Interviewing and Hiring a Student
The next step in recruiting an EL student is to review the candidates, conduct interviews and offer the opportunity to the student who is the best fit for your organization and your needs. Here are some best practices to keep in mind as you select an EL student:
- Ask for a resume and cover letter. The resume will outline their related skills and experience and provide examples of the student’s accomplishments that relate to the role. The cover letter will allow them to elaborate on what they can bring to the role and why they believe they are a good fit.
- You may want to ask for additional materials, such as writing samples, portfolios or other examples of work. Make sure that the work samples you request are related to the role. For example, if you are looking for help with graphic design, ask students to provide a portfolio of their design work instead of a writing sample.
- Invite candidates to an interview. Conduct these interviews like you would with potential new hires, but remember that this is a student seeking to learn and grow professionally through this opportunity.
- Ask candidates for references. Due to limited professional experience, references could be faculty members, peers, coaches, mentors and supervisors from part-time jobs.
- Issue an offer letter to the successful candidate that outlines the terms of employment, remuneration (if applicable) and start/end dates. Remember that you will have to complete other paperwork provided by the university to formalize the EL partnership.