If you’re still figuring out your next step after school, college, or university, I’ve been in your position—unsure, applying everywhere, and questioning what path was right for me. My journey into my first role wasn’t straightforward, but it taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying consistent even when things feel uncertain.

Where It All Started

I was in sixth form when I first learned about apprenticeships. At the time, university felt like the default option, so I still completed my UCAS applications alongside everyone else. But I wasn’t fully convinced it was the right path for me.

I wanted to continue learning, but I also wanted real-world experience. I didn’t want to spend years studying without understanding how businesses actually operate. Apprenticeships stood out because they offered both—a degree and hands-on experience.

So I decided to keep my options open and applied for both universities and apprenticeships.

Learning the Reality of the Corporate World

One thing I quickly realised was that I wasn’t fully prepared for the corporate environment.

On the surface, working in a large organisation sounded exciting, but I didn’t yet understand workplace expectations, professional communication, or how to present myself confidently. To build that understanding, I took on multiple work experience opportunities.

These experiences helped me develop essential skills, from communication to teamwork, while also giving me insight into how professional environments operate. More importantly, they helped me build confidence and better understand what employers were actually looking for.

The Highs and Lows of the Journey

The process of finding my first opportunity came with both good and bad days.

There were moments where I felt I was making progress—getting interviews, improving my applications, and gaining experience. But there were also setbacks: rejections, unanswered applications, and periods of doubt.

It’s easy to take rejection personally, especially when you’re putting in consistent effort. But over time, I learned that rejection is part of the process, not a reflection of your ability. Those challenges built resilience and pushed me to keep improving.

Finding the Right Opportunity

After completing a Business and Media BTEC, I knew I wanted a path that combined education with practical experience. When I came across the Shell Apprenticeship Programme, it immediately stood out.

The degree aligned perfectly with my interests, particularly in marketing, and the role offered a balance between learning and real responsibility. What attracted me most was Shell’s focus on innovation and sustainability, along with the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects on a larger scale.

It felt like the right fit for both my personal and professional goals.

Preparing for the Application Process

I approached the application process with intention.

I researched Shell’s values, business areas, and the structure of the apprenticeship programme to understand what they were looking for. Preparation became a key focus.

I practiced competency-based questions and used examples from my BTEC coursework and part-time roles to demonstrate relevant skills. I also carefully tailored my CV and application responses to reflect my interest in marketing and the company’s wider goals.

Taking the time to prepare properly gave me more confidence and allowed me to present myself more effectively.

Starting My Apprenticeship

Today, I work as a Marketing Associate Apprentice within Shell Mobility.

My role involves supporting marketing campaigns for fuel services and assisting with B2B communications and customer events.

When I first started, I was unsure of what to expect. I worried about whether I would fit in or feel out of place.

However, my first impression quickly changed that.

The team was welcoming and supportive, which helped me settle in faster than I anticipated. Instead of feeling like an outsider, I felt like I genuinely belonged from the beginning.

“The team made me feel I truly belonged”

What stood out most was the level of responsibility I was given early on. I expected to ease in slowly, but I was trusted with meaningful tasks and given exposure to impactful work from day one.

What I Learned Early On

Looking back, there are a few things I wish I had known before starting.

Firstly, the level of responsibility apprentices receive can be much greater than expected. Being trusted early on accelerates your learning and development.

Secondly, the importance of a strong support network cannot be overstated. Having mentors and colleagues who are willing to guide and support you makes a significant difference, especially when adjusting to a new environment.

These factors played a key role in helping me grow both professionally and personally.

A Defining Moment

One of my most memorable experiences so far was sending my first monthly network update to customers.

While it may seem like a small task, it represented something bigger. Knowing that my work was being shared with customers across the network made me realise the real impact of what I was doing.

It was a moment that reinforced the trust placed in apprentices and highlighted how even early contributions can make a difference.

Advice for Future Apprentices

If you’re considering an apprenticeship, my biggest advice is to be proactive.

Take every opportunity to learn and develop. You don’t need to have everything figured out—what matters is your willingness to grow.

There will be both positive and challenging moments, but staying consistent and resilient is key. Progress doesn’t always happen immediately, but every step you take builds towards something bigger.

Ask questions, build relationships, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. These are the experiences that will help you develop the most.

An apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience while working towards a qualification. It allows you to build practical skills, develop professionally, and understand the working world in a way that traditional routes may not always provide.

Final Thoughts

If you’re still searching for your first opportunity, don’t lose confidence.

I was once in the same position—navigating uncertainty, applying for roles, and trying to figure out my path. It takes time, effort, and resilience, but the right opportunity will come.

Your journey doesn’t have to follow a set path. What matters is that you stay consistent, keep learning, and continue moving forward.

Because all it takes is one opportunity to change everything.

Yunus Ahmed-Khan

Degree Apprentice: Shell (Marketing Associate)

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