At Mater Dei High School, 12th-grade students are required to complete mock interviews as part of their English grade. These interviews place students in front of real community volunteers who ask common job and college-style questions. The purpose is to prepare students for life after high school by building confidence and professional skills.

These mock interviews give students a realistic experience similar to actual job interviews. Through this experience, seniors learn what it feels like to speak with adults they do not directly know in a formal setting, reducing anxiety for future interviews in college, internships, or careers. 

Students practice answering questions clearly and confidently. Volunteers often ask about strengths, weaknesses, goals, and past experiences, helping students learn to speak about themselves in a mature, prepared way. Senior Stella Pham shares her experience.

“They asked me about different parts [that might be in an] actual job interview,” Pham said. “‘Why are you interested in this industry?’ They also asked me about my professional skills or habits, and asked about how I define professionalism.”

When talking with Senior Natalie Nichols, she expressed her support for senior interviews, sharing how they have a lasting impact on later job opportunities.

“They asked me questions about myself and what I want to do with my future,” Nichols said. “I felt like these questions prepared me for a realistic interview for when I’m older.”

Leading up to the interview, students are asked to dress professionally and come prepared with a résumé, just as they would in the workplace. Dressing professionally teaches the importance of first impressions and workplace expectations.

After the interview, students are given the opportunity to receive constructive feedback on how to improve in the future. Volunteers can offer feedback on students’ performance, providing insight into what they did well and where they can improve. This allows them to grow before facing real high-stakes, high-pressure interviews. 

When asked whether she would recommend that students in general practice interviewing, Pham expressed her support.

“This is a very good way [to learn], because the more you practice, the more you get used to it and the less nervous you get when going to an actual interview,” Pham said.

Overall, mock interviews benefit seniors by preparing them for the next stage of life. They promote professionalism, confidence, and career readiness. By requiring this experience, Mater Dei helps students transition successfully from high school into adulthood.