In recent weeks, students at the Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center (GACTC) have been practicing job interviewing and resume skills. Only seniors can participate in this activity.
Senior Eli Rosenberry takes part in the graphic design program at GACTC. He travels to the GACTC in the afternoon, after his morning classes. Rosenberry spent time practicing prior to his interviews.
“We prepare our resumes and practice for common interview questions,” Rosenberry said. “The GACTC then invites a bunch of local industry professionals.”
Rosenberry feels this opportunity is excellent for anyone interested in furthering their field of study.
“You get at least three interviews,” Rosenberry said. “For some people, including myself, it was a chance to maybe get an actual job with a local business.”
He was presented with several chances to further his education and work in a graphic design environment.
“For example, one person I interviewed with said he was looking for a summer intern, and I am definitely looking forward to that opportunity,” Rosenberry said.
Senior Nicholas Erb also participated in these interviews. At the GACTC, Erb takes part in the HVAC (Heating, ventilation and air conditioning) program in the mornings.
“I enjoyed my time doing the interviews,” Erb said. “We have a really good HVAC program over at the GACTC, and I appreciated the opportunities it gave me with these job interviews.”
Erb’s most memorable interview was with Rabenstein Heating Air Conditioning & Plumbing Inc. He had the opportunity to meet with several other local businesses.
“I interviewed with Link Associates, Rabenstein and a few other companies,” Erb said. “They were very nice interviewers, and I was able to explore local opportunities.”
Senior Isabelle Wolfard takes part in the cosmetology program at GACTC in the mornings.
“When we got paired with an interviewer, we made sure to give them a nice handshake,” Wolfard said. “Then we sat down and answered their questions. We were able to experience questions that relate to our careers, either prepared by our teacher or the interviewer.”
Wolfard feels the interviews and the preparation leading up to them was beneficial for her future career.
“It definitely helped me to better understand what a real interview is like,” Wolfard said. “I have only had one job interview before, so I didn’t really know what to expect. My teacher did a really nice job at preparing us for what to expect. I definitely think that the questions asked helped me prepare for my future career.”
