Starting my first apprenticeship was an exciting yet challenging experience that taught me lessons about resilience, adaptability, and professional growth. I am a Buying and Merchandising Apprentice at Amazon Fresh, where I support updating floor plans, managing product changes through delists and replacements, and supporting the team in range management across stores.

I’m the oldest daughter in my family and being the eldest comes with its own set of expectations and a sense of responsibility. Growing up, I learned early on the importance of discipline, especially through training in Muay Thai. Having a martial arts background helped me develop focus and resilience, skills I’ve relied on heavily in my apprenticeship journey.

Choosing the Apprenticeship Route

University was never really something I wanted. The idea of student debt didn’t appeal to me at all. I knew I wanted to work, gain experience, and get paid while learning. At first, I was only looking for marketing apprenticeships. Buying and merchandising wasn’t something I even knew existed! Then I came across Amazon’s apprenticeship posting and I thought it sounded interesting— I knew that Amazon’s reputation as a leading global company would be an advantage to have on my CV so I decided to send an application.

Applying and Preparing

I found the apprenticeship through the UCAS website. The application itself was straightforward enough—just sending in my CV. But then came the interviews. Amazon’s process was pretty long, and I remember being really stressed out preparing. I spent hours researching questions and practising answers.

Honestly, I was extremely nervous going in. But I reminded myself that even if I didn’t get it, at least I’d gain experience doing real interviews. That mindset helped take the pressure off a little. Even so, it was a tough, competitive process, and getting the offer at the end felt like a huge achievement.

Navigating the Early Challenges

Once I actually started, the biggest challenge was realising how little I knew about buying and merchandising. It was a completely new world to me. On top of that, Amazon’s culture is unique—fast-paced, highly focused on results, and very different from other companies.

There were moments early on when I seriously doubted myself. I’d be given responsibilities and think, “Am I really ready for this?” It was hard to feel confident when everything was unfamiliar. Even though I had that background in Muay Thai discipline, stepping into the corporate world was a completely different kind of test.

Learning Through Support and Practice

What really helped was my manager’s support. She encouraged me to ask questions and take my time learning. I also try to push myself to speak up and get involved, even when I don't feel fully comfortable. Over time, my day-to-day tasks started to make sense. I became more confident in making decisions and managing my workload.

I won’t lie and say I never struggle anymore. There are still days when I feel unsure. But overall, I’m much more comfortable in my role now, and I’ve learned not to let nerves hold me back.

A Moment I’m Proud Of

One project that stands out is when my manager asked me to take on updating our team’s wiki page as a side project. It hadn’t been properly maintained for years and was missing a lot of important information. It was a challenge because I had to figure out how to edit the source code without any formal training. I did all the research myself to learn how to make the changes. In the end, I turned it into a one-stop shop that everyone on the team now uses and finds really helpful. Knowing I was able to improve something that supports the whole team felt incredibly rewarding.

My Advice for Future Apprentices

If you’re thinking about applying for an apprenticeship, or you’re waiting to hear back, here’s what I’d tell you:

●     Put yourself out there early. Don’t wait to get comfortable before asking questions or joining in discussions. The longer you stay quiet, the harder it becomes to speak up later. Build that confidence from day one.

●     Be prepared for challenges. Even if you choose an apprenticeship over university because you want practical experience, that doesn’t mean it’ll be easy. You’ll have to learn on the job, adapt quickly, and sometimes deal with responsibilities you’re not sure you’re ready for.

●     Use your support systems. Whether it’s a manager, teammates, family, or friends—lean on them. Don’t try to figure everything out alone.

●     Stay disciplined. For me, Muay Thai taught me how to focus, stay consistent, and push through hard moments. Whatever helps you stay on track, use it.

What I Wish I’d Known Before Starting

If I could go back and tell myself one thing before starting, it would be to come in with a stronger mindset. I wish I’d been more mentally prepared for the fact that feeling out of my depth is normal at first, and that it’s okay to not know everything right away.

Final Thoughts

Choosing an apprenticeship was 100% the right decision for me. It gave me the chance to earn, learn, and gain real experience without the burden of debt. It hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve grown so much in my confidence, knowledge, and independence.

If you’re thinking about taking this path, don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. Be willing to learn, ask questions, and trust that you’ll grow into the role. Even when it feels scary, it’s worth it.

Angeline Sami

Buying and Merchandising Apprentice @ Amazon | OuterCircle Ambassador

You can find out more and connect with Angeline on LinkedIn.