The personal is important to me

For most of them, it was medicine or business studies. "After I wasn't really sure which direction I wanted to go in professionally, I first decided to do a voluntary social year with the Red Cross," says Michelle. A decision that opened up new perspectives for her, as the Jennersdorf native has remained loyal to the healthcare sector ever since.

She is studying for a Bachelor's degree in Health Management and Health Promotion at the University of Applied Sciences Burgenland - a unique programme in Austria. "I work directly with patients in the emergency services in my free time. In the degree programme, we combine topics from the health sciences with management tasks. I am currently studying to become a care home manager. I could very well imagine this area for my future career," says Michelle, because she really likes the contact with older people. "They have a lot to say and are grateful."

The personal touch is very important to her. "At my office in Jennersdorf, we're like a little family. I really enjoy working with these people. We trust each other blindly." Her commitment makes her proud and satisfied.

Michelle found the switch to distance learning due to the coronavirus pandemic particularly challenging during her studies. She really missed the personal contact with her fellow students.

Michelle also publicises her positive attitude towards Red Cross service through her Instagram channel and has already been able to inspire numerous young people - especially other young women - to volunteer. "At the beginning of my voluntary social year, me and a colleague were the only two women at our service centre. Now there are lots of us," she says happily.

Michelle will complete her studies next year.