Your Field Placement interview is more than a requirement—it’s your first real step into your career as an Addiction and Mental Health Worker (AMHW). Think of it as your professional debut: a moment to show that you are prepared, capable, and genuinely passionate about making a difference. Agencies evaluate not only your skills but also your commitment, curiosity, and professionalism.

Field Placement is highly competitive. Other students across the GTA are seeking opportunities at the same agencies. Showing up prepared, professional, and confident can make the difference between securing your placement and missing out. Treat this interview as the career-launching opportunity it truly is.

Be Professional, Be Authentic, Be You

Agencies do not expect you to know everything—you are a student, and this is a learning experience. They want to see that you are teachable, willing to learn, take initiative, and grow as a professional. Show that you are open to guidance, receptive to feedback, and excited to develop your skills in a real-world environment.

At the same time, don’t forget to be authentic. Professionalism does not mean being robotic—let your personality, passion, and genuine interest in helping others shine through. Balancing professionalism with authenticity demonstrates confidence, self-awareness, and readiness to thrive in the field.

Preparing for the Interview

• Tailor your application: Submit a cover letter and resume specific to the agency and placement role, highlighting your skills, experience, and passion.
• Research the agency: Learn about their programs, services, and client population. Referencing this knowledge during the interview shows engagement and preparation.
• Demonstrate initiative: Prepare examples of how you’ve taken responsibility, solved problems, or contributed to a team.
• Prepare your schedule: Communicate any vacations or unavailability in advance.
• Practice professionalism and authenticity: Plan how to introduce yourself confidently, maintain eye contact, and engage positively and respectfully.

Field Placement Matching Process

The placement matching process is designed to connect students with potential agencies based on availability, student interests, and agency requirements.

Important: A match does not guarantee placement. Even if you have an interview, placement is not secured. Agencies may have limitations such as:

• Only being able to accept one student instead of two
• Choosing another candidate due to competitive considerations (other students from Centennial College or other colleges/university programs, other reason, etc.)

If a placement is not secured due to unprofessionalism:

• Students are automatically placed on Independent Search.

If a placement is not secured due to other circumstances (e.g., agency constraints or preference for another candidate):

• You will connect with your Field Placement Coordinator to determine if a second match is possible.
• If not, the student will be placed on Independent Search.

Please note: There is no guarantee of securing a second match, but students are encouraged to consult with their Field Placement Coordinator for guidance and next steps.

Takeaway: Treat interviews seriously—show up prepared, professional, and passionate. Your performance, professionalism, and preparation can directly impact your placement outcome.

Interview Logistics

• Receiving Your Match: Students are notified via MyCentennial email with the assigned agency and relevant details.
• Interview Timing: Typically scheduled between April and September. Check MyCentennial email 2–3 times daily to avoid missing updates.
• Connecting with the Agency: Students usually have 5 business days to connect. Failure to do so may result in reassignment or Independent Search.

Missed Interviews:

• Missed interviews result in placement on Independent Search.

Professional Communication Guidelines

• Email Platform: All communication with your placement agency must be sent from your MyCentennial email account. Personal email accounts are not permitted.
• Cc Requirement: Cc your Field Placement Coordinator on all correspondence. This ensures accountability and allows the Coordinator to track communication, remain informed, and provide support.
• Response Timeframe: If the agency contacts you, respond promptly and follow up within 72 hours.
• Accountability: Failure to respond or cc the Coordinator may result in placement on Independent Search.

Sample Email Template:

Subject: Field Placement Interview – [Your Name]
To: [Agency Contact Email]
Cc: [Field Placement Coordinator Email]

Dear [Agency Contact Name],

My name is [Your Name], an AMHW student at Centennial College. Thank you for agreeing to meet with me to discuss a potential placement opportunity at [Agency Name]. I am excited to contribute meaningfully to your team and the community members you serve.

Attached is my tailored cover letter and resume. I look forward to our conversation and learning more about supporting your team.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
AMHW Student, Centennial College
Student Number: [#######]

Post-Interview Steps

• Thank-You Email: Send within 24–48 hours to express appreciation and reinforce interest.
• Follow-Up Email: 1–2 weeks after the interview if no response, in consultation with your Field Placement Coordinator.

Checklist for Interview Success

✅ Submit tailored cover letter & resume within 5 business days of receiving your match
✅ Research agency programs, services, and population
✅ Be on time and professionally dressed
✅ Prepare examples demonstrating initiative, teamwork, and problem-solving
✅ Practice professionalism while remaining authentic
✅ Communicate any unavailability or vacation dates in advance
✅ Follow up promptly if contacted by the agency
✅ Send a thank-you email within 24–48 hours
✅ Send a follow-up email 1–2 weeks after the interview, if appropriate