It’s been a few weeks since the last post, but here it is, the newest Q&A session with NYQUEST, this week it’s all about the interviews you will have with your agency.
1. Will my interview be in person?
This really depends on the agency you apply through. Many summer camp programs have offices across Europe and the world, which might mean you could have an in-person interview with a representative.
NYQUEST is based in Canada, which allows us to provide really great on the ground support once you arrive, but since we don’t have offices in other parts of the world we do our interviews via Skype. When you sign up for an interview be sure to take note of the time difference to ensure you show up at the correct time.
2. How do I prepare for my interview?
This interview will be informal, but you should certainly take some time to prepare ahead of time. Here are some tips:
Do a test call – Test your Skype the day before your interview to ensure that your microphone, camera and internet are working properly.
Wake up early – We know that interviews can sometimes be at odd hours due to the time difference, but be sure you are fully awake, energized, and ready to impress.
Clean your room – This is optional, but FYI, we can see everything that is behind you in the video screen!
Dress appropriately – Camp is casual so you can be too, but be sure that your clothes are clean, in tact, and camp appropriate (no profanities or revealing clothing, for example).
Be punctual – You should always be ready a few minutes before the scheduled start time. If you are delayed be sure to send us an email to let us know.
3. What questions will I be asked?
The purpose of the interview is just to get to know you better. We speak to you face to face to get a sense of your personality, to ask specific questions about your skills, and to find out type of camp, and position you are looking for. This helps us to find a camp that is a perfect fit for you! You can expect to answer questions about your experience working with children, about the skills you have to offer, and about your previous work and volunteer experience.
4. Do I need to do research first?
Great idea! It’s always a good idea to do a bit of research before heading into an interview, and your camp interview is no exception. You should take a thorough look through our website so that you’ll understand how the program works. This will help figure out what you still don’t know about the program, and help you think of relevant questions to ask during your interview.
5. How formal will it be?
The interview team at NYQUEST are a friendly bunch, and we really just want to get to know you- so there is nothing to be nervous about. That said, you should of course come prepared, be polite, and show respect to your interviewer.
6. What are you looking for in an applicant?
The most important thing we look for in an applicant is a great outgoing personality. We also look for applicants who display a strong passion for working with kids, and have good experience in their chosen skill area.
7. I am worried that I don’t have enough childcare or teaching experience, what should I do?
Don’t panic, you may have more experience than you think! Before your interview take some time to think hard about your previous experience- perhaps you have a ton of cousins who you entertain at family events, or maybe you have a young neighbour that you have taught to play football in your backyard. Think about your camp skills as well, have you ever assisted a friend or given tips to a beginner? You likely have more informal experience than you realize.
Summer Camp Secrets 