Interviews Prepare Dunckel Students for Work World

Taleigha Hunter walked into the Dunckel Middle School media center in Farmington Hills last week prepared to interview for her first job. 

The exercise, which paired 8th graders with adult volunteers who played the part of employers hiring a customer service representative, is part of a unit on careers. Taleigha said the interview was a little difficult at first, "but it got easier". 

"I was surprised the interviewers were mainly trying to get to know you," she said. 

Farmington Public Schools career development technician Lita Hoyer said teachers guide the students through creating a resume, help them practice for the interviews and write thank you letters afterward. She said 35 volunteers worked with about 360 students June 5 and 6. 

"I love it," she said. "When I look around, I see the faces, and everybody's engaged. It's a great experience for both (students and interviewers)." 

Taleigha said she felt the exercise will make her more comfortable when she goes to interview for a real job. Interviewers gave all students feedback, so she knows what she has to work on before that happens.

"Eye contact, definitely," she said.