Internship Interview

Internship Interview

Conducted: 22 May 2016

Interviewer: Elizabeth Daley

Interview Subject: Martha Dodson

Synopsis: An interview with a youth development employee of First United Methodist Church regarding her work.

What are the personality traits/work habits needed to succeed in this career field?

You need commitment, faith, and a sense of humor.

What is the chain of command/accountability/responsibility here? 

Minister

V

Committees

V

Youth Director

V

Youth Volunteers/Other Youth Employees (like Ms. Martha, my mentor)

What are some oral, written and non-verbal communication activities used in this career field?

I email, write notes, and talk!

What are the current/future trends in this career field?

Churches are looking for younger employees to fill jobs. They like their enthusiasm. Churches are also using more technology: social media, etc.

What career options/tracts are available in this career field?  Which tracts do you recommend?  Any tips on how to get on that tract?

You can be a youth coordinator, director of Christian education, associate minister, or youth minister. Just stay enthusiastic!

What are your personal likes and dislikes regarding your career field?

I like everything about it… except for dealing with the chain of command sometimes.

Which professional organization do you recommend I join?  Which trade journal publication should I read for current news and updates in career field?

I don’t know about an organization, but reading the Advocate (a Methodist magazine) or subscribing to district letters could help you find a job.

What steps do you recommend I take between now and college graduation to be competitive in this career field (ex. Clubs, part-time jobs, internships, co-ops, college courses, computer training, contacts, etc.)?

You can intern at churches more, and join Christian organizations in college.

What’s your favorite memory as a worker in this field?

Once, when working with the puppet ministry, all the kids made their own puppets with things from the dollar store and wrote their own script for the show.