The Career Prep Interview Contest is based off of the Louisiana 4-H University Career Prep Interview Contest. It is a great way for 4-H members to get hands-on experience in different areas of career preparation such as writing a resume, writing a cover letter, completing a job application, and being interviewed by a potential employer. These skills are invaluable as youth progress further in their lives and into their future careers.

The winner of the Career Prep Contest may be eligible for an award of a full paid scholarship to 4-H University to be used in the same year to compete in the Career Prep State Competition.

Contest Description: Individual contestants, using the guidelines and forms, submit an application and resume, then participate in a job interview. Use the score sheets in planning your documents and interview.

Grade Division: Senior Level– 9th - 12th

Rules:

1. Individual Competition
2. Printed resume and job application form (2 copies) must be submitted at check-in at Demo Day.
3. Job Application- complete attached form.
4. Resume- No designated form provided. Each contestant should research the important components of a resume and prepare the resume accordingly. Contestants submit the resume giving the qualifications for the job for which he/she is applying. It is recommended that the resume be one page in length and typed in 10-12pt font.
5. The interview will be based on the job the contestant is applying for now, one that represents a present day situation. The contestant identifies the job for which he/she wants to be interviewed and places the title of that job on the Job Application and Resume. Contestants will be asked questions relating to workplace ethics and other knowledge as indicated on the interview scorecard during the interview process. Following the interview(s), the judges will take a few minutes visiting with each contestant highlighting strengths and suggested areas of improvement. This will make this contest a true learning experience!
6. All career prep participants will be judged by the same group of judges, thereby eliminating the necessity for tie breakers.
7. Contestant(s) should arrive on time for check in and remain until interviews are completed.

Attire: Professional Attire is required

• For the guys: slacks, button up shirt, tie, and dress shoes/boots.
• For the girls: Dress or skirt (appropriate length) or nice dress pants and/or blouse; dress shoes.

Resources: http://www.lsu.edu/students/careercenter/files/201... as a helpful guide to creating your resume and preparing for an interview. Be mindful these are college resumes, you should adapt the information relating to your present educational level.

Judges Look For:

• Positive First Impression- smile, make eye contact, good handshake, dress appropriately
• Among others, be prepared to answer questions like…
• “Tell me about yourself.”
• “What characteristics/experiences do you have that would make you good at ___ job.”
• “What are your strengths/weaknesses?”
• “Why do you want ___ job?”
• “How will you manage your time between school, work, and extracurricular activities?”
• “How do you resolve conflict on a project team?”
• “Where do you find yourself in 5 year, and how do you plan to reach that goal?”