MVNU Education Department hosts Career Interview Fair  

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — The Education Department at Mount Vernon Nazarene University hosted 26 school districts and 38 graduating seniors for the Career Interview Fair.   

The students prepared both in and out of the classroom for the interviews, selecting to interview with three or four of their priority school districts.

“One of our goals in the department is to find placements for graduating seniors,” said Ross Carter, P-12 Education Partnership Coordinator. “Last year we had several job offers come from the interview fair itself. Networking also gives them opportunities for further interviews.”

Noelle Dudgeon, a senior Elementary Education and Intervention major, praised the Education Department for prioritizing interview preparation in the classroom. In addition, Gary Swisher, Director of Career Development, worked with each student to develop crucial skills needed to make a good impression in an interview setting. 

“We went through several seminars and training sessions with Mr. Swisher,” said Dudgeon. “As someone who has never had to build a resume before, he had a lot of insight — we got a lot of tips on how to dress professionally and how to go through interviews.”

Students aren’t the only beneficiaries of the career fair; school district representatives had the opportunity to evaluate a myriad of candidates to fill entry-level positions in their schools. Cody Reese, Principal of East Knox Junior/Senior High School, and alumnus of MVNU, was among the district representatives conducting interviews. 

“We like to be a part of the process of [interacting with] young teachers — getting opportunities to talk with them and giving them opportunities to stay in the area,” Reese remarked, “it’s a great opportunity and a win-win for both sides.”

While most students won’t accept a position with a school district until June or July, four students have already solidified teaching positions through the interview fair.

“Overall, the day was a great success and we look forward to seeing where the Lord leads our graduating seniors in their teaching careers,” said Carter.

For more information on all MVNU’s programs, visit mvnu.edu/program-finder.