Rhianne went down the ‘traditional’ educational route, completing her Alevels and going on to University-level study, however, she felt just as unsure of her future at 21 as she did at 16. Now six months into a Digital Marketing Apprenticeship at City College, Rhianne has finally found the right career path.
“With my degree in hand I was still unsure of my career path. I was getting older and I couldn’t afford to back into education, which is when I started looking into Apprenticeships. When I was making my post-16 choices they were never offered as an option but seemed like a great way to get into a new trade without breaking the bank.
“I didn’t realise how many Apprenticeship opportunities there were and in so many different sectors. I chose to apply for a Digital Marketing Apprenticeship at the College as I am a creative person and I felt the skills I had would be well suited to the role.
“I am six months into my Apprenticeship and I love it. I have been thrown in at the deep end but I am enjoying the challenge and the fast reactive pace of the job. No two days are the same and I often find myself out and about coming up with content for the College’s various social media platforms. I have already gained experience in different aspects of marketing from helping out at events, to assisting the Communications and PR team with press release information. I also get the opportunity to use my creative skills including: using photoshop, video editing and photography.
“Apprenticeships allow you to gain skills while getting vital experience in the workplace. I have been able to work with loads of different people and draw upon their expertise to improve my own understanding of my trade. There is also a great importance placed on staff development at the College and I have been lucky enough to gain more training attending workshops in both Bristol and London. Even little things like learning how to utilise basic computer programmes and talking on the phone are all vital skills I will need in my future career. I know with what I’m learning I am going to be able to go into any job.
“As someone who has started an Apprenticeship later in life, I feel I’m finally where I am supposed to be. Before, I felt like I was going through the motions and doing what I was told to do but now with my Apprenticeship I am taking ownership of my own learning. Vocational pathways are for everyone – I would highly recommend them to anyone of any age if you are looking to start a new trade or try something different.”
