My NCII Journey

  The National Certificate II in Cookery loomed large, a mountain I had to climb. Preparation felt like a marathon, not a sprint. I spent days, even weeks, practicing knife skills, perfecting sauces, and memorizing recipes. The pressure mounted, each day feeling like a test in itself. Sleep became a luxury, replaced by anxious thoughts of the assessment. Doubt gnawed at me; would I truly be ready? 

       The assessment day arrived, a blur of nervous energy. My hands trembled as I prepped ingredients, my mind racing through every technique I'd learned. The kitchen felt smaller, the heat more intense, and the ticking clock amplified my anxiety. Each task felt monumental, a potential stumbling block on my path to success. I questioned every decision, second-guessing my every move.

      The pressure was immense. I could feel the weight of expectation, both self-imposed and from others. The fear of failure was a constant companion, whispering doubts in my ear. Every mistake felt catastrophic, every minor mishap a potential disaster. I pushed myself, striving to maintain focus despite the overwhelming nervousness.

       Finally, the assessment concluded. Exhaustion washed over me, a wave of relief mixed with uncertainty. The waiting felt agonizing, each moment stretching into an eternity. Then, the announcement came – I had passed! The relief was overwhelming, a flood of emotion that washed away the anxiety and doubt.

     All the hard work, the late nights, the self-doubt – it was all worth it. The feeling of accomplishment was immense, a testament to my dedication and perseverance. The NCII certificate wasn't just a piece of paper; it was a symbol of my resilience, a validation of my skills, and a stepping stone to my future. The journey had been challenging, but the reward was beyond measure.

By: Mark Joshua Gultiano