MCC Graduate Benefits From Counseling Center

Alison Glenn wanted to continue her education after high school. She looked for something that was affordable since she was paying for her education, and wanted something close to home. Mayland Community College became her first choice.

Glenn graduated Mayland in 2006 with an Associate in Business Administration. At the time, she was working for an insurance agency, and did not plan to go on to a four-year degree. That changed once she was hired as an Administrative Assistant to the Chief Financial Officer at the Spruce Pine Community Hospital.

Glenn learned of the job opening through the job placement services provided by Mayland’s Counseling Center Director, Doug Dewar. She also credits him with helping her to prepare for her interview through the mock interview program integrated into her Business Communications class.

“At the end of my Business Communications class we had to participate in a mock interview, and write a resume and cover letter,” said Glenn. “I didn’t think I would use that until I walked into my interview at the hospital and there were five people waiting to ask me questions. I was so nervous and the only thing I could remember were the answers from my mock interview at Mayland.”

Glenn said the questions asked in her job interview at the hospital were similar to the questions asked in the mock interview, and being able to practice ahead of time made a big difference.  Dewar also gave the students a list of questions to help them prepare for real job interviews.

“I definitely felt more confident in my interview, in fact they called me several minutes after the interview to offer me the job,” said Glenn.

Dewar believes that the mock interview program for Business students is innovative and effective.

 “For several years now I’ve partnered with Business instructor, Brenda McFee to conduct personalized mock interviews for all business students. This program can be pretty challenging, but students really value it because they are all concerned about being able to land a good job. It’s great to see their confidence and skill improve over the course of the training and during the interviews.”

With the support of her employer, Glenn has decided to pursue her four-year degree. She visited Mayland’s Counseling Services Center once again to receive assistance on finding the right program that fit her needs and gather financial aid information. Glenn will begin Gardner Webb University’s GOAL Program in the fall, and will take her classes online.

According to Glenn, Mayland was the best choice for her, and going to school there allowed her to work full time, get her degree, and helped her continue on with her four-year degree.

“I would highly recommend people to use the Counseling Center,” said Glenn. “Talk with counselors and get help with your future, or ask them about jobs that are available in the community.”