Students in the Monticello High School’s Academy of Finance recently strengthened their career readiness and professional skills through a series of mock interview workshops and the chapter’s annual senior dinner.
At the first Mock Interview Workshop, students focused on preparing for professional interviews by discussing appropriate interview attire, common mistakes to avoid and strategies for answering challenging interview questions. Students also watched instructional videos highlighting interview preparation techniques and participated in team-based activities focused on planning for the day of an interview, including how to prepare the night before.
The second workshop emphasized research and communication skills. Students were divided into teams and tasked with researching major companies after selecting either Amazon or Google from a drawing. Teams explored each company’s mission statement, annual report, income statement, yearly profit and current stock market value.
Students then participated in mock interviews by taking turns serving as interviewers and candidates. Interviewers used prepared question sheets while students practiced responding to questions in a professional setting.
In addition to the workshops, the chapter also hosted its annual senior dinner at The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark. The event brought together graduating seniors, their families, board of advisors members and administrators to celebrate student accomplishments.
During the evening, students and advisors discussed the chapter’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program results, heard from alumni who returned to speak with current students and listened to seniors present their culminating “Me at 25” projects, reflecting on their future goals and aspirations.