As students prepare for their futures, one of the skills that they need to master is the interview. The interview can open the door to new opportunities whether for a summer job, college admission, scholarships or future career. Forty-eight twelfth graders in Mrs. Jeanette DiBernardo’s Senior Seminar class had the chance to participate in an Interviewing and Soft Skills Clinic with Mr. Tim McDonough, Vice President of Global Brand Marketing at Moen, and Ms. Danielle Hart, Human Resources at Moen, before each having a 10-15 minute interview with one of 10 local Human Resource professionals. Advice offered in the clinic included creating and showcasing your Personal Brand by:
- Preparing (research the company and interviewer)
- Mastering the first impression (firm handshake, direct look in the eyes)
- Dressing the part
- Preparing your 30 second elevator speech
- Giving examples
- Displaying your unique personality
- Being prepared to ask questions
- Being memorable
- Following up immediately (personal notes make an impact)
For many of the students, this was their first opportunity to have a formal interview. Grace Cannon said, “It was not as intimidating as I was expecting. By smiling and being genuine, I felt successful and appreciated the feedback that was shared with me. A good tip was the importance of following up with a personal note, not just an email to stand out from others.” While daunting at first, it was a great introduction to a skill that all students need in the future. Kenston recognizes the importance of Soft Skills and College and Career Readiness as we work to incorporate more career connections in the school day.
Mark Your Calendar
Do you need some Holiday cheer this season? The Kenston Instrumental and Vocal Music Department can put you in the mood. Concerts begin with Kenston Middle School 7th/8th Grade Band Concert on Thursday, December 7th and 7th/8th Grade Choir Concert on Monday, December 11th, 6th Grade Band on Thursday, December 14th. All the middle school concerts will be held at 7:00 p.m. in the Kenston High School, Robert A. Lee Auditorium.
The annual Kenston High School’s Holiday Concert featuring the high school Choir, Band and Varsity Jazz will take place on Sunday, December 17th at 2:30 p.m. in the high school, auditorium. The concerts are produced under the direction of Mrs. Julia Green, Mr. Jeff Link and Mr. Scott Sell.
Pictured In Cover Photo: Tim McDonough and Alyssa Castilo.
