Elise Halton, an Industry Careers Consultant from NECA Education and Careers, volunteered as an interviewer for the RIJI program, motivated by her belief in empowering young people to thrive in professional environments. She saw the program as a valuable opportunity to help students build confidence and develop the skills needed for job interviews. Elise described the experience as deeply fulfilling, noting how even one practice interview could make a noticeable difference in a young person’s ability to present themselves.
The RIJI program, in Elise’s view, offers something unique—an environment that is both safe and supportive, allowing students to practice real-world skills they might not otherwise have the chance to develop. She likened the program to a “steppingstone” that helps students transition smoothly into professional roles, sparing them some of the challenges that can come with entering the workforce unprepared.
Elise’s most rewarding moments came from seeing the transformation in the students she interviewed. Many began the process visibly nervous, with darting eyes and uncertain handshakes. However, by the end of their sessions, they were making direct eye contact, offering firm handshakes, and leaving with bright smiles. Elise credited this change to the supportive nature of the RIJI program, which she felt allowed students to realise that the interview process wasn’t about testing them but rather about helping them showcase their true selves.
During the interviews, Elise provided constructive feedback, particularly around resume writing. She noticed that many students had undersold the skills they had developed in part-time roles and extra-curricular activities. Elise encouraged them to elaborate on their experiences, such as teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to work under pressure, helping them to see the professional value of what they had already achieved.
Reflecting on her own career journey, Elise recognised how much she would have benefited from a program like RIJI when she was younger. Although she had always been a proactive young person, getting her first job delivering papers at 11 years old, she acknowledged the value of having someone from the community provide feedback and guidance during those early stages of her working life.
Elise was quick to recommend volunteering for the RIJI program to others, describing it as immensely rewarding. She felt that helping young people take their first steps into the professional world was an experience like no other. Elise concluded by praising the program’s organisation and positive atmosphere, saying, “It’s such a well-coordinated and powerful initiative. I can’t wait to do it again.”