By Eric Guzman '12
Whether they're trying to hone their skills for the job hunt or practicing to impress an internship supervisor, the more than 30 Siena students who participated in the Career Center’s Speed Interviewing night gained valuable experience. They were interviewed by a variety of Capital Region employers who helped them learn about and experience different interview styles.
“How I see it, the more you practice, the better you will get,” said Siena College VISTA Fellow, Kevin Sullivan. “This is a risk-free environment and really helps the students.” Students were given the chance to participate in four different interviews. They included on-one-one, panel (two-on-one), group process and a phone interview. Each session lasted about 20 minutes.
“This is such a valuable experience,” said Career Center Associate Director Suzanne O’Connor. “Having the chance to be exposed to four different interview styles in one night is very efficient.”
“I did this event last year as a student and was very nervous,” said Kevin Murphy ’11, who was on hand representing the Capital Region Human Resources Association. “I’m excited to be sitting on the other side of the table and having the ability to give students helpful feedback.”
The event proved especially important for members of the senior class who are preparing to enter the job market in just a few months. “The interview process is quickly approaching,” said senior Jessica Brennan ’12. “I’m a little nervous, but this is the place to make mistakes and get the feedback to help us improve.”
The majority of the event’s participants were juniors and seniors, but one sophomore took the initiative to improve her interviewing skills. “I thought it would be a good opportunity and I went through my resume and researched all the employers that were going to be here,” said Pamela Townsend ’13. “I was nervous, but my interviews went so well. I’m glad I was prepared and able to participate.”
Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Employee Megan Grabowski said, “Interviewing is just as important for the student as it is for the employer. Yes, employers need to know about prospective employees, but employees need to know the mission, vision and values of the company they could be working for as well. Siena wants what is best for their students and so do we as employers. I recommend students take advantage of opportunities like these when they come.”
O’Connor explained that it is never too early to begin practicing for the future. The Career Center sponsors numerous skill-building and networking events throughout the school year.
Photo Credit: Michael Valiquette '14
