Young Professional Career Interview

Submission Deadline: May 1st

This summer, scholars will participate in two exciting industry capstone units that will help them explore real‑world topics and build important skills. Each industry capstone unit gives scholars a chance to learn, create, and solve problems in fun and meaningful ways. As scholars complete lessons, activities, and reflections, they will earn points through our monetary point system, which rewards hard work, responsibility, and growth throughout the summer.

  • Develop Communication Skills – Interviews provide a valuable opportunity to practice speaking clearly, confidently, and professionally—skills that will serve scholars throughout their careers.

  • Build Self-Advocacy – Scholars will learn to advocate for themselves by explaining why they are passionate about specific careers, which is essential for success in any professional setting.

  • Earn Recognition – The interviews are part of our point system, allowing scholars to earn points toward our monthly award for those who show exceptional dedication and growth throughout the summer.

Interview Sample

Summer Industries

  • Agriculture Interview

    This summer, scholars step inside the world of agriculture to explore how food is grown, moved, and protected from farm to table. They will uncover how the Farm Bill shapes nutrition, land use, and community access to healthy food. Through hands‑on investigations, scholars will examine real food systems and the inequities that impact marginalized communities. By the end, they will think like problem‑solvers who understand how agriculture sustains families, neighborhoods, and the future.

    Let's Go!

  • Dance Interview & Audition

    In the Dance Industry pathway, scholars dive into the artistry, entrepreneurship, and protections behind creative work. They will explore choreography, cultural traditions, creative ownership, and the business moves that help artists thrive. Through performance, creation, and analysis, scholars learn how the entertainment world uplifts — and sometimes challenges — marginalized creators. By the end, they will understand that their voice, ideas, and movement have value, purpose, and power.

    Let's Go!

  • Political Science Interview

    Our Political Science experience empowers scholars to examine how policies, systems, and civic decisions shape daily life in marginalized communities. Students will analyze community challenges, debate real solutions, and reenact the roles of lawmakers, advocates, and organizers. Using evidence from texts and real city issues, they’ll learn how power moves — and how they can move power. Scholars leave with the confidence to question systems, propose change, and envision a more just community.

    Let's Go!

Questions

  • The interviews are part of our preparation for the Young Professionals Program. They help us get to know your scholar better and understand their interests in specific careers. This information will guide us in creating a personalized experience that is both fun and educational, ensuring that your scholar is placed in a career field they are passionate about.

  • The interviews serve as pre-assessment data. They help us understand your scholar’s strengths, interests, and goals for the summer. This data will allow us to tailor the program to your scholar’s needs and provide the best possible experience. It also helps us identify areas where your scholar may need additional support or guidance during the summer.

  • The videos will be reviewed by the professors and staff involved in the Young Professionals Program. These include career industry professionals who will mentor your scholar, as well as program coordinators who help ensure a smooth and engaging experience. Your scholar’s video will help these individuals create an effective learning environment based on their interests and goals.

  • The interview questions are designed to give us insight into your scholar’s motivation, career interests, and skills. The answers will also help us understand how your scholar thinks and approaches problem-solving. This information ensures that we can match them with the right career field and ensure they have an enjoyable and enriching experience.

  • The video interview should be no longer than 5-7 minutes. This gives your scholar enough time to demonstrate their knowledge and interest in the career fields they are considering, while keeping the process focused and engaging.

  • Yes, depending on the career they are interviewing for, your scholar may need to demonstrate a related activity. For example, in the Dance Career Interview, they will need to perform a dance routine by Professor T using any appropriate song.

    In other career fields like Agriculture or Political Science, they may show relevant visuals or share examples related to their interests.

  • After the interviews are submitted, the professors and program coordinators will review the videos.

    They will use the information to assign your scholar to a specific career program that best aligns with their interests and goals.

    Scholars will receive their career assignment during curriculum night on Thursday, May 28th.

Who to Contact if You Have Questions:

If you have any questions about the interview process or need assistance, please contact:
Prof. Hurse, Parent Liaison
Phone: (816) 665-4446