Application period begins: June 2nd – June 6th

K-Ching Program

Application period begins:

June 2nd – June 6th

K-Ching stands for Kids Creating Harmony in Neighborhood Growth. This New Columbia program offers valuable internship and volunteer service opportunities for youth ages 12 to 18. Designed to engage and empower local youth, K-Ching provides a four-week summer placement with one of our campus partner programs. Participants gain hands-on experience, develop peer support networks, and give back to their community—all while earning a $300 stipend for their service.

Objective/learning goal of prep curriculum: Through this orientation, K-Ching applicants will learn essential job readiness skills, including what an application and resumes are, how to present themselves professionally, how to request and complete an employment application, interview tips, and what steps to take after the interview

Introduction:

Section 1 - The Basics

What is a job application?

Applications are form(s) or paper which indicates (your) interest in a particular place of employment or position within a company. Typically requests personal identification information, such as name, address and phone number, as well as a history of job experience.  Applications can range from a simple one-page to a multi-page document.

You are what’s called the applicant, the person filling out and completing the application.

Why do employers use job applications?

Many employers use applications as a way of standardizing the information they obtain from all job-seekers, including some things that you would not normally put on your resume. (Will discuss these toward the end)Your goal is to complete the application as completely and honestly as you can — all the time remembering that the application is a key marketing tool for you in the job-hunting process. Remember that some employers will use your application as a basis for deciding whether to call you for an interview.

Step #1

You request an application from the place you want to work.  Check to see if the application needs to be completed there, or preferably, you can take it home.  This allows you sufficient time to complete it neatly and proofread.  It is also recommended that you take two blank copies, in the even you mess up on one and can use for practice.

BONUS TIP: Always be dressed and groomed appropriately when picking up or dropping off an application. This is when you make your first impression!  No matter the job, managers are more likely to hire someone with a professional appearance.  Also, in some instances, you may be asked to give an on-the-spot interview.  In this case you will already be prepared.  There is a saying “Stay ready, to keep from having to get ready”.

Complete the application.  Some employers will ask you to complete it right then and there.

Interview.

BONUS TIP: Arrive prepared with the information you need. Be sure to bring your completed applications and you letter of recommendation, signed parent consent and photograph release form.

Important!

recommendations

Section 1- Application Basics continued

Now that you have the application in hand you want to do the following:

• Read and follow instructions carefully.  Always take a few minutes to review the entire application.  Think of the application as your first test in following instructions. Some applications ask for information differently — and all have specific spaces in which you are expected to answer questions.
 
• Complete the application as neatly as possible.  Handwriting is just as important here as it is in school, if not more so.  Neatness and legibility count; the application is a reflection of you.
 
• Use only a blue or black pen if completing it by hand.  Don’t fold, bend, or otherwise mar the application. Or complete online (will discuss this further in Lesson/Unit 2 – Section 4 – Online Applications)
 
• Don’t leave any blanks.  One of the reasons employers have you complete an application is because they want the same information from all job applicants.  This is also in place to help insure equity.  If there are questions that do not apply to you, simply respond with “not applicable,” or “n/a.  However,” Do not write “see resume” when completing the application (but you can certainly attach your resume to the application).
 
• Provide references.   To be discussed in further detail within Lesson/Unit 2 – Section 2 – References.  
 
• Proofread your application BEFORE submitting it. Check for any errors, i.e. typos and misspellings
• Pick your references carefully — Employers want to see that there are people who will provide objective information about you to them.  
 
• Where do you get references? From past employers, to teachers, to family friends. Most young job-seekers have a mix of professional and character references, while more experienced job-seekers focus on professional references who can speak of your skills and accomplishments.
 
• Professional references are those individuals such as employers or co-workers, or teachers
 
• Personal references are those individuals such as co-workers or friends, but should NOT be family members.  
 
• Once you have selected your references, you want to prepare a list with each person’s name, job title or relation to you and their contact information (phone number and address).
 
• In ALL cases, make sure you ask (permission) if they are willing to be a reference for you before you list them.
 
• Keep in mind each employer decides what types of references they want and will accept.  Some may only want professional references.

Here, we will review key sections of applications; Personal Information, Position applied for, Employment Information, Education, and References.  We will introduce the concept of a resume and provide sample resume for students to review.

• Application Deadline: Please note that the applications are due on Friday June 13th. You can return your application to the Resident Services office at 9022 N Newman. our office hours are Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m.  5:00 p.m.
 
• List Personal Information: Name, address, grade, city/state/zip code, phone number, emergency contact phone numbers and any allergies or dietary restrictions.
 
• Position Applied For: Information provided here will include: the title of the job you are applying for, hours/days available to work and date you are available to start work.
 
• Parent Signature: Your parent or guardian must sign the application. If the application is not signed by a parent or guardian. You will be eligible to work.
 
• Recommendation Letter: All application must include a completed recommendation letter. This form can be completed by a coach, teacher, principal, counselor, aunt, uncle or guardian.
 
• Parent Consent Form: This form explains the program to your parent. It details when and how you will be paid. It must be signed by your parent before you begin working.
 
• Permission to Photograph: This form should be completed by your parent or guardian giving Home Forward permission to take your photo at your work site.
 
• Personal Biography: This form helps us get to know a little more about the applicant. Please complete this form. If you would like to be consider for a K-Ching leadership position please submit two recommendation letters.
 
