Suzanne Martin, Youth Employment Specialist at the Guidance Center (left), with National Grid’s Sarah Kahrs and Paula Gendreau.
North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center and National Grid held the second event in their new partnership as two National Grid employees generously donated their time and expertise to coach students in the Mock Interview Day at Nassau B.O.C.E.S. High School in Wantagh.
At this special annual event, more than 150 interviews were conducted, with employees from National Grid, East Meadow Public Library and other organizations speaking with students individually as if they were on an actual job interview.
“The Mock Interview Day is an invaluable experience for students to practice their communication and social skills,” said Suzanne Martin, youth employment counselor at the Guidance Center’s Intensive Support Program at Nassau B.O.C.E.S., where students receive intensive mental health services on site. “It helps them learn how to present their best selves and realize that first impressions do matter when you’re looking for a job.”
“This event was an incredible experience,” said Sarah Kahrs, U.S. performance excellence coach at National Grid and one of the volunteer interviewers. “It was so exciting to be able to take an active role in helping these young adults prepare for their future. In spite of the students coming in a bit nervous, I was so impressed by how prepared they were.”
Paula Gendreau, National Grid senior supervisor of operations, also enjoyed her experience coaching the students. “Volunteering was such a great opportunity,” she said. “I was impressed by all the positive energy. I was fortunate to meet some great candidates, and it was my pleasure to be a part of a wonderful event.”
Martin said while most of the students were initially very anxious, they felt very accomplished and proud after their interviews. “A lot of students thought they didn’t do well, but they got great feedback from their interviewers,” she said. “It’s a real boost for their self-esteem, and we’re so grateful to National Grid and all the participants for their role in making this event such a huge success.”
The event was the second of several that the Guidance Center has planned in partnership with National Grid. “We work with many organizations across Long Island and in NYC helping to prepare students for their future,” said Kathleen Wisnewski, National Grid customer and community manager. “We’re excited about our partnership with the Guidance Center, and we look forward to more events.”
About North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center:
As the preeminent not-for-profit children’s mental health agency on Long Island, North Shore Child & Family Guidance Center is dedicated to restoring and strengthening the emotional well-being of children (from birth – age 24) and their families.
National Grid is an electricity, natural gas and clean energy delivery company serving more than 20 million people through our networks in New York, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. It is the largest distributor of natural gas in the Northeast.
