Author: p.botkhin

Baruch Voices was a great event to attend and I am very happy I went. Individuals shared stories that were funny, sad, intimate, and personal. When you look at an individual, you create your own idea of who you think that person is. However, getting up on stage, these students shared a part of themselves that we would not have known just by looking at the surface. One person made their whole monologue about Popeye’s chicken making it seem as if this chicken is the best thing in the whole entire world. Another individual shared their passion for hip hop and regardless of the fact that her dancing skills are not the best, she continues to pursue this passion of hers. Students spoke about discrimination due to their religion and how that affected their lives on a daily basis. One student addressed black stereotypes in a powerful speech about how her clothes, color of her skin, and her hair does not define what is in her heart and in her brain. Another individual told a story from his first job working in a hospital leading him to realize we all learn from our mistakes. These monologues were truly amazing to listen to and were very interesting. These students were strangers before and now we know something personal about them which is truly something special.

On October 3rd, I attended the Interview Prep Workshop with Target Corporation. There were three workers in the front of the room and each took turns explaining parts of the interview process and advice they wanted to share. I came into the workshop thinking I would get nothing out of it. On the contrary, I left feeling more confident knowing how to prepare for an interview and the “do’s and dont’s”. I knew the obvious questions I would be asked during an interview such as “what are your strengths and weaknesses, tell me about yourself, etc”. However, I realized that I should be prepared to also answer questions along the lines of “what motivates you, what problems have you encountered and how did you fix the problems,” and so on. The three individuals were all very kind and helpful answering any and all questions from “what should I do with my hands when I sit down” to “what is the appropriate way to end an interview.” They took the time to fully answer your questions and concerns and really made you feel reassured and positive about the interview process. A few key pieces of advice I took away from the workshop is to have a list of past situations that illustrate your leadership, be brief and to the point, do not talk too low or too fast, tell your stories with enthusiasm, and always end on a high note. Overall the workshop was helpful and a great transition to start looking for a job/internship.

Pamela Botkhin