At first glance, it may seem unusual to get a degree in woodworking and then choose to study Marketing and Communication Support. Yet this move felt like a logical choice for me because I had always been interested in the business world.

The beginning

My school career began at Pegasus Ostend, where I studied "modern sciences" for the first two years and passed without difficulty. In the^third year, I decided to study "computer science", which was a nice subject but did not appeal to me enough. Although I didn't try very hard and didn't pay attention very often, I still passed and was allowed to transfer. Then in the^4th year I decided to study "economics" which I found very interesting and so in the^5th year I studied economics mathematics. Soon it was clear that I was struggling in math, physics and chemistry but I didn't want to give up. In the end, I was not successful and had to redo my^5th year. Since I wanted to work a little more with my hands, I chose to pursue "woodworking." 

The transition to a hands-on approach

After 5 years of ASO, it was clear that I needed a different approach. From day one in Woodworking, I knew this was the right choice. Our class was small only six students which made for a close-knit atmosphere. Our teacher was more than just a teacher; he felt like a friend. I passed the^5th year but in the ^6th year things were a little more difficult. I wasn't at school much, wasn't doing my best and I didn't feel like it anymore. I had not succeeded in the ^6th year and thought of going to work, but then I had second thoughts and decided to redo my year and get a diploma. I then did my ^6th year at the Atlas Atheneum in Gistel where I was the only one in the direction "TSO Wood". I had recovered and effortlessly obtained my diploma that year.

My internship

My first 6th grade year brought with it a new challenge: a month-long internship. No one knew beforehand exactly what to expect. Would the chosen internship fit what we had learned? Would I feel adequately prepared? Despite my limited prior knowledge. After all, I had only switched to woodworking in fifth year but the internship went surprisingly well.

My internship offered excellent supervision and gave me the opportunity to learn a lot. The practical experience I gained there gave me more self-confidence and a solid foundation of skills. After that month, I returned to school with a hefty dose of new knowledge and pride. By my second ^6th grade year, I already knew how things worked so I didn't feel stressed for my internship.

A diploma 

"Winners are not the people who never fail; they are the people who never give up."

By keeping myself strong and not giving up despite some setbacks, I eventually got my diploma. That moment marked not only the end of my high school days, but also the beginning of a new phase in my life.

I was faced with a choice: should I go straight to work, or continue studying? I didn't know what I would do, so I thought about it and finally decided to continue my studies and choose Marketing and Communication Support. From the moment I started this program, I felt I had made the right choice. To this day, I have not regretted my decision for one moment.

Conclusion

My journey from woodworking to Marketing and Communications Support may be unusual, but it reflects my personal growth and search for what really suits me. Every step of this process, from the hands-on experience in woodworking to my curiosity about the business world, has brought me where I am today. And I look to the future with enthusiasm.