From preparatory secondary vocational education to philosophy: ‘And maybe I’ll even pursue a PhD someday.’

From special education to university: Danique van den Berg (28) has followed an extraordinary path through vocational and higher education. Now studying philosophy, he advocates for greater flexibility in education, stating: “Everyone deserves the chance to discover if university is the right fit for them.”

What path did you take to get to university?

‘In primary school, I was diagnosed with autism, leading me to transition from regular to special education. There, my social and emotional development were well supported, and the school advised against putting too much pressure on academics. I began at vmbo-kader (preparatory secondary vocational education) but switched to vmbo-theoretisch (a higher level) after two years due to a lack of challenge.

‘After obtaining my diploma, I pursued an mbo level 3 program (secondary vocational education) in Safety & Craftsmanship to explore a military career but quickly realized it wasn’t for me. I then switched to an mbo level 4 program in sustainability and entrepreneurship, which I completed at my parents’ insistence, even though it wasn’t my passion.

‘After graduating, I traveled the world for six months. Upon my return, I worked as a courier at DHL for four years and started a part-time hbo (university of applied sciences) history program to eventually transfer to university. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed my progress, but two years ago, I transitioned to university. I’m now in my second year of a philosophy bachelor’s program.’

What would you like to change about the Dutch education system?

‘I believe the education system should be more open to late entrants. Currently, the system is rigid: moving from mbo to hbo requires an mbo-4 diploma, and transitioning to university is only possible with a propaedeutic certificate or an hbo degree.

‘There is little flexibility, such as alternative pathways to demonstrate your ability to handle the level. Although the 21+ test was an option, it also depends on the rules of the educational institution. Providing more opportunities for students to explore whether university suits them would be beneficial. The rigidity of the system currently poses an obstacle for many people.’

Do you notice any differences between the methods used at university and those at hbo or mbo education?

‘The difference between university and mbo is huge. At university, you’re expected to make your own choices and take responsibility for your studies. No one will reprimand you for missing a lecture, which I find liberating, it gives me the freedom to decide how to structure my days. This is unthinkable in mbo, where attending all lectures is mandatory, and you have to explain your absence if you’re not present.

‘What I also find special about university is the more equal relationship between professors and students. In philosophy, events are regularly organized where both professors and students come together for lectures or social gatherings. There is an atmosphere where students’ opinions are genuinely valued. This is very different from my experience in mbo, where the role division was much stricter: the teacher speaks, and the student listens.’

You’ve come a long way before reaching university, which makes you older than your classmates. Do you feel like you’re in a different life stage than they are?

‘I often see students sitting in class with a hangover. Although I’ve never been much of a party animal, I notice that many of them have a strong desire to go out, which seems tied to their age. I also observe that younger students often struggle with insecurity and have a strong need to discover themselves, while I’ve already moved past that phase. The age gap between me and others sometimes reaches nearly ten years.

‘But despite being older than most students, I’m certainly not the oldest. I attend classes with an older man who decided to study philosophy after retiring. I find that incredibly inspiring because it proves that it’s never too late to discover something new.’

Do you feel there are prejudices against people with a mbo background at university?

‘Yes, and I think that’s unfortunate. When looking at income, which is an important factor for many people, you can now earn just as much, or even more, with a practical profession than with a university degree.

‘What I find especially frustrating is that prejudices can be an obstacle. Everyone should have the opportunity to advance to a higher level, such as from mbo to hbo, without the stigma that you ‘should just work with your hands.’ Such comments can be discouraging and hinder someone’s ambition. At the same time, it’s important to motivate people to be content with the level that suits them. Not everyone needs to pursue a university degree to be successful or happy.

‘I know people who have completed a university degree but ultimately chose a different path, such as working as a gardener or bicycle courier. They did this because an office job wasn’t right for them. They find more fulfillment in the work they’re doing now. This shows how important it is not just to look at someone’s educational level, but especially at what makes them happy.’

When did you first feel that university truly was your place?

‘I found the very first exam period quite nerve-wracking. It was last October, and I clearly remember thinking, ‘This is the moment of truth.’ Luckily, it went really well, and I averaged a 7. From that moment, I was certain that I belonged here and that studying philosophy was the right choice.

‘My dream is to pursue a Master’s in Philosophy in Oslo after my Bachelor’s. The program allows you to largely design your own curriculum, giving me the opportunity to focus on one topic for an entire year. I’m not sure what I’ll do after my Master’s, but I can imagine staying in academia and perhaps even pursuing a PhD.’

_Advertentie.