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.
