Interview Clinic Helps UVic Students Get It Right

If practice makes perfect, then students at the University of Victoria’s Gustavson School of Business will soon be on their way to mastering the job interview. From January 24 to 26, more than 250 second- and third-year Bachelor of Commerce co-op students will take part in 520 practice interviews when 60 employers come to campus for an annual interview clinic.
       During the marathon session, organized by UVic’s Co-operative Education Program and Career Services, each student will participate in mock interviews with two different employers. They will provide feedback on the students’ interview performance, résumés and cover letters. This hands-on approach will help students fine-tune their skills before interviewing for real positions through the business school’s required co-op program.
       Employers from 46 local organizations will volunteer during the three-day clinic, including BC Ferries, the City of Victoria, Dockside Gifts, Freedom55, HP Advanced Solutions, KPMG, Neverblue, Royal Bank and the Times Colonist. Through this event, employers gain insight into students’ skills and provide feedback to the co-op program.
       Mock interviews are one of several preparatory exercises that UVic co-op students complete before applying for their first co-op work terms. Other exercises include learning about competency development and assessment, how to navigate career decisions, and how to develop job search strategies.
       UVic’s Co-operative Education Program and Career Services offers similar support to both co-op and non-co-op students.

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Members of the media interested in speaking to students or employers about their experiences are welcome to contact Co-op and Career Services Communications Officer Joy Poliquin at 250-721-6084 or poliquin@uvic.ca to coordinate an interview time.