For National Apprenticeship Week, I can’t help but reflect on my unconventional path into the world of marketing. While the traditional route is to begin an apprenticeship straight after high school, I took a different approach. Having completed a four-year degree at the University of Hull in Digital Design, I found myself at a crossroad. Little did I know my journey into the dynamic realm of marketing and communications was about to begin.
Choosing a different path (although very slight.)
At 22, I decided to pursue my passion of marketing, a field that intrigued me during my university years. Despite the norm being to start an apprenticeship earlier in life, I embrace the idea of continuous learning and growth. This decision was met with uncertainty from some, but I was determined to create my own path.
From Digital Design to Marketing.
With a degree in Digital Design, I was equipped with a unique skill set that seamlessly transitioned into the world of marketing. The creative and technical aspects of education provided a strong foundation, allowing me to approach marketing challenges with a fresh perspective. This fusion of design and marketing became my competitive edge.
Discovering a passion at Hull and East Yorkshire Mind.
The turning point in my journey came when I found the perfect opportunity at Hull and East Yorkshire Mind. As a marketing and communications trainee, I was thrilled to contribute to an organisation that advocates mental health awareness. The alignment of my newfound passion with a meaningful cause made the apprenticeship all the more awarding. Something people don’t usually see is that marketing for a mental health organisation is very different than marketing for something that physically sells a product. Making sure details are correct and enabling the public to retain something from everything we share is something of a talent alone. It is definitely the most rewarding opportunity I have ever come by.
Learning on the job.
The apprenticeship experience at Hull and East Yorkshire Mind is a blend of hands-on learning and professional development. From creating engaging social media content to crafting compelling email campaigns, each task contributes to my growth as a marketing professional. The supportive environment fosters a culture of continuous learning, where each day brings new challenges and opportunities.
Navigating challenges.
Embarking on an apprenticeship journey later than the conventional age brought its own set of challenges. Adapting to a new work environment and aligning my skills with industry trends required perseverance. However, each hurdle became a stepping stone, propelling me towards a successful career in marketing.
In retrospect, choosing an apprenticeship in digital marketing at 22, after completing university, was a decision that will shape my professional identity. The journey from digital design to marketing has been transformative, and my experience (so far) at Hull and East Yorkshire Mind has been nothing short of inspiring. As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, my story stands as a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to pursue your passion and carve out your unique career path.
