Middle School Students Practice Life Skills Through Annual Archaeology Interview Project

Each fall, grade 6 students in Rian Otto’s history class step into the role of professional archaeologists, applying what they’ve learned about the field in a simulated job interview experience. The project is a long-standing tradition in Mrs. Otto’s classroom, guiding students through creating a resume, researching career requirements, and participating in mock interviews with parent volunteers who act as members of a fictional archaeology firm, Seekers International.

As part of their hands-on experience, grade 6 students also learned to use AI responsibly by utilizing it to generate job descriptions related to various roles in archaeology. This exercise allowed them to explore different career paths and understand the skills and qualifications needed for each position. By critically evaluating the AI-generated information, students gained insights into the significance of accuracy and ethics in using technology.

Before the interviews, grade 6 students dive into research on the education and training needed to become an archaeologist, along with the field methods used to excavate, analyze, and preserve artifacts. As part of the lesson, they imagine themselves as accomplished 35-year-old professionals in the field, crafting resumes and preparing thoughtful responses to five interview questions given by Middle School parents.

“I’m so grateful for our parent volunteers who serve as interviewers,” Mrs. Otto said. “Their participation transforms this lesson into something truly meaningful. Grade 6 students have the chance to present themselves in a professional way and that experience remains with them.”

On interview day, the classroom atmosphere shifts as grade 6 students arrive dressed professionally, shaking hands, maintaining eye contact, and answering questions with growing confidence.

The project is a creative approach to learning a practical skill, turning a history unit into an opportunity for lifelong growth. “The poise and professionalism these grade 6 students show is remarkable,” Mrs. Otto said. “I’ve had high schoolers tell me they remembered these lessons when interviewing for their first real job.”