Practice Interview Reflection

Megan LaFrance
2/24/23

The teacher candidate will write a reflection of the process which could include questions that
were difficult to answer; questions that surprised the candidate; questions that were easy to
answer, etc.

This past Friday I attended KU’s student teacher professional development day. This in-
service provided me with beneficial experiences and information that I will take with me as I am
applying for teaching jobs very soon. I was put into a small group of roughly 15 student teachers
like myself, and a principal mock interviewed us. I was with the principal from Brandywine
Heights and he was a very nice, welcoming, and a friendly guy. I was nervous to be interviewed
especially in front of all my peers, but the fact that he didn’t overly intimidate us made it a bit
easier. I was asked the “million-dollar question” of introducing and telling a little bit about my
stuff. I did well and included important and relevant information that I wanted to say about my
teaching and educational experiences. However, with the nervousness of being interviewed it
was difficult at points to make sure to remember everything I wanted to say because I didn’t
want to forget important information that would benefit me in being hired. But the principal said
it was okay to bring a neat sheet to reference and glance out, so we don’t miss any significant
talking points. We also discussed how to prepare for an interview, answering questions relating
to behavior management, how to make lessons engaging, personal stories with students, after
interview follow up thank you email, and to come prepared with questions to ask them to show
your interest. I also learned how important it is to include relevant and significant information
while discussing your work experience. You want to provide the best stuff you’ve done. This
experience was very helpful to me and gave me a very real-word sense of how interviewing will
go, and how to prepare best.