Economics and Business Department Hosted Mock Interview Event

Westminster College's Department of Economics and Business hosted an opportunity for majors to participate in mock interviews April 14.

The event was organized by Dr. Daniel Fischmar, professor of economics and business, with assistance from alumni Mark Drabick '10, Ben Nelson '06, and Christie Grewe Nelson '06, and Karen Coulter, department secretary.

According to Fischmar, students could improve their interviewing skills by learning how to highlight their attributes; developing a résumé that stands out; networking with alumni and business professionals; and identifying skills that may need improvement.

Participating students in business attire arrived with résumés and were scheduled for separate interviews with three of nearly a dozen business professionals, most of whom were Westminster alumni:
• Crystal Arbore '08, ThermoFisher Scientific
• Micah Delo '06, AXA Advisors
• Jackie Faber '08, Alcoa
• Kelly Fee '10, Liberty Mutual
• Jordan Hinds '06, UPMC
• Joanna McClelland '05, State Farm Insurance
• Richard McKenna '84, Schneider Downs
• Ben Nelson '06, Moody's
• Tom Nelson, Ameriprise Financial
• Lisa Smith, ACCESS/CollegeBound
• Todd Smith, Mahoning Unlimited/CollegeBound

Post-event evaluations were positive.  Students appreciated the opportunity to meet and ask questions of professionals in their field; receive feedback on their résumés and skills and suggestions on how to improve; and learn the types of questions to expect in an interview and how to answer professionally.

One interviewer was "really impressed by the students, their professionalism, and preparedness."   Another, who does not normally interview candidates, found the opportunity to gain additional skills very beneficial.  All enjoyed meeting the students and felt it was a great event for future professionals and potential candidates for employment. 

Members of Westminster's Student in Free Enterprise provided assistance with registration, session transitions, and lunch.

Contact Fischmar at (724) 946-7162 or email for additional information.

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