Why did you apply for the Unilever apprenticeship?
UnileverI was originally studying Marketing at university and although I had a great time, I didn’t have the satisfaction of learning as it wasn’t challenging enough for me. I learnt a lot about Unilever at university and following a lot of research online, came across the apprenticeship scheme. After a brief conversation with my Mum, who was over the moon that I had found this opportunity and was just as excited as I was about it, I decided to apply. I left University in January after staying a term and moved onto the scheme in the March.
What have you enjoyed most about your Apprenticeship so far?
There are so many things that I enjoy about working for Unilever and doing an apprenticeship but I think the most important thing for me is the constant ability to learn. I’ve been here for a while now and I am still learning every day, with opportunities to complete training, take on more projects and upskill in a variety of ways. I love learning new things. Being able to learn every day while earning and working is something I care a lot about.
If you had to describe Unilever in 3 words, what would they be?
Caring, committed and responsible
What’s been the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given?
The most valuable piece of advice I have been given is to be open minded. As an apprentice, I have had every opportunity to make the most out of this experience. Not everything I have done have been things I immediately thought I would be good at, but I have learnt a lot throughout the process. I’ve developed and matured in so many ways because I was willing to try new things and challenge myself.
How does the reality of your Apprenticeship role compare to your expectations before you started the scheme?
Before joining the scheme, I thought it would be great experience for my CV and would give me a lot of opportunity to progress in my working career. Once I moved into the scheme I realised that it was a lot more than that. I’ve developed in my career but I’ve also gained aspirations and life-long friends and I have been given a lot more responsibility than I thought I would get in a workplace. I’ve gained a lot of confidence and understanding of a business as well as developing my own personal opinions and willingness to succeed.
What advice would you give somebody considering an apprenticeship at Unilever?
I would say if you’re considering the apprenticeship and seeing this post, what’s the harm in trying? As a University drop out, I never thought I would get the opportunity to get onto the programme. I’m still in shock sometimes but I got onto the scheme and it was the best decision I ever made.
For graduated apprentices, how has this kick started your career and what are your plans/current employment situation post-graduation?
I’ve just graduated and am moving onto another apprenticeship in Unilever whilst studying a degree. If I hadn’t started doing an apprenticeship here in Unilever I don’t think I would have the degree apprenticeship opportunity that I now have, which is something that I have wanted to achieve from the day I set foot in Unilever.
Was this article helpful?
Let us know so we can craft better career advice for school leavers.
Unilever Early Careers Team
Would you like to work with and learn from the biggest brands in the world, bringing your purpose to life with your work? We care as much about the sustainability of our business as we do about the success of our brands
