Earlier in September

I’m sitting in a park somewhere in Vancouver waiting for the right moment to approach the building my interview will take place in. I walked past and noticed you have to ring a buzzer to be allowed inside so timing is crucial. I’m probably 40 minutes too early but only 30-25 if you count being promptly 10-15 minutes early/on time for interview standards.
I’m trying not to be nervous. I’m trying to convince myself I’m excited for the opportunity, which I am.  I’m trying not to be sweaty from my walk from the skytrain.

The crows here are massive.

Brave too.
I prepared as much as possible. I can keep trying to guess the questions, the layout, the numbers but I think it’s unhealthy.
I sincerely hope my mind connects with my mouth.
I see mountains in the distance with 13 minutes to go.
In ten I will probably start walking.
Lots of people pass through this park which makes me feel less of a creeper. It’s a different neighbourhood but it’d definitely not the lower east side. I will be ok.
Here goes.

Some time later….

I wrote down what I remembered of the interview questions

What brought you to love
Public speaking
What is violence
How would you engage youth who are being disruptive
What media related experience can I bring to the group
How it would benefit me
What I could bring to love
Leadership and letting others take the reins
What is my biggest challenge in this role
Did I know what types of violence youth were experiencing
Let me know tomorrow
Send Bruce my telephone number
Outreach program two youth going to schools sometimes small groups once in awhile large

The Friday After

Hello Stephanie,

I want to thank you very much for applying for the Program Facilitator position and for taking time to come in for an interview.  You are a strong candidate.  I regret to inform you we are unable to hire you at this time. We had to give the position to someone whose combination of skills and experience was an even better fit for the position.

I am sure that your initiative, commitment to creative empowerment and ongoing development through real experience will allow you to do amazing things for the community.  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

thank you

Monday

Thank you for getting back to me. I was hoping that you could elaborate on the combination of skills and experience the other candidate possessed which made them a better fit. It would be a great way of understanding how I can move forward in the non-profit world.

Thank you for your time.

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Hello Stephanie,

The successful candidate had more extensive experience with youth serving social justice based media empowerment organizations and more direct on the ground experience working with and facilitating groups of marginalized and diverse at risk youth.

The candidate was also most highly recommended by the youth interviewers.

I hope this helps.  Be well,

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