I applied online. The process took 2 months. I interviewed at Teach for America (Hanover, NH) in Sep 2012
Interview
I skipped over the phone interview and went right to the final day interview. It started early in the morning--12 applicants and 2 recruiters in the room. We first went around and did our lesson plans with the interviewees and recruiters pretending to be students. We then broke into 2 groups to do the group interviews--we were asked to analyze a scenario in a school and what should be done to address the problems, etc. We then received a role play scenario to prepare for (e.g. you play teacher and recruiter plays reluctant principal), and we signed up for time slots to do the individual interview, which involved typical interview questions and the role play. I remember being asked to elaborate upon one of my past experiences, why I wanted to join TFA, and how I stay organized. During the entire interview, the recruiter was typing down basically everything I said while responding in a very friendly manner.
I applied online. The process took 4 months. I interviewed at Teach for America (Phoenix, AZ) in Mar 2009
Interview
Started with a phone interview. Questions regarding how you handle stress, organization, you beliefs about education, background, etc. Interviewer was easy going and friendly. 2nd interview was an all-day process at the regional office. 9 hours- the morning was all individual work and group role playing. I took an assessment, role played a school scenario in a group of four (they were looking for collaborative skills, I believe), and presented a 5 minute lesson to the other 11 interviewees and 4 evaluators. Break for lunch and then I waited until I was called for the one on one interview. They asked about my educational background, organizational skills, motivations for joining the corps, and my visions for my own future as well as that in education.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
I really don't remember. They really want people who are organized, passionate, work well with a group, and driven to make positive change.
I applied online. I interviewed at Teach for America
Interview
The entire TFA application process is long and drawn out, but understandably so because they want to make sure you are truly a good fit for the corps. I was offered a final interview without a phone interview. The final interview was slightly nerve wracking--I was most concerned about the sample lesson, but that ended up being the easiest portion of the day. The two interviewers and other applicants were very enthusiastic about participating in the lesson. Much of the interview felt conversational, which was a nice surprise. During the group activity, they want to see that you are engaged and have ideas to contribute, so be vocal.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
I was slightly taken aback by the role play scenario during the individual interview. In the situation, I was a teacher who wanted to take my children on a field trip but the assistant principal constantly denied the request; I was asked how I would handle this situation.