The amount of responsibility I have gained at just 18 is flabbergasting; for example, I’m speaking to clients nearly every day. I never doubted that I would eventually, but it still amazes me that I’m here already! At my age, going into a new job, I thought I would be told what to do but I’m actually encouraged to think about solutions myself and bring them to the table.
Another advantage of an Apprenticeship, at any level, is that my employer pays for the course, so IBM pick up my university fees. My salary then covers my cost of living, rent and any travel. I’ve worked out what I think it will cost to live in London and I still think I will be comfortable financially. What would my advice be for anyone wanting to follow a similar route to me? Firstly, be proactive. If your school or college isn’t pushing any options other than university, then research it yourself. There is lots of help and advice out there to help you understand what you need to do. I was never pushed by my school, but IBM were so impressed that I had taken the initiative myself, I’m sure that helped.
Then, get yourself as much experience as you can, as potential employers will want to hear about it all. Look at everything as an opportunity: even at school, something like helping out with
an after-school club will give you experience that will really help you in later life, in general. While I was at school, I worked part-time and trained as a barista. Although it wasn’t what I wanted to do in life, I still gave it 100% and it gave me great skills and experiences. For example, the customer experience and communication skills I was using daily in the coffee shop meant I was able to demonstrate at my interview that I already had these and could adapt them to IBM clients.
I have had so many opportunities already. I’ve even joined the Association of Apprenticeships, a new community to provide advice and support to other apprentices. I feel very lucky to be in this position and I would recommend anyone to consider an apprenticeship.
Editors note
Since we conducted this interview, Euan’s role in IBM has now changed. He now works in the UKI Garage Squad. The Squad focuses on engaging with large organisations and implementing the Garage Methodology to allow them to operate at speed as if they were a start- up, but, with the scalability of an enterprise.
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Make The Future Yours! Issue 2
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