few months ago, before LEAP, their skills were very limited,” he said.
“Today, every one of them aced the interview, and I would have employed them.”
One participant, Madison Alingcastre, 16, said the mock interviews proved very helpful.
“Through this experience, I learned what an interview might be like and some tips and tricks along the way,” she said.
Madison was interviewed for a fundraising and events management position at a gallery.
“The most valuable thing I gained from this experience is that all interviewers are different,” she said.
“However, all interviewers are looking for someone to do the job well.”
Madison gained rave reviews and impressed her interviewers.
The mock interviews were a culmination of months of work. Each participant identified a job description, created a resume and cover letter, and practiced their interview skills.
They also met with various professionals along the way, including individually with an employment consultant to discuss their strengths while structuring a resume.
Managing director of Winchester Search, Tim Smith, called in from Spain to teach our students about interview tips.
The LEAP Team would like to thank all involved in the mock interviews. For many participants, this was their first interview, and this experience was a giant step towards increasing their confidence and exploring employment opportunities.
Applications for LEAP 2023 are now open, and close November 1.
For more information on this Leadership and EmployAbility program please visit the LEAP website or contact the LEAP team at [email protected]