Students in East Rockaway High School’s Virtual Enterprise class took the first steps toward building their class firm this week, interviewing with ERHS faculty and staff members for positions within their new company.

Students arrived during their regular class period dressed in business attire and ready to put their best foot forward. Staff members conducted the sessions as they would professional job interviews, asking students about their strengths and weaknesses, problem-solving strategies, approaches to workplace conflict and the skills they could bring to the firm.

Students also discussed the positions they hoped to hold and why they believed they were a good fit, while sharing their ideas about the type of business the class could create. Throughout the interviews, students demonstrated strong preparation and communication skills while allowing their individual personalities to come through.

With interviews complete, participating staff members will submit written evaluations of each candidate. Business teacher Ms. Altamore will use their assessments to determine the firm’s leadership and staff positions, which will be announced tomorrow.

Now in its second year at East Rockaway High School, Virtual Enterprise gives juniors and seniors an immersive introduction to entrepreneurship and the professional world. Two students from last year’s inaugural class have returned for a second year.

The curriculum transforms the classroom into a functioning virtual business, with students taking on roles within their company and working collaboratively to develop and implement a comprehensive business plan. Throughout the year, they manage day-to-day operations, produce deliverables, analyze performance, make strategic decisions and respond to evolving business challenges, while their teacher serves as a consultant.

With interviews behind them and job assignments just ahead, the next question is a big one: What kind of company will this year’s Virtual Enterprise students build?