When I graduated, I was terrified no one would take me seriously.

At just 20 years old—with a master’s degree in hand—I felt like districts would brush me off because of my age. I didn’t look like the seasoned teacher they were expecting. I was convinced they’d see me as inexperienced, too young, or not ready for the demands of the classroom.

Fast forward to spring break that same year: I flew from Oregon to New Mexico for two teaching interviews—and both districts offered me the position during the interview.

Here’s exactly how it happened—and what I did to stand out in the teacher interview process.

I Was Scared No One Would Hire Me

As the youngest student teacher in my program, I constantly questioned whether schools would take me seriously. I worried that my age would be a red flag—that I looked more like a student than a teacher.

In fact, I originally decided to focus on working with younger students because I felt I was too close in age to older students. I thought it would be safer. But something inside me knew I had to stop hiding and start showing up as the confident educator I was trained to be.

Turning My Biggest Weakness Into My Superpower

While scrolling through general interview tips (because there wasn’t much out there specifically for teachers at the time), I came across one game-changing piece of advice:

“Turn your biggest weakness into your biggest strength.”

That sentence stuck with me. I realized I’d been playing small, letting my fear of being “too young” hold me back instead of using it to my advantage.

I sat down and made a list of all the reasons a district would want to hire someone my age:

• I was trained in new, research-based best practices
  
  
• I was a quick learner and easily adapted to new systems
  
  
• I genuinely thrived on feedback and professional growth
  
  
• I brought an energy and excitement that’s hard to teach
  
  

Once I reframed my mindset, I started sharing these things in my interviews—and the confidence shift was instant. The more I believed in myself, the more my interviewers did too.

How I Prepared for My Teaching Interviews

I didn’t just wing it. I wanted to show up authentically and with intention—so I prepped in a way that helped me feel calm, confident, and connected to each school.

1. I Researched the Schools

Instead of sending out 20+ generic applications, I only applied to three districts that truly aligned with my values and vision for teaching. I studied each district’s mission statement and made a point to reference their values in my answers.

This helped me stand out as someone who already belonged in their school community.

2. I Used the REMI Method to Answer Questions

To avoid freezing or giving generic responses, I followed a simple formula I now teach to other educators:

• Restate the question
  
  
• Explain your answer with a short story or example
  
  
• Match it to the mission or values of the district
  
  
• Share your unique It factor—what sets you apart
  
  

This structure helped me tell stories with confidence and clarity—without rambling or getting stuck.

The Moment I Knew I Nailed It

During my first interview, I noticed members of the hiring committee smiling and nodding at each other after I answered their questions. It felt like they were seeing something they liked.

In the second interview—at a different district—it felt like I was chatting with a best friend. The conversation flowed, and I felt completely in the zone.

Both interviews ended with on-the-spot job offers. I was in shock—but also proud of how far I’d come by simply believing in myself and being prepared.

Biggest Takeaways From Landing My First Teaching Job

Looking back, here’s what made the biggest difference for me—and what I now share with the new teachers I coach:

✅ Apply to the right districts from the start

Don’t waste your time applying everywhere. Focus on districts that align with your values, teaching style, and long-term goals.

✅ Use your “weakness” as your strength

Whatever you're worried about—your age, your lack of experience, your background—it can become your superpower if you frame it correctly.

✅ Do your research and lean into your passion

Don’t try to sound like every other candidate. Be yourself. Show them you’re prepared, passionate, and ready to grow with their team.

Ready to Land Your Dream Teaching Job?

If you're preparing for interviews and demo lessons, you're not alone. I’ve helped new and first-year teachers across the world land their dream jobs with confidence.

Here’s what to do next:

👉 Grab the FREE Teacher Interview Guide — My top tips for standing out and nailing your interviews
👉 Work with me to land your dream job

You’ve got this. The perfect school is out there waiting for YOU—and with the right strategy and mindset, you’ll find it.