Queanbeyan and Karabar High School students had the opportunity to interview a number of local professionals, including this reporter, as part of the career development day.

It was a strange experience for to be the interviewee, not the interviewer. To be asked the questions, rather than being the one doing the asking.

However, partnership broker and event organiser Paula Van de Heide said it was a beneficial experience for students and she was thrilled by the number of local businesses who offered up their time.

"The bottom line with this event is to have relevant information to the students and also it's a chance for them to see what's in their own backyard," she said.

"I want our young people to see all the different industries and career pathways which are available in the Queanbeyan community."

Queanbeyan professionals represented on the day included a banker, real estate agent, clinical nurse educator, auditor, principle investigator, youth centre coordinator and teacher.

Earlier in the day, the students were taught practical strategies on job preparation, engaged in mock interviews and career conversations where they had one-on-one informal chats with professionals.

It's the first time the event has been run and is a precursor to the Nibblez at School Partnership Dinner on August 13 where local hospitality students will prepare a three-course dinner. Queanbeyan's local masterchef Rishi Desai will be the guest speaker for the event.