“So which universities are you applying to?” As a Sixth Form Student in my last few months of school, I cannot even count the amount of times I was asked that question by teachers and family members. Although I understood the excitement of starting a new life in a new place, I just knew it wasn’t right for me.
Those last few months at Sixth Form are a time I will struggle to forget. A stressful chapter for most and one that is made a lot harder by not knowing your next step. Looking back now, I can safely say it has all paid off.
I soon saw that the PRCA were recruiting a new Public Relations Apprentice with the workplace being in Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s press office. At that point, like probably most of you reading this, I was applying for near enough every job and apprenticeship going. But after seeing the job advert, I felt a sense of relief in finally finding something that looked just right for me. A mix of all of my interests rolled into one.
On the day of my interview, I was met at reception by the Deputy Head of Communications, Erin. Her friendly smile made me feel instantly at ease. After talking with Erin and job share Shelley, the two of them together made me feel right at home.
The next couple of days consisted of refreshing my phone to check for missed calls or emails every couple of minutes.
I was finally called by Katy from the PRCA. With a racing heart I listened to her tell me I had been offered the role. A year in and it’s been the best of my life so far.
Along the way I have written press releases for local newspapers and radio stations, lead a two-month campaign, managed the force social media accounts, and created posters that have been distributed around the county.
What’s more, I’ve got to know countless amounts of new people both in and outside of the organisation. From filming the Chief Constable to liaising with and meeting journalists, it has been one huge rollercoaster that I never want to get off of.
Being on the top floor of Headquarters, I’ve helped maintain the force’s reputation alongside a team of fantastic people.
As a student 18 months ago, I never would’ve thought I could achieve so much in one year.