UK College of Education students prepare to land first teaching jobs

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 6, 2025) — University of Kentucky students ready to make a difference as future educators recently had the opportunity to sharpen their interview skills. More than 20 area principals and school leaders gathered at Frederick Douglass High School last month to conduct mock interviews and meet with potential job applicants preparing to enter the profession.  

“The student teachers I spoke with were articulate and eager to talk about their student teaching experiences,” said Lizette Rogers, principal of Arlington Elementary School. “While I had a few questions prepared, most came with their own questions and wanted supports in refining their responses. It was a pleasure assisting them in their goals of becoming an educator.” 

During the event, school leaders offered advice and encouragement to the aspiring teachers. Russell Cave Elementary School Principal Alexander Butler urged students not to seek a position simply to “fit in.” 

“Each one of you has unique qualities and experiences that help to enhance what a school already has,” Butler said. “Be confident in what you have to offer.”

UK clinical instructor Joni Meade consistently sees student growth through the mock interview event. 

“Students are often nervous about their first job interview, but we see their confidence really start to form through this experience,” Meade said. “The school leaders provide feedback and help ensure our teacher candidates are well-prepared for the hiring process that will take place this spring and summer.” 

UK elementary education senior Catherine Hunter said the event helped ease her nerves as she prepares to enter the job market. 

“The most beneficial part of the seminar was being able to get face time with principals. It has answered a lot of questions and helped with some nervousness,” Hunter said. “I hope to convey to leaders that I am a person who values connection alongside data, who leads with compassion.”

While elementary education majors met with principals from elementary schools in small groups, students preparing for careers in middle level (grades 5-9) and secondary education (grades 8-12) spoke with school leaders from Frederick Douglass High School, which hosted the event.  

Frederick Douglass Principal Lester Diaz encouraged students to seek schools that align with their goals as educators. 

“Often times, doors open and you must be ready to accept these opportunities. Your ‘fit’ is out there, stay positive and you will find your work home,” Diaz said. “You are interviewing them just as much as they are interviewing you.”  

For many new teachers, the first year in the classroom comes with support from school leaders and veteran educators who serve as mentors. Frederick Douglass High School Freshmen Academy Principal Alden Meade said he takes pride in helping student teachers and new teachers grow into confident professionals.   

“Being an administrator at both the middle and high school levels throughout my career, I enjoyed talking with teacher candidates from programs at both the middle level program and the master’s with initial certification program,” he said. “As an administrator, I am always looking for the candidate who is receptive to feedback, flexible and a team player.” 

In addition to networking with school leaders, students also had a chance to hear from a representative from the UK Stuckert Career Center, who offered guidance on tailoring resumes to job descriptions and researching potential employers. The event also featured a career fair that included schools from Clark, Fayette, Franklin, Jessamine and Woodford counties. 

“This event provides a valuable platform for graduates to connect directly with principals, gain insights through Q&A and receive constructive feedback,” said Arlington Elementary Principal John Moore. “I appreciate the opportunity each year to engage with the talented graduates from the UK education department. This initiative offers a significant advantage to students as they navigate the often-daunting interview process.”