Moldovan Students in Romania: Let’s Hear Their Story!
Moving to a new country, stepping into an unfamiliar workplace, and taking on the challenge of learning by doing. This is exactly what a group of Moldovan students experienced during their long-term apprenticeships in Miercurea Ciuc, Romania, as part of the IN-VET project. Their stories are not just about adapting to a new environment but also about building skills, resilience, and connections that will shape their futures.
Meet Marina and Dumitru, two students from Moldova’s Briceni district, who were placed at the Gambrinus restaurant. Marina works as a waiter, juggling a packed schedule from noon to late evening. “Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest,” she shares. “The terrace and indoor tables are always full, and we’re constantly on the move.” Dumitru, her colleague, takes on the role of a bartender, mixing cocktails, serving guests, and occasionally stepping onto the terrace to assist during the rush hours.
Their days are long, but they embrace the challenge with enthusiasm. “Even though it’s busy, we enjoy the interaction with people. When there’s a quiet moment, we talk and connect, which makes the experience more enjoyable,” Marina reflects.
For these students, the apprenticeship is about more than just work—it’s about discovering new skills and adapting to professional environments. During their monitoring visit, the Moldova’s National Agency for Quality Assurance in Education and Research observed how these placements are tailored to meet the students’ preferences and needs. “They’ve been heard regarding their preferred practice places, and they’re satisfied with their experiences so far,” they noted, adding that the students show genuine interest and eagerness to learn. “They’ve taken on tasks they’ve never done before and built great relationships with their colleagues.” The students are not only learning technical skills but also mastering soft skills like time management, communication, and teamwork. Employers have also been impressed.
The success of these apprenticeships is a two-way street. Employers like those at Gambrinus benefit from the energy and fresh perspective the students bring. Meanwhile, the students gain invaluable hands-on experience that bridges the gap between their studies and real-world applications.
For Marina and Dumitru, the busy days at Gambrinus are shaping them into skilled professionals ready to tackle future challenges. For their employers, the partnership is a productive and rewarding collaboration.
This story is a glimpse into the impact of the IN-VET project, which facilitates international apprenticeships for students from Moldova, Georgia, and Armenia. By placing students in real-world environments, the project helps them gain the skills and confidence needed to thrive in their careers.
For the students, these experiences are not just a stepping stone but a leap toward independence and professional growth. And for us, their journey is an inspiring reminder of the power of learning, adaptability, and cross-border collaboration.
So, next time you’re at a bustling restaurant, think of Marina and Dumitru—balancing plates, crafting cocktails, and embracing the opportunities that come their way. It’s not just work; it’s their story of growth, grit, and success.
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