I applied online. I interviewed at Olympic College (Bremerton, WA) in Sept 2024
Interview
I was deeply disappointed with the hiring process for the Department of International Education at Olympic College. The timeline was unnecessarily protracted—two months from my initial application to the interview. Unfortunately, the interview itself was even more disheartening.
One committee member arrived several minutes late to the Zoom interview and displayed a lack of professionalism throughout. They were inappropriately dressed, seemed distracted, and appeared visibly annoyed to be participating. This behavior set a poor tone for the entire process.
The questions posed during the interview were repetitive and poorly constructed—essentially reworded versions of "How have you resolved conflicts between students?" There are only so many ways to answer that question effectively, yet this seemed to dominate the session. Additionally, the questions felt culturally biased at worst and unrefined at best, which is especially troubling for a department centered on international students.
I also found it concerning that some members of the hiring committee were not part of the International Education department at all. One interviewer was a student intern, and another had only worked at the institution for a few weeks. The inclusion of individuals with minimal connection to or experience in the department raised questions about the consistency and professionalism of the hiring process.
At the end of the interview, I asked each panel member about the department's strengths and goals. Only one provided a coherent answer, while the rest gave vague, unenthusiastic responses, further emphasizing a lack of interest or vision.
Following the interview, I sent a follow-up email to the committee member I had been in contact with, expressing gratitude and sharing an outline of ideas to support their goals. I received no response. Instead, I was met with an automated rejection email stating that while I was qualified, I was not selected. Over the following weeks, I received additional automated rejection emails—an unnecessary and careless oversight.
In summary, the process was unprofessional, disorganized, and uninspiring. I was truly so excited for the potential this role had to offer, but this experience has dissuaded me from pursuing opportunities with Olympic College altogether. For an institution that presumably values intercultural competence and professionalism, this experience fell far short of expectations.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
How have you resolved conflicts between students in the past?
I applied through an employee referral. The process took 1 week. I interviewed at Olympic College (Bremerton, WA) in Sept 2021
Interview
I was recommended for this position so as soon as I replied that I would like to try, everything was all set. But if it is not offered, then questions will be asked such as what makes you think that this position fits to you? and etc.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
The only question I was asked was if I wanted to try the student ambassador position. I was recommended for that position.
I applied online. I interviewed at Olympic College (Bremerton, WA) in Sept 2020
Interview
Lasted about 20 minutes, asked for specific examples of how I would handle certain situations with students. Provided an idea of what day to day would look like. Let me know upfront about lack of advancement.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
How do you handle a student that's taking up their allotted time?