Friday, January 25, 2008

Mock Interviews

In counselling group we had principals come in from the public and Catholic school boards and talk to us about what they look for in cover letters, resumes and interviews. I felt it extremely beneficial because they provided us with a variety of tips to help us prepare for the job searching that is upon us. It also assists future teachers to have an idea of what to expect and how to go about preparing for success. In addition to them talking to us and giving tips, we had a mock interview set up where we observed one of our classmates go through the interview process. The principals then made suggestions and complemented areas in which he was successful. The entire class then had their opportunities to answer questions on the spot in small group settings. This was very interesting because you learned very quickly how you would answer under pressure. We then went over those questions and how we could improve. Overall, I felt that todays counselling group session was extremely beneficial. Now it is time to get to my resume! :S

Social Issues Day

This day began with a talk about the Holocaust where we met a Holocaust survivor and he shared his story. I found the story to have more of an impact on me than anything else that occured that day. His words and descriptions of the way he was treated and how he was separated from his family at such a young age were extremely saddening. Since I did not take many history classes through my schooling I found that this speech opened my eyes to the true tragedy that occured during world war 2. I feel as though his story was beneficial for everyone sitting in that auditorium because it was touching and I think that each one of us will think of him when it comes time to teach about the Holocaust and war to students. The speaker also had photographs of his family and the concentration camps where he was held. This helped to deepen our understanding of the story and it made the impact of the story greater. I truly enjoyed this experience and I hope that the student teachers all took something away from the mornings stories.