On July 31, Brin-Leigh and Djouby Hoisington participated in the Ohio 4-H Mock Job Interview event during Workforce Preparation Day at the Ohio State Fair. The siblings, both active Fairfield County 4-H members, showcased their preparation and poise as they interviewed for simulated job positions. The siblings demonstrated their growing confidence and skills, leaving a lasting impression on judges and their proud mother, Amber Miller Hoisington.
Brin-Leigh, a high school sophomore with aspirations in animal science and healthcare, interviewed for the Patient Support Assistant position at OhioHealth Grant Medical Center. Reflecting on her experience, Brin-Leigh shared, "To prepare for my interview, I updated my resume and cover letter, read over them a few times, but was careful not to overprepare so I sounded natural."
Brin-Leigh learned valuable lessons during the interview process. "A lesson I learned from participating in this event is having answers that are concise—not 
too short and not too long," she said. She also received positive feedback from the judges, who noted her professionalism and confidence. "I will continue to conduct myself in this manner during interviews and at work," Brin-Leigh added.
She believes the experience will benefit her as she applies to colleges and future job opportunities. "Participating in mock interviews will benefit me because I will have an idea of what to expect in the interview and will be better prepared, professional, and confident—with the goal of getting accepted for the position. Interviewing is a great skill, and I highly recommend doing the Workforce Prep project."
Djouby Hoisington, a fifth grader interested in healthcare, interviewed for a Surgical Tech position at OhioHealth Pickerington Methodist Hospital. "Going into the mock interview, I was a little nervous," he admitted. Afterward, I felt good about my interview."
The judges offered Djouby valuable advice, encouraging him to "flex his speaking muscles" more during interviews. He will take this feedback to heart: "I plan to continue developing my interview and communication skills by using more words when answering questions."
Their mother, Amber Miller Hoisington, has witnessed her children's growth through their participation in 4-H. "4-H has offered so much for my children. They have grown by forming a strong work ethic, improving leadership and communication skills, and learning beyond the classroom, but most importantly, the positive relationships formed with others in this community."
Amber's reaction to seeing her children participate in the Ohio 4-H Mock Job Interview event was emotional. "The work Brin-Leigh has put into preparing for this project over the years, the growth made, and her improved confidence—it was fun to see her step out on stage as the Overall Winner of the Intermediate level," Amber said. "As for Djouby, who came to our family from Haiti just before his sixth birthday, it was a sweet victory to see him make eye contact, occasionally smile, and answer the questions despite not placing."
Amber encourages her children to participate in the Ohio 4-H Mock Interview because "the skills gained are valuable to prepare them for college acceptance and real-world competitive job interviews." She believes these experiences will give her children an advantage in their future educational and career pursuits.