The Hegi Family Career Development Center teamed with Amegy Bank to sponsor an interview panel Wednesday afternoon in the Hughes-Trigg Student Center.

Amegy’s own Holly Witter joined Rosalyn Fitch of U.T. Southwestern, Kimberly Kunz of Superior Search Staffing, Maria Torres of Abbot Laboratories and Russ Yaquinto of Right Management Consultants on the panel. The group addressed a range of topics that may arise before, during or after an interview.

“Think of the interview as a 90-second commercial,” Yaquinto said, “because you’re there to sell yourself.”

Panelists discussed how students should set themselves apart from other applicants and make the best impression on potential employers.

“Learn more about yourself and the contributions you can make to the organization,” Fitch said.

Yaquinto illustrated what he calls the “rule of two.”

“Keep any answer or response you have to two minutes or less,” he said. “This gives you ample time if you’re being succinct about what you’re saying.”

The panelists answered questions from students in the audience, including the best way to make initial contact with a company. Fitch reminded students not to be afraid to call and ask for help.

“I’ve found that the most information [about an organization] comes from the secretary to the president or the CEO,” she said. “We’re human beings and we want to help each other.”Representatives from the SMU Career Center hope to have more student traffic flow through their offices on the main floor of Hughes-Trigg.

“We would like to see more students take advantages of all the services provided by the center,” said Assistant Director Marva McGrew.

Students are encouraged to stop by the Hegi Family Career Development Center or call to set up an appointment at (214) 768-2266.