Working has been the best teacher
The best thing about doing my Digital Marketing Apprenticeship has been getting hands on, practical experience. Learning something can be very different to practising something. That’s why an apprenticeship can be an ideal higher education route, particularly if you’re not sure what you want to do. Almost everything I’ve needed to know I’ve learnt on the job. This has also been complemented by training sessions from my learning provider.
Particularly for a profession like Digital Marketing, the soft skills you gain from working can outweigh the value of classroom knowledge. The workplace is great for cultivating networking and management skills. An apprenticeship gives you a workplace ready toolkit so that you can apply for future positions with confidence. Working has undoubtedly accelerated my personal and professional development. I’ve had to step outside of my comfort zone doing things like leading projects and engaging in public speaking.
Networking goes a long way
As I’m beginning to think about next steps post apprenticeship my network is already supporting me in exploring my options going forwards. I’ve regularly had coffee chats with colleagues throughout the apprenticeship to learn about which areas of marketing I’m most interested in. Other people’s professional journeys been a source of inspiration in deciding what I want to do next.
Your in control of your professional journey
On an apprenticeship you tend to have more say on the direction of your learning as opposed to a degree or other fixed courses. You can select projects that align towards your interests. Working across teams, volunteering for events, and taking an interest in areas beyond my immediate team have all helped with my self-development beyond immediate day-to-day responsibilities.
There are many paths to success
Many people consider university to be the only path to success, however apprenticeships are an increasingly popular alternative, that have an appeal to people of all ages. Apprenticeships are a great option for people who want to ‘earn while you learn’, get work experience or climb the corporate ladder. They’re also a great option for those not wishing to acquire student debt from university but still earn a professional qualification, for free! What’s more, apprenticeships are often a gateway into big companies with opportunities to secure full time positions. In this way apprenticeships can fast track you in your career. Gaining experience at an early age can help you advance through a company before other students have even finished university.
Apprenticeships are a great way of building communities
The apprentice community is a great asset for like-minded individuals to share their tips, tricks, and personal experiences. Apprentices share a common experience of not going to uni. What’s more by taking an unconventional higher education route they are going against the status quo. The apprentices I’ve met always have similar qualities such as a sense of entrepreneurship and ambition.
