Italy – Alin, from pupil to entrepreneur thanks to Salesian Vocational Training

07 April 2021

(ANS - Serravalle Scrivia) - Alin Cazacu is a young past pupil of the Salesian Vocational Training Center (VTC) of Serravalle Scrivia in the province of Alessandria, Piedmont. Thanks to his determination, his commitment, and the teachings received during his years as a student of the Salesian course in the Salesian VTC, he was able to fulfill his dream of starting his own business: he opened a pizzeria.

A serious preparation towards the world of work and the possibility of an internship in a firm so as to immediately put into practice what he had learned 'at his desk' were the keys to entering the world of work as a protagonist.

Today Alin is 27 years old and lives in Sardigliano. Three years ago - with his business partner and best friend - he opened the pizzeria “Il Quadrifoglio” in Cassano Spinola. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, they are only engaged in take-away, but the hope is to re-open the dining room to full capacity, since it had become a point of reference for the neighboring townspeople.

Alin attended the VTC course in Serravalle Scrivia as a sales assistant: “A friend of mine recommended it to me. He told me about a beautiful environment, useful for learning and being inserted into the world of work,” he says.

The training course led him first to do an internship in a clothing store, then to start working in a pizzeria as an employee.

“In the store, I put into practice the notions learned above all on how to approach customers, be polite and how to understand the needs of those in front of you. The course was very useful because they also taught me English - essential these days - and I was able to take the HACCP qualification for preparing and serving food and drinks, which came in handy later, saving time and money. Finally, I have perfected the theoretical knowledge in internship: theory and practice for a complete formation.”

The vocational school staff explain: “The course, completely free, includes 300 hours of internship, in collaboration with the commercial activities of the area, especially the outlet (the largest in Italy) in the third year of attendance, after the first two in which supplementary vocational subjects are taught.”

Depending on the chosen address, the subjects taught change: "Sales techniques, cash management, organization of the point of sale ... in addition to English, Russian and business Chinese, languages required for dealing with customers who arrive in Serravalle.”

Thus, after a few years as an employee, Alin and his friend decided to go on their own. Now he bakes and serves pizzas and can't wait to go back to setting the tables for all the customers who have learned to know him, appreciate his professionalism and taste his pizzas.

InfoANS

ANS - “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana” is a on-line almost daily publication, the communication agency of the Salesian Congregation enrolled in the Press Register of the Tibunal of Rome as n 153/2007.

This site also uses third-party cookies to improve user experience and for statistical purposes. By scrolling through this page or by clicking on any of its elements, you consent to the use of cookies. To learn more or to opt out, click "Further Information".