Practice Interview Program

Information for:

Students

Interviewers

Faculty

Interviewer Registration Form  

Fall 2007 Practice Interview Program (PIP) Summary

Practice Interview Program (PIP) offers students the opportunity to develop and practice interviewing skills essential for success in our competitive job market. Perhaps more important, students also "test drive" career goals and reflect more deeply on the connections between their liberal arts education and their life goals. Many students are surprised to learn that interviewers seek candidates who are passionate about the career and vocation and who can articulate connections between education and future plans. This program is a collaboration between the Career Development Center, faculty and alumni, parent and employer volunteers. Practice Interview Program is supported by the Theological Exploration of Vocation Program (TEVP).

Based on student evaluations, PIP is having a significant impact on improving students' interview skills, their sense of career and vocation, and appreciation of the skills they are developing in their major. Students are also gaining confidence in interviewing and are able to better articulate how their liberal arts education and skills will serve them in their chosen professional setting.

The Practice Interview Program takes place twice a year during Fall and Spring terms. Students sign up for a one hour practice interview slot and submit a resume and job description (or grad school description). During the practice interview session, alumni, employer, and staff volunteers lead students through typical screening interviews and provide feedback on each student’s performance.  The one hour format also allows time for the Interviewer to provide resume feedback.  

Who can volunteer to interview

Any Hamline alum, employer, parent or community member with career expertise and knowledge/experience in interviewing can volunteer.  Human resource experience is NOT required.  Given the wide range of interests of Hamline students, we seek volunteers with all types of backgrounds including the arts, the sciences, law enforcement, corporate management, public service and nearly everything else!  Typically, interviewers volunteer for 3 or 6 hour shifts.  Interviews are scheduled hourly from 9:00-12:00 and 1:00-4:00.

For questions about the Practice Interview Program, please contact the Career Development Center.