What does it take to transform from a shy student to a confident classroom leader? In this episode of Alumni Stories, Sarah Lisarelli takes us through her unexpected journey to becoming a history teacher at Luxembourg's Lycée Robert Schumann.

Sarah's story begins with a surprising confession – she originally wanted to be a veterinarian. But witnessing the profound impact teachers had on her peers sparked a different calling. She saw firsthand how destructive negative teacher interactions could be, with some friends being told they would "never amount to anything" simply for being energetic or having ADHD. Simultaneously, positive teacher influences in her own life showed her the transformative power of supportive education.

For someone naturally shy and introverted, choosing a career that requires standing in front of a classroom daily seemed counterintuitive. Sarah candidly shares her struggles with confidence, perfectionism, and the paralyzing fear of making mistakes. Her evolution from meticulously rehearsing presentations to comfortably joking about technological glitches in class demonstrates a profound personal transformation. "I think I put myself under a lot of pressure because I didn't want to do anything wrong," she reflects, describing early teaching anxieties that will resonate with many educators.

The path wasn't straightforward – COVID-19 crushed her dreams of studying in Berlin just as they were about to materialize, and she chose an alternative route into teaching rather than the traditional Luxembourg concours. But these detours taught her perhaps the most valuable lesson for both teachers and students alike: perfection isn't the goal, growth is. As a colleague wisely told her, "We have 40 years to perfect our courses. We don't need perfect lessons on day one."

Whether you're considering a teaching career, struggling with professional confidence, or simply interested in how educators develop their craft, Sarah's journey offers authentic insights into the challenging yet rewarding path of classroom leadership. Connect with us to learn more about studying at the University of Luxembourg and preparing for your own professional journey.

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Forget everything you thought you knew about librarians. In this captivating Alumni Stories episode, Kim Monteiro shatters stereotypes as she takes us through her journey from anxious history student to confident librarian specialist at the Luxembourg Learning Centre.

Kim's story begins with her decision to study history at the University of Luxembourg, driven by family ties and the university's unique multilingual approach. Though initially planning to become a teacher, a student job at the university library unexpectedly redirected her career path. As she reveals the surprisingly diverse nature of modern librarianship—from training sessions and project management to creative programming and student support—listeners gain insight into a profession that's far more dynamic than commonly perceived.

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Kim's journey is her transformation from someone terrified of public speaking to a professional who regularly conducts training sessions. Her candid discussion about practicing presentations in front of mirrors, recording herself, and gradually building confidence offers valuable strategies for anyone battling similar anxieties. "Face your fears," she advises, acknowledging that nervousness isn't weakness but rather a sign that you care about performing well.

Throughout the conversation, Kim highlights how her Bachelor in European Cultures and Master's in History equipped her with critical research skills essential for her current role. She shares thoughtful perspectives on balancing academic commitments with personal life, adapting to online learning during COVID, and navigating the evolving relationship between libraries and artificial intelligence. Her advice about maintaining social connections and seeking support resonates whether you're considering studying at Luxembourg or facing life transitions anywhere.

Whether you're curious about university life at Luxembourg, contemplating a career in information services, or simply appreciate stories of personal growth, Kim's authentic account of finding her professional path offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. Listen now to discover how stepping outside your comfort zone might lead to unexpected opportunities and personal transformation.

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What happens when you stop doubting and start doing? Sarah Bamberg's trajectory from banking to becoming an executive officer at the Film Fund Luxembourg reveals how embracing uncertainty can lead to unexpected success. 

Having once believed she lacked the ability for university studies, Sarah now analyses scripts, selects projects for funding, and shapes Luxembourg's cultural landscape. Her story challenges our assumptions about linear career paths and highlights the value of calculated risk-taking.

"The pain of regret is greater than the pain of failure," Sarah shares, explaining how this philosophy guided her from initial self-doubt through her bachelor's in French literature, a cross-border master's degree, and eventually an MBA—all while taking on increasing responsibilities at the Film Fund.

As part of the selection committee, Sarah evaluates the artistic and technical quality of film projects, meeting with directors and producers from Luxembourg and beyond. Her literature background unexpectedly prepared her for script analysis, while her administrative skills help navigate the complex world of film funding and production.

For those hesitant to pursue their ambitions, Sarah's advice resonates: break large goals into manageable steps, seek support from others, and don't be afraid to try something new. Whether you're considering university studies, changing careers, or contributing to cultural development, her journey demonstrates that it's never too late to discover and develop your talents.

Explore Luxembourg's vibrant cultural scene through the eyes of someone who helps make it possible. Listen now to gain insights about balancing professional growth with personal wellbeing, and discover how cultural institutions like the Film Fund nurture creative expression in surprising ways.

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The journey from student to teacher isn't always smooth, but for Maxime Schreiner, a clear vision and adaptable mindset made all the difference. This captivating episode follows the path of a young French teacher who transitioned from being the quiet student in the back row to standing confidently at the front of the classroom.

