Professor of Business Law John Winn, J.D., a former member of the U.S. Army’s Judge Advocate General’s Corps, recommended me for the internship, noting that I took both his business law and human resources/employment law classes and had more than 20 years of retail management experience. I then made sure to follow up in a timely manner to set up an interview appointment.
I arrived early for my interview, entering the building with a friendly smile on my face. Several people noticed and commented that my smile made their day. While waiting in the lobby, I reviewed note cards I made after researching the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers using both online and printed sources.
Alumna Mary Dyke
After sitting down with the interview panel, I gave its members copies of my resume. I added that my references were also available, and that they were welcome to make copies of them to refer to during the interview, which they did.
During the interview, I informed the interview panel of how I enjoy learning about other countries. Since this branch of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers serves in the Middle East, I mentioned how much I’ve learned from international Shenandoah students, particularly those from Saudi Arabia, and revealed that, out of respect, I do not eat or drink in front of fellow students during their daytime fasts during the month of Ramadan.
Also, I took my time with the panel’s questions. Before I answered, I would pause and repeat the question to allow time to format the best answer possible. At the end of the interview, I was polite and thanked the panel members for their time.
By being prepared, open, and professional, I brought the best I had to offer to the interview. And now, I have the internship!
