For many of us, job interviews are nerve-wracking — even when we’ve done dozens of them. Now imagine walking into one without ever having had the chance to practice. That’s the reality for many of the adults The HOPE Program serves, and it’s exactly why our Interview Projects are one of the most impactful parts of our curriculum.
What Are the Interview Projects?
Every cohort of HOPE students participates in mock interview sessions as part of the HOPEworks job readiness curriculum. These aren’t casual run-throughs. Students dress in professional attire, sit across from real professionals, and answer the kinds of questions they’ll face in actual job interviews. Afterward, volunteers provide honest, constructive feedback — not just on answers, but on body language, eye contact, handshakes, and overall presentation.
This past year, we expanded the experience by adding a second event dedicated to the elevator pitch. Students practice introducing themselves with confidence and clarity — a skill that’s essential not only in interviews but in networking, career fairs, and everyday professional interactions. Together, these two events give our students repeated, structured opportunities to build the kind of confidence that only comes from experience.
It Takes a Village (of Volunteers)
None of this happens without the generosity of professionals who donate their time. Our Interview Projects rely entirely on volunteers willing to step into the role of interviewer for a few hours. Sometimes a corporate partner hosts the event at their office, providing both the space and a team of employee volunteers. Other times, volunteers come to us, visiting one of our program sites to work directly with students in our space. Either way, the format is personal and hands-on.
Volunteers don’t need any special training — just a willingness to engage, listen, and share honest feedback. Many tell us that the experience is just as rewarding for them as it is for the students. There’s something powerful about watching someone find their voice in real time, and knowing that your encouragement helped get them there.
Why It Matters
For HOPE students — adults overcoming barriers to employment across New York City — the Interview Projects are often a turning point. Many participants have told us it was the first time anyone sat them down and walked them through what a strong interview looks and feels like. The feedback they receive is specific and actionable: Slow down when you answer. Lead with your strengths. Don’t forget to ask a question at the end.
These sessions transform abstract job-readiness concepts into muscle memory. By the time students are sitting across from a real hiring manager, they’ve already been there — and they know they can do it.
Get Involved
The HOPE Program runs Interview Projects and Elevator Pitch sessions throughout the year with every cohort of students. Whether you’re an individual professional or part of a company looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity, there’s a place for you at the table.
To learn more about The HOPE Program and how you can support our students’ journey to employment, email Karen Edelman, Chief Development Officer at kedelman@thehopeprogram.org.
Thank You to Our Partners
We’re grateful to the organizations that have hosted and supported our Interview Projects this past fiscal year. Their teams have opened their doors, donated their time, and helped our students build the confidence they need to succeed. A heartfelt thank you to:
- JPMorgan Chase & Co
- Prosek Partners
- Citibank
- Aprio
- Blackstone
- M&T Bank
- CVS
- LGT Group
- Robin Hood
- PwC
- BlackRock
- Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
- Accenture
- Macquarie Group
- Bank of America
- MUFG
- NineDot Energy
- The City Tutors
Interested in joining this list? We’d love to partner with your organization. To learn how your team can get involved, reach out to Daijah McDonald, Partner Engagement Manager, at dmcdonald@thehopeprogram.org.
