How did you come across Apprentify?
I was studying a completely different subject at university, but I did a module on marketing and really fell in love with it. When I finished my degree, I looked at some potential jobs, but I struggled to see myself in the roles. I took a step back and decided that I wanted to take marketing seriously, so I did some independent learning at home through LinkedIn, and it was there that I found the opportunity to work for Merkle via an apprenticeship with Apprentify. I remember the person I spoke with at Apprentify said it was an unmissable opportunity, and they didn’t need to tell me twice. I went for it, and the rest is history.
What are the benefits of doing an apprenticeship?
I don’t think there is anything better than being paid to learn. Being around like-minded people in the same position in their lives and all deciding to take that leap of faith was amazing. There are so many benefits to the job including flexibility and hybrid working, and being able to learn and develop the skills I need in the role I am in means I stay on top of the things I need to know to get ahead in the industry.
The training provided by Apprentify really supplemented my independent learning and solidified my knowledge in a way that allowed me to perform the role I do now. Alongside Dentsu training, it all came together to make me feel completely capable.
How has this route shaped you personally and professionally?
For me, coming from a low-income first-generation background, I didn’t really have anyone to look to in the professional sense. I didn’t have anyone with experience in this industry, but Apprentify gave me the steppingstone to be able to demystify an industry that was a complete unknown and break it down to show how achievable it is.
I was actually promoted during my apprenticeship, which I didn’t think would be possible. All in all, it has made me more outgoing, I will volunteer for challenging work and an appetite to grab anything I can. Also having my apprenticeship portfolio alongside client work highlights my time management skills, which are essential in agency setups.
Would you recommend apprenticeships to others?
My apprenticeship at Dentsu provided me with opportunities for career advancement. If you are considering it, I would say, just go for it. I truly don’t think there is a better opportunity to be paid to learn and develop yourself. I’ve never felt more supported and if I had any concerns they were immediately addressed.
I would absolutely recommend it, especially to anyone with a background like my own, but also those who have gone to university. I know apprenticeships carry a stigma, but without it I wouldn’t have the confidence to put myself into the environments I am in now. It really helped to make me feel like I belong.