Mock Interview with T&K

        On the last Monday of my student teaching internship, I participated in a mock interview with Pequea Valley's principals, Mr. Trovato and Mrs. Koberstein. I have really enjoyed getting to know and learn from both of them this past semester. I am very thankful that they took the time to meet with me and coach me through the interviewing process. 

       What Did They Ask Me?

        Mr. Trovato and Mrs. Koberstein asked me a variety of questions. They first started out as most interviews do: tell us about yourself. I feel like I typically struggle with this question; I do not want to share too much, but I also want to make sure that I share enough. They also asked me why I wanted to be an educator. I really enjoyed that question because I got to share a little bit about my background and the influential teachers that I have had in my life. Another question that I enjoyed was being asked about my student teaching experience. Of course, they know the school better than me, but it was really fun to be able to reflect about my experience with someone immediately after I handed back my last class. 

       How Did I Feel?

        I honestly felt like the "interview" went very well. I felt prepared to answer almost all of their questions. The question I struggled with the most was when Mr. Trovato asked me about areas that I could grow. I can't remember the exact question that he asked, but he mentioned that some first year teachers struggle learning the ropes and often need help. I interpreted this as "What educational areas could you use help to continue your growth to be a better educator?" I thought this was a really good question- one that I really hadn't put too much thought into until then. I had mentioned that finding resources, having a mentor, and developing a good home/worklife balance would be the three areas that I would need the most help. I also struggled with their question regarding student discipline as I have not run into many disciplinary problems during my student teaching internship. When I answered this question, I had to think about how I would address that issue rather than how I did address an issue.

       What Did I Ask?

        I did not a lot of questions as we were more focused on my responses to their questions. I did ask about how admin helps new teachers. They were very helpful and told me that they have a mentorship program for first year teachers that they encourage everyone to take part in. I also asked about the support that the ag program receives. 
        Though I did not ask this type question, Mr. Trovato and Mrs. Koberstein coached and encouraged me to ask a question specific to the school that I am applying for. That type of question totally slipped my mind; when I am really interviewing for a job, I will have to remember to look into the school's specifics and ask those questions about the school and its community.

       What Impressed Me?

        I really enjoyed the way that the interview was conducted. It felt professional and personal all at the same time. Mr. Trovato and Mrs. Koberstein were able to give me good feedback, as well as areas for growth. I also appreciated their emphasis on the importance of the career path that I am stepping into; they really appreciate their teachers- especially their agriculture teachers. 

       What Didn't Impressed Me?

        I wouldn't really say that there was anything that did not impress me. I received very good feedback and was treated like a real candidate for a real position.

        Areas for Growth

        After taking part in this mock interview and hearing quality feedback from Mr. Trovato and Mrs. Koberstein, I feel much more confident to apply for a "real" teaching job. I knew that some of my responses were a little shaky- especially my answer to a question regarding student discipline. During my time student teaching, I have had little disciplinary problems with students in my classes. I worry that I will struggle with discipline as a first-year teacher. As I expressed that worry to Mr. Trovato and Mrs. Koberstein, they assured me that admin will back me up, and to probably not include that in an interview. If a question arises about discipline and I do not have a personal example, answer how I plan to act on the matter.

Overall, I had a really great experience with Mr. Trovato and Mrs. Koberstein. I feel more prepared to enter the workforce and take part in real interviews in the future and am thankful for their time and advice. 

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