Uni is NOT the only option for school leavers!

I'm Carly, Bruntwood's first social media apprentice learning through The Juice Academy, Tangerine PR's innovative apprenticeship scheme. Find out why I chose a social media apprenticeship over going to university and what makes the Academy different.

Going to university was never going to be an option for me.

When asked in my second year of college what I was planning to do after college, I instantly said: “Well, not Uni. What other options do I have?”

I didn’t really think there were apprenticeships in creative or unique careers, but I stuck it out and looked for ages to find something.

I came out of college and had to start from scratch with nothing – no plans for uni and no part time work.

I worked so hard to find unpaid work experience in areas such as social media, events and promotion before I discovered The Juice Academy and knew this was exactly what I needed to do.

When I started my process in applying and enrolling for the Academy, I knew that it would be tough competition but I was determined to prove there are other ways of starting a career than just going to uni.

I was really glad I got a place - I love this opportunity and think it will benefit me so much more than a pointless degree in social media. I’m on the job, gaining experience and I’m not getting myself into student debt!

My parents were extremely supportive and never pushed me into uni - they left it completely up to me and backed up every decision about my career path. They’re so proud of me for what I am doing, which means a lot to me.

I agree with my employer - hiring an apprentice is positive because ‘They learn from you, and you learn from them’.