• Don’t forget to sign your application!

Download Here

If you prefer to submit your documents in person, please download and complete this application. Make sure your submission follows the provided structure and includes all required information before turning it in.

The application period is open from June 2nd to June 6th. Applications will only be accepted during this time.

Application for Students Ages 12 - 18

Application for K-Ching Youth Employment Summer Program

Application period begins: June 2nd – June 6th

Application for Students Ages 12 - 18

Application for K-Ching Youth Employment Summer Program

Section 5

A job interview

A job interview is a meeting arranged by an employer/recruiter with an applicant, used to evaluate whether the applicant is suitable for employment for an available position within the company.  Job interviews precede (come before) a person being hired.  This is most often the main form of the assessment process.  

Successful Interviewing (Top-10 Tips)

1. Dress for Success.

Wear professional business clothes. (Insert brief discussion on what constitutes professional attire). Have proper hygiene. (Insert brief discussion on how this can be a barrier to gaining employment). Have a neat appearance.  This includes pressed/ironed clothing, shirts tucked in, and belts worn.  Also, avoid strong perfumes and colognes. (Insert brief discussion on scent free zones in workplaces).

It is best practice to arrive 10 – 15 minutes early.  Prior to interview, you want to verify where you are going and how long it will take you to get there.  This will vary based on your mode of transportation.  Allow for delays.  It is best practice to travel to the location the day before so you are familiar with where you are going.  Have a backup plan.

It is ok to be excited about the job.  The employers want employees who are passionate about the work they do.  Be yourself, just remember to remain professional.

It is completely normal to be nervous in an interview; just try not to let them overpower your interview.  Make good eye contact and maintain a calm, clear speaking voice.

 Relax.  Sit naturally.  However, DON’T slouch or lean on the interviewer’s desk.  You want to AVOID chewing gum, or fidgeting.

Start with a smile.  Greet them with a firm handshake.  Be polite to everyone you meet.  Turn OFF your cell phone(s).  

You want to answer the questions they are asking, so if you didn’t quite hear the whole question or don’t understand something, don’t be afraid to ask them to please repeat the question or ask for clarification.

Highlight your past experiences and accomplishments and tie those into how they can help you contribute to the company.

Avoid speaking about personal or financial troubles or family matters. You do not want to get too personal.

Don’t just hang around and hover around the office.   Shake the interviewer’s hand, reiterate your interest in the position, thank them for their time and giving you opportunity to interview, and then leave.  

Interview Questions

One of the best ways to prepare for an interview is to anticipate questions the interviewer may ask. This will allow you to give thoughtful and organized answers during your interview.  Here we will go over some general questions that are typically asked.

1. ​Why do you want this job/to work here?

You want to provide an answer that lets the employer know you have given this some thought and that you are not just randomly applying for open positions.

This is a brief summary about who you are as a student. What are you studying in school? What are you good at?  

Research some facts about the program. When did the program start at New Columbia?

Summarize your experience in the area you are applying for, or the skills you have that qualify you for the job.  

Most of you are still pursuing your education, so you may be planning to move into high school or college.  

Be mindful this question DOES NOT mean you have the job yet. This question helps us know your availability to work. Please let the interview panel know if your family will be taking a summer vacation or if you have summer school or you have another summer job.

Ask about next steps to hiring process and their timeline for notifying those who have interviewed.

Section 6

After the Interview

Immediately after the interview, it is suggested to send the interviewer a thank you card/note.  This will help you stand out as a contender even after the interview is over and keep you on their mind.  You can also submit a thank you email as well.  Suggested to send within 24 hrs. after the interview.

We will provide you with the date when we will call you to let you know if you have been hired for a K-Ching position. If you haven’t heard from us by __________ please call Michael Mangum at 971-400-0839

If you didn’t receive a job offer, consider asking for feedback about how your interview went and how it could have been better. This will provide you with information on how to have a more successful interview next time.

Even if you didn’t get the job, try not to get discouraged. Like any new skill, you need to practice to get better. Interviewing is the same. The more you do it, the easier it will become.

Immediately after the interview, it is suggested to send the interviewer a thank you card/note.  This will help you stand out as a contender even after the interview is over and keep you on their mind.  You can also submit a thank you email as well.  Suggested to send within 24 hrs. after the interview.

We will provide you with the date when we will call you to let you know if you have been hired for a K-Ching position. If you haven’t heard from us by __________ please call Michael Mangum at 971-400-0839

If you didn’t receive a job offer, consider asking for feedback about how your interview went and how it could have been better. This will provide you with information on how to have a more successful interview next time.

Even if you didn’t get the job, try not to get discouraged. Like any new skill, you need to practice to get better. Interviewing is the same. The more you do it, the easier it will become.

Bring Your Application To: Resident Services office
9022 N Newman Ave Portland, OR 97203
office hours: Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m.

Need help or have questions? We’re here for you!
📞 Michael Mangum – (971) 334-6967
📞 Rebeca Murcia – Español (503) 943-5648

Download Application Here
Descargar en español

If you prefer to submit your documents in person, please download and complete this application. Make sure your submission follows the provided structure and includes all required information before turning it in.

The application period is open from June 2nd to June 6th. Applications will only be accepted during this time.

Application Deadline: Please note that the applications are due on June 6th.