A few of the many interviewers pictured with St Gerald’s School Counsellor Ms. Sharon Geraghty.
Castlebar Rotary Club organised a Mock Interview Event at St. Geralds College, Castlebar, for Leaving Certificate students on Wednesday, November 20th. The mock interviews provide the Leaving Cert students with a valuable opportunity to hone their interview skills, gain confidence and receive feedback in a very positive manner.
The event saw significant interest, with approximately 50 students signing up to participate. Students returned to the school in the evening and engaged enthusiastically in the interviews, which ran from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Interview judges arrived at 5:30 PM to prepare for the busy schedule of 50 interviews conducted by panels of three judges each.
Paul O’Grady presents Ms Sharon Geraghty with a bunch of flowers
Rotarian Paul O’Grady was, as always, instrumental in managing the event’s seamless execution on behalf of Rotary, while Sharon Geraghty, the school’s Guidance Counsellor, undertook the task of encouraging student participation, helping them prepare CVs / application forms, and creating a detailed student schedule for the interviews across 10 rooms. Their efforts, along with numerous behind-the-scenes tasks, ensured the event’s success.
The interviews were conducted by teams of Rotarians and their friends who volunteered their time on a snowy evening to support the students. Rotary extends a big thanks to all the guest interviewers, whose contributions were integral to the success of the night.
To maintain consistency, the questions were pre-set and standardised. However, many interviews exceeded their allotted time as judges enjoyed engaging with students and learning about their future aspirations. Each student received verbal and written feedback, as well as helpful tips on improving their interview techniques.
The judges were highly impressed by the students’ confidence and communication skills, particularly given that for many, this was their first interview experience. One Rotarian noted it was one of the best events they had participated in since joining Rotary. Many interviewers described the students as inspirational, with bright futures ahead.
St. Gerald’s College Principal, Shaun Burke, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the school to Rotarian Paul O’Grady, Rotary members and volunteers for generously giving their time to support the event. He highlighted the significant positive impact this experience will have on the students as they progress in their studies and careers.
The school kindly provided tea, coffee and sandwiches for the Rotary volunteers
.
Shane Bourke with President John Mulroy
Finally, the Rotary Club extends its heartfelt thanks to Prof. Paul O’Grady for once again pulling off another successful round of Mock Interviews. The club was also greatly relieved to hear that Paul managed to make it home safely in the snow—all ‘suited’ up and striding up Hawthorn Avenue in his brogues!
