It’s that time of year again. Current Peer Group Leaders have stopped by the health classrooms to inform the sophomores on how to be selected as a Peer Group Leader. Tensions are high as each candidate reviews what they need to hand in and complete by an approaching deadline. The whole process really isn’t challenging, however after you fill out your recommendation teachers and your application, you must prepare for the interview. With around only 15 girls and 15 boys accepted out of over 100 applicants, the tensions are high as your friends discuss who is going to apply.  If you’re like me and have had both of your siblings in the program, you may feel some pressure from your parents and your family to get accepted into the program.  The pressure only continues to grow. Here’s some suggestions to survive this rewarding process.

First every candidate must get two signatures from teachers they have had in the high school who they feel represent them well.  As well as signatures from your two representative teachers, you have to get your parent’s signature so that they know that you are interviewing for this position.  Once all of this is done, you start to worry about the interview.  After I handed in my application, I started to become very nervous.  The thought of sitting in front of three Peer Group Leaders and two advisers was frightening. However, I started to realize that if other people are capable of answering a few questions then I was capable too.  When the time of your interview comes, just remember to relax.  Make sure you are wearing an appropriate outfit and walk in with your head held high because you do deserve this position. Also, remember to not show the interviewers that you are nervous. Talk clearly and confidently and make sure to touch-upon your qualities and values that separate you from the other candidates.  

Last of all, remember that this is an important experience that will only help you in the future.  No matter what the outcome is, you know that you tried your hardest and remember to congratulate the leaders and alternates.  As that shows that you are mature and responsible.  Best of luck to all the applicants and hopefully you will receive a positive result.