At The Aquinas Institute of Rochester, preparing students for college and life beyond high school goes far beyond the classroom. One of the most impactful examples of this commitment is our Sophomore Mock Interview Program, a real-world experience that helps students build confidence, professionalism, and essential communication skills, all with the support of our incredible alumni community.
Real-World Experience That Makes a Real Difference
For many sophomores, these mock interviews are their first exposure to a professional interview setting. Students arrive dressed professionally, resumes in hand, and ready to articulate their strengths, goals, and interests. Through this experience, students gain:
- Increased confidence in speaking with adults and professionals
- Practice answering thoughtful, real-world interview questions
- Constructive feedback on communication, body language, and presentation
- A better understanding of professional expectations
These interviews are about more than preparation for college, they’re about preparing students for life. Experiences like this help ensure Aquinas students are truly College Prepared. Life Ready.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
What sets Aquinas apart is our intentional focus on experiential learning. Programs like Sophomore Mock Interviews are woven into the student experience because we believe education should prepare students not just academically, but personally and professionally.
From leadership development and service opportunities to career exploration and mentorship, Aquinas students are consistently given opportunities to grow, reflect, and apply what they’re learning in meaningful ways. This holistic approach is a defining benefit of an Aquinas education, and why families often cite as a reason they choose AQ.
Alumni Giving Back and Staying Connected
A key reason the Sophomore Mock Interviews are so impactful is the involvement of our alumni. Each year, Aquinas proudly welcomes alumni back to campus to serve as interviewers for our students.
Our alumni bring real-world insight from their own college and career journeys, offering guidance, encouragement, and honest feedback. Just as importantly, their presence reinforces something special about Aquinas: once you’re part of the AQ family, you’re always part of it.
This continued alumni engagement is another powerful benefit of sending your student to Aquinas. It creates meaningful connections between past and present students and shows our sophomores what it looks like to carry Aquinas values into the world.
Want to Get Involved as an Aquinas Alumnus?
We are always excited to welcome alumni who want to give back and stay connected. If you’re an Aquinas graduate interested in participating in programs like Sophomore Mock Interviews, or other alumni engagement opportunities, please visit our Alumni Involvement page to learn more and get connected.
Considering Aquinas? Come See It for Yourself
If you’re exploring school options, we invite you to visit our campus and experience it firsthand. From innovative academic programs and wide range of athletics to meaningful real-world experiences and a supportive faith-based community, Aquinas offers an environment where students are challenged and supported.
To schedule a visit or learn more, we encourage you to connect with our Enrollment Office and see everything Aquinas has to offer. Give us a call at (585) 254-2020 x1071 or Plan A Visit today.
Be sure to check out the full photo Gallery from our Sophomore Mock Interviews to see our students and alumni in action!