Why it pays to be courageous

Ina Schneider has made it!

The former participant was trained at PlanB and now works as a childcare assistant in a company in Cologne. She knows the worries and fears of new students during their first time at PlanB. In this interview, she tells you how she managed to make a new start in her career!

How did you experience the first few days of your apprenticeship?

Ms. Schneider: "In any case, the first few days were very exciting and challenging. I first had to find a way to relearn how to learn. It was a lot of new things at once. On the one hand, there were the participants I didn't know. On the other hand, there was the subject matter and the new rules at school. For me, this training was vital at the time. I had lost my job twice in a row for health reasons and was on the verge of Hartz IV financially. "

Did you have fears and anxieties?

Ms. Schneider: "Yes, I didn't know the lecturers or the school. I had existential fears and wondered whether I would still be able to cope with the demands of a new job at over 50."

Were you able to overcome these insecurities?

Ms. Schneider: "They were taken away from me because you could see success after a while. Thanks to the good grades and the lively exchange with the other students, I slowly regained hope of doing well in the exams."

 

Did you follow the lessons well? And if not, were you able to ask the lecturers and other students for help? Ms. Schneider: "To be honest, I found it difficult to keep up with the lessons. But my lecturer was always available to answer my questions. The participants also supported each other. Because everyone had the same goal, which was to get a good degree."

Did you feel welcome and supported?

Ms. Schneider: "I felt welcome and supported right from the start because I had someone to talk to at all times. I received help from the lecturer and the whole PlanB team with questions about the lessons and other topics. Thanks to their support, I not only quickly found a connection, but also the courage to reorient myself. I started to believe again that I could find a secure job that would bring me joy and appreciation."

Did you quickly find your way to the other participants?

Ms. Schneider: "Yes, the contact was made quickly. We were a diverse group from different nationalities. Everyone wanted to graduate quickly and supported each other. For example, with homework and exam preparation. This made learning much easier."

How did you find the atmosphere between the trainees and the Plan B team?

Ms. Schneider: "I found the atmosphere to be friendly, on an equal footing and helpful. Above all, the understanding and open ear of the entire team at all times created a familiar and trusting atmosphere."

How did they help you find a job?

Ms. Schneider: "PlanB gave me tips on how to apply and corrected my existing documents, such as my CV. Everyone took the time to look for employers and contact them.

What is your conclusion?

Ms. Schneider: "My conclusion is that courage is rewarded. Courage to learn something new again. I would like to say thank you. Because with the support of PlanB, I was able to make a new start in my mid-50s. I have found a job that allows me to work with children. My work is appreciated. After two years, I got a permanent contract, earn good money and my colleagues are very friendly. It's worth having the courage to continue your education, no matter how old you are."