I signed up for a VIPKID account and completed the online application. I was immediately sent to a page that asked for an interview in the next three days. I didn't feel ready for an interview since the next three days involved my first wedding anniversary plans. I felt rushed. But I scheduled an interview because I am looking for online teaching opportunities. I ended up not having enough time to prepare. I opted to reschedule the interview, which is an option that VIPKID offers for every interview. Once I rescheduled, I received an email that stated it was perfectly fine to reschedule, but to understand that rescheduling could affect if I was hired. I immediately regretted rescheduling and wished they had been up front about this when they offered the option to reschedule. I also wished that I knew before I completed the application that I would only have 2 to 3 days to prepare a professional area in my home that looked like a classroom with proper lighting, sound, and props. Although it was stressful, I was able to prepare. Once I made it through the first interview, I was told that I passed the interview and what my starting salary would be. I received a 92/100 for the first interview. In hearing these comments from the interviewer, I thought I was being hired and was very excited. To be fair, English is not the interviewer’s first language, so I could have misunderstood her. Next, I had to study for a quiz and pass the quiz with an 80%. I was not given my score after the quiz but was emailed that I passed the quiz. Oddly enough, a few days later I received an email stating that I didn't pass the quiz and needed to re-take it. I was confused, so I found the email that stated I had passed and sent it to the lady who stated I had failed. Later that evening she sent me an email stating that I did indeed pass the quiz. This whole exchange was confusing and a bit stressful, because now I thought I would need to take the time to study and retake the quiz, plus prepare for the mock 1 class, get ready for my anniversary, and keep up with mom duties. Thankfully, the matter was quickly resolved. The night before my mock 2 class, I was called from a restricted number, which I thought was peculiar, but I answered. It was Jessie, from China calling me about my next interview and reminding me not to be late. Be on time! Her English was not perfect, but understandable.
The next step was to learn two more lessons for a mock class that I would teach to a mentor. I had two to three days to prepare. Since I did well on the first interview and thought I was hired, I was excited for the Mock 1 class. The mentor was a few minutes late and I began wondering if the session was going to be cancelled. When she showed up, she looked annoyed and I got the feeling that she didn't want to be there with me in this moment in time. She looked tired. So I thought maybe she was having a rough day. I decided I would just go with the flow regardless. I taught her the two mock lessons. She wasn't positive in her feedback. At the beginning of the interview she just seemed annoyed, but towards the end of the interview she softened. I was grateful when the mock class was finally over. In her evaluation email she mentioned three positive aspects of my teaching, but then went on and on about my negative aspects. At this point I was feeling discouraged with the whole process and began some online research. In my hunting, I found out that I had not been actually hired and that I had to pass three interviews before being hired. I did pass the mock 2 interview, but was not given a score this time.
I prepared for the third mock class. I showed up and the mock 3 mentor promptly showed up on time. She was friendly and polite with a beautiful smile and demeanor. The mock class started out great, but we began to have technical difficulties. The sound was not working correctly. She graciously rescheduled the mock 3 class. She said she didn't want any technical issues to keep me from passing. So I was given three more days to study the lesson plan.
The last mock class day arrived and I was ready, but nervous. The mentor, Ashley, showed up on time and was delightful. She had a bright smile that was welcoming. I taught the lesson. Ashley was very positive and informative. She gave me positive feedback and some constructive criticism. I appreciated her spirit and encouragement. She was effective in creating a comfortable atmosphere.
The next day, I received an email stating "Unsuccessful Mock Class: Account Deactivation". My stomach dropped. I felt sad. I was not given a reason as to why I failed.
