GetMyFirstJob Ambassador
Hello, I Am Sonia
I decided to do an apprenticeship because I didn’t want to go down the traditional route of attending university as I wanted to gain a degree while also having valuable experience. The practical skills and connections that I develop on the job will be beneficial for when I finish my qualification.
Tell us more about your experience
What are your interests outside of work?
I have a passion for volunteering and travelling. During my volunteering experience in Sri Lanka, my primary focus was on childcare and teaching English, which allowed me to make a positive impact and form strong connections with the children. Additionally, I have a genuine love for fitness and regularly attend the gym.
Can you describe your job and what you do on a day-to-day basis?
So far, I have had experience in marketing where I have handled the social media, content filming and schedules as well as event coordination. Additionally, I contributed to the health and safety team where I conducted an audit and participated in the filming process. My main responsibilities on a day-to-day basis are to make sure that the service runs smoothly, employees are trained in health & safety, orders are placed, and the paperwork is sorted.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
One of my standout moments was when I organised a cupcake and muffin masterclass event for the students. During this experience, I utilised Adobe photoshop to design promotional posters, generated QR codes, collaborated with key stakeholders to coordinate the event, and set up an Eventbrite page.
What has been the biggest challenge of your career so far?
The most challenging aspect of my career has been the task of delivering presentations to the senior leadership team, as my presentation skills were not my strong suit initially. Nevertheless, with increasing frequency in my presentations, my confidence has grown.
What sort of support network do you have at your company?
My company always listens to understand my concerns, needs and requirements. My apprenticeship training provider, Arden university, has also provided several support mechanisms. We have our teachers, skills coach and the university team all at hand to help with any queries.
What will happen at the end of your apprenticeship, and have you discussed this with your employer?
In conversations with my employer, it has been determined that during the course of my apprenticeship, I will have the opportunity to observe and learn from departments of interest. This will provide me with a better understanding of the career path I intend to pursue after completing my apprenticeship.
What would be your words of advice to someone thinking about doing an apprenticeship?
My top advice for individuals considering an apprenticeship is to actively inquire and seek guidance from mentors and experienced colleagues, as this can be very valuable. Additionally, engage with a wide network of professionals, as it can unlock potential future career prospects and offer valuable insights into your chosen field.