Building Confidence, One Conversation at a Time

This month, Junior Achievement partnered with local businesses and dedicated volunteers to provide two powerful mock interview experiences for young people preparing to take their next steps into the workforce. These events offered students the chance to practice real-world communication skills, receive personalized feedback, and build confidence for future job opportunities.

On Wednesday, December 3rd, students from The NET: Central City completed their advisory class with a culminating assignment designed to prepare them for life beyond graduation—mock job interviews. Throughout the semester, students have been developing essential “real-world” skills: communication, self-presentation, time management, conflict resolution, and workplace readiness.

The mock interviews gave them the chance not only to practice these skills in a professional setting, but also to connect directly with local employers. Several graduating seniors took advantage of the opportunity to network with volunteers, asking questions about career pathways, workplace expectations, and even potential employment openings. These conversations added an exciting, real-world dimension to the experience and helped seniors plan concrete next steps after graduation.

Volunteers from State Farm, Xplore Federal Credit Union, Fifth District Savings Bank, and BankPlusdedicated their morning to conducting interviews and offering thoughtful feedback. Their insights helped students sharpen their responses, refine their résumés, and better understand what employers look for when hiring. Students walked away with renewed confidence and a clearer vision for their future careers.

On Wednesday, December 10th, JA volunteers visited Opportunities Academy, a post-secondary transitional program for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Opportunities Academy supports students as they build the academic, social, and career skills needed to achieve greater independence, including gaining and maintaining meaningful employment.

Volunteers from BankPlus and 3 Pillars HR conducted mock interviews with students as part of their workforce development curriculum. These conversations play a vital role in preparing young adults for competitive employment, helping them practice communication, self-advocacy, and the confidence to navigate professional environments with independence.

Across both events, our volunteers offered far more than their time. They provided encouragement, expertise, and real-world perspective that students rarely receive in a classroom alone. JA is deeply grateful to each volunteer who helped create such meaningful experiences for the young people we serve.

These mock interviews are a reminder of what becomes possible when educators, employers, and community members come together: young people gain the confidence to step boldly into their futures.