An apprenticeship was never the route I imagined myself going down. Being pushed through the University tunnel throughout my whole higher education made me feel as though it was the only route. Until I found the PRCA apprenticeship scheme.
As a people person, keen to navigate the world of public relations and marketing, I began a search into how I could start my career, quickly realising that I wanted to work and learn on the job. After many conversations with career advisors and professionals in the world of PR, I withdrew my university applications and applied for a Level 4 diploma in public relations with Ilex Content Strategies through the PRCA.
Busting the Myths
I was always told that apprenticeships were for those that couldn’t get the grades for university or who weren’t academic. But that is far from the truth. Apprenticeships are for anyone. They are an ideal way to kickstart your career, providing valuable industry experience. With the combination of working within an organisation whilst also studying toward a qualification, I have been exposed to the industry with hands-on experience that University couldn’t give me.
A common misconception about an apprenticeship is that it's the ’easy’ route, but don’t underestimate the amount of work you will have to put in. Like with anything, you get out what you out in. And, if you are willing, the rewards, success and transformative life skills you will earn make it so worth it.
Life Within a PR Agency
Although only six months in, starting this apprenticeship has opened my eyes to the world of PR and marketing, with valuable business experience from day one. From the Monday in September that I started, I was immediately involved in client work and benefitted hugely from the extent of exposure my role has provided me with.
I have an active role in client communications, having direct conversations and attending regular calls. This has helped me develop the foundational skills crucial to PR in relationship building, managing high pressured environments, having the ability to adapt and overall, my verbal and written communication. No day is the same. I learn something new every day, constantly improving on current skills and developing new ones to aid my development in this field.
The future of my career in PR is something that excites me greatly. I have a year left of the programme and upon successful completion, I hope to continue to grow within Ilex Content Strategies, explore city living and find the specialism of PR that I love.
You Got This
If you are considering starting an apprenticeship, I say go for it. Weigh up your options and apply to ones that you feel will suit your ambitions and goals and get stuck in. The key with an apprenticeship is that you are constantly learning and evolving and so be ready to give it your all. Ultimately, enjoy the experience and soak up all the knowledge and expertise of your team.
I couldn’t have asked for a stronger team and mentor to support me in this journey. A phrase of mine that I have passed through the team at Ilex Content Strategies is one that I think we should all remember – You Got This.
I would love to hear how you get on if you decide to join the PRCA Apprenticeship community or if you are already on your journey. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn: Tilly Godzisz.
#SkillsforLife
The PRCA delivers the Higher PR & Communications Assistant Standard, with the structured support of the Level 4 Diploma in PR. Both are nationally recognised. Flexible in structure, employers can tailor the Diploma using optional units to suit the needs of the business. Learners are placed in the workplace and complete on-the-job training and assessment. Click here to find out more about the PR Apprenticeship programme.