On Friday, February 7, Vermont Law and Graduate School’s Career Services Office held its annual Mock Interview Program for first-year residential law students. A cornerstone of student development for nearly 15 years, this initiative is designed to help prepare first-year law students (1Ls) for the rigors of hiring season by inviting alumni and other professionals to serve as interviewers.
With more than 100 simulated job interviews conducted during this year’s event, volunteer interviewers offered invaluable guidance, tailoring their approach for each meeting. For students new to the interview process, this included a conversation about their goals and potential career paths, while those who have already garnered professional experience were asked deeper, more thought-provoking questions.
“We select interviewers who are kind, knowledgeable, and who understand the different needs of students,” said Eli Gleason JD/MELP’15, director of Career Services. The goal of the exercise is to equip students with the tools and confidence to succeed in their eventual career interviews.
During the 30-minute interviews, the first 20 minutes are typically spent fielding questions, while the last 10 minutes are reserved for constructive feedback and the opportunity to ask follow-up questions of the interviewer.
“The mock interview process provided me with an easy and low-risk way to practice my interview skills,” said Abigail Durrant JD’26. “My interviewer reviewed both my resume and interview responses. He not only gave me valuable insight and feedback, but he also helped me with specific internship questions I had during the networking event.”
Following the one-on-one sessions, students and interviewers attended a cocktail hour, which provided a chance to continue networking and debrief in a more casual setting. “It’s always great to end the day with a networking opportunity,” said Gleason. “Students have the chance to talk with people who were previously in their shoes and are now doing really exciting work.”
Career Services starts planning for the event months in advance, beginning with résumé collection and editing in late summer. Students are then meticulously matched with interviewers based on shared interests. This customized approach ensures that each student learns from relevant and meaningful conversations with their interviewer.
This program has led to numerous success stories throughout the years, with some students securing jobs as a direct result of their mock interviews. Regardless of whether they leave with a job offer in hand, all students gain practical insight into their future careers. Many students credit the program with influencing their ultimate career path.
The event is also enjoyable and mutually beneficial: students connect with people who are doing the things they came to law school to do, while interviewers can discuss their areas of expertise with equally passionate students.
“Career Services helped me prepare for the interview, which made the process less intimidating,” said Durrant. “There is no such thing as being too prepared, and a mock interview is a great way to shake off the nerves and get ready for interviews to come!”
The Mock Interview Program is a testament to Vermont Law and Graduate School’s commitment to student success and professional development, not to mention the dedication of the accomplished alumni who volunteer their time. Congratulations to this year’s 1Ls on completing their mock interviews and refining their professional skillset!
