It also doesn’t hurt to have a bit of practice – and that’s what students from Catholic College Wodonga benefited from last week.

Year nine students participated in mock job interviews with representatives from several Border businesses and community groups.

They got feedback about their resumes, cover letters and interviewing skills, all in the hope it will help them as many look to obtain their first jobs.

CCW careers adviser Sandie McKoy said it was a crucial chance for students to learn more about the interview process.

“It’s really important for these students at this time because many of them are looking for employment opportunities now,” she said.

“Some students already have work, but we’ve found a lot of that has come through people they already know, they haven’t had any experience with the interview process.

“This also assists them with interviews for things like scholarships and university applications.” 

The mock interviews are a part of the ‘World of Work’ unit.

The unit also covers resume and cover letter writing, as well as getting students to undertake regular volunteer work through the school’s ‘Right Journey’ program.

The volunteering, which includes work for organisations like Carevan, among others, helps students fill out their resumes where they may not have work experience.

“The interviews provided the opportunity for students to engage with local business leaders and prepare for their first job,” Ms McKoy said.

“They also enabled the College to continue to nurture our strong partnerships with local industry and employment services.

“When the kids write their resumes they’re able to put a lot of that volunteer work in.

“The year nines also have their own cafe now as well, which helps them with skills like cash handling and customer service.

“We got some really string feedback and a lot of employers said they would definitely have employed some students from that day.” 

One such employer was CVM Truck and Bus CEO John Herring, who was impressed by the interviewees.

“I was very impressed with the way my candidates handled themselves for their first interview,” he said.

“They did express that they were nervous but still managed to do an amazing job.

“Seeing how these students handled themselves today gives me faith in the process undertaken at the school to see them so confident at their age.

“I have interviewed a lot of people and would say these students would have stood up well against some seasoned applicants.”