Raphael finally pursued his dream program in digital marketing through Noroff's flexible online studies; - Suddenly, Noroff appeared as an ad on YouTube, and I quickly realized that studying there was perfect for me.
Raphael Sellevoll Cayn (35), residing in Bergen, has recently found his path to digital marketing through online studies at Noroff. He has a background in various professions, including American football, but it was only with Noroff that he found the opportunity to fulfill his dream of studying marketing.
- I have worked in retail, served in the military, and had other jobs. Becoming a father of two young children made me need a more flexible daily life, Raphael shares.
I have never been good at school, but Noroff offered another way into the education system that fit my situation perfectly. Raphael Sellevoll Cayn
Admitted Based on Prior Learning
The choice of digital marketing as an online study was not a coincidence. After seeing a YouTube ad for Noroff, Raphael realized that prior learning opened doors for him.
- I have never been good at school, but Noroff offered another way into the education system that suited my situation perfectly, he says.
In addition to finally being able to take his dream program in digital marketing, Raphael experienced several positive aspects of online studies at Noroff. Being able to study from home has given him the necessary flexibility to balance both his studies and the care of his young children.
- As a father of young children with hectic days, my motivation was that I could structure and have a flexible daily life. Now I have time to drop off and pick up the kids, as well as be there for them.
- The Teachers Have Been a Great Support
A typical day for Raphael starts early with breakfast with his children before he sits down to study.
- I get up with the kids and can enjoy a nice morning with them before I drop them off. My study day starts with meditation before I move on to three hours of effective work, he explains.
I’ve had engaging and committed teachers who actually see me, even though I’m studying online. Raphael Sellevoll Cayn
Raphael studies both in the morning and later in the afternoon, as well as in the evening after putting the children to bed. Taking good breaks is important during his study sessions.
- During my breaks, I often take a trip to the store, go for a walk or jog, or take the dog for a walk.
Managing distractions has been part of the challenge, especially with a family that requires attention. Raphael handles this with meditation and breaks, but he emphasizes that support from the teachers has also played a significant role for him.
- As I’ve experienced it, life is full of distractions.
He continues:
- I’ve had engaging and committed teachers who actually see me, even though I’m studying online. I must say that was what surprised me the most, he adds.
Through weekly Teams meetings and regular assignments, Raphael keeps in touch with both his teachers and fellow students.
- It has created a sense of community even though we are geographically spread out, he says.
Ready for the Next Step
Studying digital marketing has also given Raphael an entry point into the industry, with relevant learning about social media, storytelling, and website development. He has also started his own marketing agency, where he aims to help businesses with their marketing.
- I’m definitely learning what I need to break into the industry, he says.
With plans to continue his studies further, Raphael is grateful for the support and engagement he has received from Noroff.
- I’m considering doing another year of studies. It’s strange, I didn’t think I was a school person. But Noroff has really opened my eyes, he concludes.
Raphael has now applied and been accepted into the Social Media Video Marketing program at Noroff, and he looks forward to continuing his education.