25-year-old Caragh Dougan works in the healthcare communications team at Hanover Communications and is due to complete her level 4 PRCA diploma in November
Following my A-levels, I knew I didn’t want to attend university, as whilst I enjoyed my studies, school was always a challenge for me, and I didn’t know what I wanted to do at that time in my life.
When I was made redundant after a successful career in sales and events management, I assessed my skillset and my passions, which led me to the world of PR. I knew that an apprenticeship was going to be the best way for me to gain invaluable experience working in a PR agency with PR professionals, whilst studying alongside my work to increase my understanding of the role I will be starting a career in.
I found the opportunity on the government website and was lucky enough to secure my place as the first PR apprentice at Hanover. Since the start of my apprenticeship, I have learnt how to utilise my skills in a fast-paced environment, delivered high profile media campaigns working alongside a talented team, I’ve had the opportunity to write press releases, and networked with influential healthcare leaders at the NHSConfed Expo.
The apprenticeship has allowed me to challenge myself within areas I am less competent in, gaining first-hand experience of how to perfect my work, learning from any downfalls and carrying this knowledge with me throughout my career.
The best part is that the apprenticeship has introduced me to a fantastic network of people with the same passion and desires as myself, both inside and outside the agency. I have a supportive mentor from PRCA who has pushed me to be the best I can be, even at some difficult times, and helps me with any queries I have about the industry, and the coursework I am writing.
Having the opportunity to prove myself in such a competitive field is something I will be ever grateful for, and I hope to one day give back to Hanover by training and helping other apprentices at the start of their careers.