Maxime shares how his childhood dream of becoming a teacher evolved through his Bachelor's and Master's degrees at the University of Luxembourg. With remarkable pragmatism, he navigated university challenges—including pandemic disruptions—while maintaining focus on his goals. His student work experience at the university's Media Center provided unique behind-the-scenes perspectives that enriched his educational journey.

What makes Maxime's approach to teaching particularly compelling is how his own experience as a reserved student shapes his classroom philosophy. He understands that not every student actively participates, but that doesn't mean they aren't engaged or inspired. "Sometimes you think they are not listening, but they might be," he explains, highlighting his commitment to reaching learners of all types.

Perhaps most charming is the symbol of continuity through his journey—a Winnie the Pooh pencil case he's carried since age 13. This simple object has accompanied him from high school student to university graduate to professional teacher, representing both his journey and the childlike curiosity he still brings to education.

For anyone considering a teaching career, studying at the University of Luxembourg, or simply interested in educational perspectives, Maxime's story offers valuable insights about perseverance, finding your path, and the continuous nature of learning. As he wisely notes, "I'm a better teacher than yesterday, but still not as good as tomorrow."

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What does it take to transform a university assignment into a professional theater career? Mandy Thiery never imagined her required monologue for a Luxembourgish theater history course would launch her journey as a playwright. Yet that single assignment caught her professor's attention, leading to a professional reading and eventually her first commissioned play.

Mandy takes us through her remarkable balancing act as a student—working night shifts as a bartender, completing internships at major theaters, and beginning her freelance writing career, all while pursuing her Bachelor's in European Cultures and Master's in Theatre Studies at the University of Luxembourg. Her story defies conventional career paths, revealing how talent combined with extraordinary determination can forge unexpected opportunities.

The conversation explores the reality of Luxembourg's cultural landscape, where most artists maintain what Mandy calls a "semi-professional" existence. Currently splitting her time between the Escher Theater, where she assists the director, and her freelance writing projects, Mandy candidly discusses how she manages multiple deadlines and maintains creativity across projects in four different languages. Her organisational strategies offer valuable insights for anyone juggling creative pursuits with practical necessities.

Perhaps most compelling is Mandy's evolving relationship with ambition itself. "I never dared to dream," she admits, reflecting on her surprise at her own success. Now working on the final installment of a theatrical trilogy, with numerous other projects in development, her advice resonates powerfully: "You have to be brave to not have a secure job. If you really dare to dream, you need to dare yourself."

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What happens when life's journey takes unexpected turns? Louis Grün never planned to become a teacher. After graduating from high school in Luxembourg without a clear direction, he chose the University of Luxembourg's English program for its proximity and interdisciplinary approach, blending his passions for English literature and history.

Louis's story takes flight during his mandatory exchange semester, when family connections led him to Miami University in Ohio – not the sunny beach destination, but a classic American campus "in the middle of cornfields." The experience proved so transformative that he returned for his master's degree in history, falling in love not just with American academia but with his future wife.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the January 6th events in Washington DC dramatically altered his American dream. Returning to Luxembourg in 2021, Louis attempted a journalism career at the local newspaper Tageblatt, where he interviewed politicians and ambassadors but struggled with tight deadlines and readjusting to German after years of English immersion. "It was really tough work," Louis reflects. "I really have an appreciation for the whole journalism profession, but it was just a little bit too tense for me."

When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Louis's local high school needed teachers to assist refugee students. Despite having previously dismissed teaching as a career path, he volunteered to help – and discovered an unexpected calling. "Now I'm really glad that they pushed me into teaching," he admits, comparing the profession to "a stand-up comedian's job" where you entertain students while educating them.

Louis's journey through the rigorous Luxembourg teacher examination process ("concours") and two-year traineeship reveals how our greatest fulfillment often comes from paths we never intended to travel. His philosophy, borrowed from his favorite Studio Ghibli film – "The wind rises, we must try to live" – perfectly captures his approach to embracing life's unexpected opportunities.

Have you found yourself on an unexpected career path? Louis's story reminds us that sometimes the most rewarding journeys are the ones we never planned. Subscribe to Alumni Stories for more inspiring conversations with University of Luxembourg graduates who've navigated the winds of change to find their calling.

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Navigating educational and career paths rarely follows a straight line – something Mariana Mendes knows firsthand. After moving from Portugal to Luxembourg at age 11, Mariana developed adaptability skills that would serve her throughout life's unexpected turns. When she entered university, teaching wasn't her definitive goal; she simply followed her passion for English language and literature.

The Bachelor in English Studies (BCE) program at the University of Luxembourg became her testing ground. Mariana discovered a profound interest in linguistics while keeping her options open professionally. "I explored copywriting, public relations, and other fields, but nothing really appealed to me," she reflects. This openness to possibility, rather than rigid career planning, ultimately led her to a fulfilling teaching career.

Her educational journey took her through an Erasmus exchange in Birmingham, volunteer teaching in Slovakia, and a master's degree in Language in Society at the University of Amsterdam. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted her studies, forcing a return to Luxembourg mid-thesis, Mariana adapted once again. Starting as a pedagogical assistant gave her valuable classroom observation experience before transitioning to full-time teaching students aged 11-20.

