«I want to become a doctor»

I came to Switzerland from Eritrea just over four years ago. My father was already here. First I had to find my way around and learn the language. I put together my application documents in the reception class.

Vocational school is very demanding, but I can cope.

My second year at school in Switzerland was the vocational preparation year. My teacher helped me a lot and took me to a careers fair. In the end, I had to decide whether I wanted to become a dental assistant or a healthcare specialist. I decided in favour of a dental assistant and after a second trial apprenticeship at my current training company, I opted for an apprenticeship with a federal certificate of competence.

I was unsure about the language. Now I care for elderly people in a municipal health centre for the elderly in Zurich and accompany them throughout the day. At the beginning, I got back pain from standing so much, but now I'm fine.

I have vocational school on two days. It's very demanding, but I keep up. I often study with my best friend from school - up to five hours a day at weekends. After my apprenticeship, I want to do the vocational baccalaureate and study medicine later on.