Interview stress a lesson for one local student

Caitlin Grayson– Mustangs Ahead

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – Interviews are always nerve racking, especially when it’s for a scholarship. Wednesday Mar. 1, I had my mock interview at Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) in order to prepare me for my actual interview, which was Saturday Mar. 4.

The Golden Herald Awards program originated in 1978 to honor outstanding Manatee County high school seniors for noble service to their schools and community.

Walking into my mock interview, I was a nervous wreck. I had read over my application multiple times the night before as well as during first and third periods before my interview. I knew that the mock interview was only a practice run, but I wanted to leave a good impression. I was also in the mindset of wanting to get ahead of the other girl in my category (just goes to show how competitive I am).

It was my turn and I was taken back into my respective practice room. I walked in and there were three women, one of which I recognized as LRHS college and career counselor Michelle Todoroff, someone I could be somewhat comfortable around.

I was still nervous, but as I have always been told, I put on a smile and somewhat swallowed my fear. I introduced myself and began talking about my experiences through my vast amount of community service work. The three “judges” began asking me questions that were pretty easy to ask until Mrs. Todoroff asked me “why should you be chosen as the winner for this category?” Immediately I lost my train of thought. I became more nervous and anxious than I already was. I began to stumble over my words and repeat myself.

They stopped me and gave me pointers as to what I should do in case this question was asked during my interview. My fifteen minutes was up, I thanked my “judges” and left, I was a complete mess, I was discouraged and ultimately thought the other girl in my category here at LRHS would win.

Saturday Mar. 4 came faster than I thought and I was still very nervous, but I felt a bit more prepared than Wednesday. I got to the Golden Herald office and went to check in. I was immediately greeted by warm, comforting people who told me what I would be doing next. I was wished good luck and sent up stairs to the second floor to get my picture taken.

I got my picture taken, was wished luck for the second time and was sent to the next room to wait for my interview time. I waited for about five minutes and was then sent back downstairs to the first floor to wait again.

I waited for about another two minutes and I finally heard my name called. I stood up and began to follow the usher. She wished me well-deserved luck and there I was in front of three strangers, two women and a man…my judges.

Right away they all stood up, introduced themselves and shook my hand. I smiled, shook their hands and sat down. All three judges were very warm and welcoming, which calmed my racing heart way down.

As soon as I sat down and took a deep breath, trying not to show my nerves, they began to ask me questions such as “what would you do to improve the community around us?” “What are some of the experiences and lessons you learned while at your biggest community service project?” and “why do you think people don’t get out into the community more?” I answered with no problem and was personal with my answers.
Then came the question…”Why should we choose you?”

I took a deep breath and answered as if I had been asked to write my name. They were surprised by how easily I answered this question. They talked about my achievements and more personal experiences and before I knew it, my interview was over. I stood up, shook all three judges’ hands, and thanked them.

My hopes were lifted and I felt like a million bucks when I walked out of my interview. I was done. Now I wait for the results at the awards ceremony on April 6.