PartnerUp participants meet Charlie Batch, interview with employers

A.W. Beattie students participating in PartnerUp recently visited the Best of the Batch building for the “Super Day” PNC Partner-Up interviewing event.

The Super Day interviews are a culmination of eight training sessions with the goal of providing students additional career skills to students in order to help them become workplace ready. Students were interviewed by local employers, led by PNC Bank in the Pittsburgh region, for available positions. All employers participating in PartnerUp offer full-time entry-level career positions that provide full benefits, like medical and retirement, as well as education benefits.

“For most students, this was their first experience in a formal interview process,” A.W. Beattie Assistant Director Dr. Jason Watkins said. “The interview day was well organized and the Best of the Batch Team hosting the event provided a vibrant space and genuine hospitality that contributed to a positive experience. Charlie Batch himself was onsite and took a moment to snap a photo with our students. Altogether, it was great to see organizations engaged in meaningful partnerships to support students, provide opportunities and make a difference in the futures of these aspiring young professionals.”

PartnerUp sessions aim to teach students additional workplace communication skills, an understanding of their career foundations, professional strengths, how to build themselves as a brand and building their power skills.

“Participating seniors also strengthen their resumes by receiving feedback directly from the employers,” A.W. Beattie counselor Mrs. Sara Goodyear said. “Students are able to network in person with many of the participating employers and receive professional feedback to support their career growth. The employers help to reinforce the necessary skills to excel at interviewing through engaging in mock interviews.”

PartnerUp also will have a Signing Day in which students will celebrate any opportunities they have received.