DeeAnna Muraski, left, and Alysha Beachy during the mock interview event. Muraski is the associate director of internships and an adjunct professor in the business department at Grace College. Beachy is a senior at Grace, majoring in elementary education.

By AMANDA BANKS
Director of Public Relations, Grace College

WINONA LAKE — Grace College hosted its fifth annual mock interview event for upperclassmen on Thursday, March 31. The evening included two sets of interviews and an intermission for continued conversation between students and local employers.

According to Denise Terry, director of the Center for Career Connections at Grace College, the mock interview event provides a unique opportunity for participating students. “They are able to practice interviewing with real professionals from a wide variety of industries. Students can significantly improve their skills as a result,” she said. “It’s a safe environment in which to learn and receive feedback.”

The event was sponsored by the Center for Career Connection and Office of Advancement at Grace College. This year, 65 employers participated, including The Bowen Center, Wildman Business Group and Warsaw Community Schools. Additionally, Warsaw Mayor Joseph Thallemer and Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce President Rob Parker were present.

During the course of the evening, students engaged in one or both sets of interviewing times. They interacted with employers in and outside of their fields of interest. After conducting an interview, each employer provided the student with ways to improve. During the intermission, students and employers enjoyed light refreshments and relaxed conversation.

Alysha Beachy, a Grace College senior, participated in the evening. “I think it was an excellent experience,” Beachy said. “It helped calm my nerves. The employers made me feel comfortable and gave me a real idea of what to expect in the interviewing process.” Overall, the event left Beachy confident and ready to engage in future interviews.