What makes Mariana's story particularly valuable is her reflection on overcoming challenges. She candidly shares her struggles with procrastination and feeling overwhelmed during university. "I started developing organization strategies like finally buying a planner and setting tiny deadlines throughout the week," she explains. These practical approaches transformed her experience, making her wish she'd discovered them sooner.

Looking for guidance on your educational journey? Listen to Mariana's advice: "Choose courses that truly interest you, not just ones you think you should take for a future job. Following what you love will always open doors you didn't even know existed." Subscribe to Alumni Stories for more inspiring conversations with University of Luxembourg graduates who've found their unique paths forward.

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What happens when life derails your perfect plans? For Djuna Bernard, Luxembourg's youngest parliamentarian elected at age 26, the answer lies in embracing the unexpected.

Djuna's political journey began with a teenage crush at an election party, where she met a boy in the Young Greens. While the relationship lasted only months, her political engagement endured, though she never imagined it would become her career. Growing up with a politically active single mother, social engagement was woven into her childhood, yet her dream was clear: become a history teacher.

Throughout university, Djuna balanced intensive community involvement with her studies, often leaving social gatherings early to attend meetings. Despite her busy schedule, she remained determined to follow her teaching path—until a transformative solo backpacking trip across four continents after completing her bachelor's degree. On Bali's beaches, with a beer in hand, she confronted a difficult truth: her carefully constructed plan no longer fit who she'd become.

This revelation led her to pursue nonprofit management instead of history education, and when the Syrian refugee crisis erupted in 2015, she founded "Refugees Welcome to Luxembourg." Her growing profile in youth advocacy culminated in an unexpected lunch with a Green Party minister who asked her to run for Parliament—giving her mere hours to decide. With little to lose, she took the plunge.

Entering Parliament as its youngest member brought challenges. Colleagues initially treated her as "the cute little young girl" rather than an equal, but she gradually earned respect through substantive work, including reforming school canteen systems to prioritize local, organic food options.

For students feeling uncertain about their futures, Djuna offers refreshingly practical advice: create space for honest self-reflection, be courageous in following your instincts rather than others' expectations, and remain open to new possibilities. As she puts it, "I want to be the one telling my grandchildren that I at least tried to change something."

Ready to find your own unexpected path? Listen now to discover how stepping out of your comfort zone might lead to extraordinary possibilities.

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What happens when websites disappear? Ben Els, Digital Curator for the Luxembourg Web Archive, guides us through the fascinating and vital world of digital preservation. Contrary to popular belief, online information is highly vulnerable to being lost forever as websites change or vanish completely. "Information online is much more ephemeral, much more in danger of being lost," Ben explains, highlighting why his work at the National Library of Luxembourg is so crucial.

The Luxembourg Web Archive creates exact copies of websites, preserving both content and user experience for future generations. From daily captures of news media to special collections documenting significant events like elections and the COVID-19 pandemic, Ben's team works to ensure Luxembourg's digital heritage remains accessible. Surprisingly, this massive undertaking is managed by just two people – a staffing level typical for national web archiving initiatives worldwide. "Whole continents are not covered," Ben notes, revealing the concerning global gaps in digital preservation efforts.

Ben's journey to this specialized role reveals valuable insights for students and career-seekers. After reluctantly attending the University of Luxembourg, he discovered unexpected benefits in its smaller, more personal environment. His path through German literature studies, a master's degree in Potsdam, and internships at cultural institutions demonstrates how following genuine interests rather than fixed career plans can lead to fulfilling professional opportunities. 

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For those interested in exploring this field, the National Library offers student positions, vacation jobs, and internships across various departments. 

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Sofia Dos Santos never planned to become a teacher. Graduating with an economics diploma in 2014, she initially resisted attending the University of Luxembourg's Bachelor in European Cultures program. Yet that unexpected decision transformed her life, leading her to discover her true calling in teaching French literature and language.

Sofia's captivating story reveals the beautiful intersection between personal passion and professional fulfillment. During our conversation, she candidly shares the challenges of transitioning from economics to French studies, where she initially felt disadvantaged compared to classmates from classical education backgrounds. Yet her deep love for the French language—rooted in her immigrant heritage—carried her through difficult moments and blossomed into genuine academic passion.

What makes Sofia's journey particularly compelling is her successful navigation of Luxembourg's notoriously competitive teaching examination system. The "concours" sees hundreds of candidates competing for just a handful of permanent positions, yet Sofia passed on her first attempt—an achievement she attributes to excellent university preparation. Her insights into this high-pressure process provide valuable guidance for aspiring educators.

Whether you're considering a teaching career, curious about University of Luxembourg programs, or simply appreciate stories of people finding their unexpected calling, Sofia's journey will inspire you to remain open to life's surprising paths. Subscribe to Alumni Stories for more conversations with graduates who are making meaningful contributions to education and beyond!

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