Walking through the doors of La Retraite Roman Catholic Girls' School in Year 7, I never could have predicted where my journey would lead. By the time Year 9 arrived, a spark caught my attention: technology. Choosing Computer Science for my GCSEs wasn't just about picking a subject; it was the moment I decided to claim my space in the tech world. I absolutely loved it, passed it, and knew I wanted more.

Realising I Learnt Differently

I’ve always been a hands-on learner, someone who thrives by doing rather than just reading. So, instead of taking the traditional A-Level route, I made a bold choice: a T-Level in Digital Production, Design, and Development. The promise of a real industry placement was exactly what I was looking for.

Even so, walking into sixth form that September, my stomach was in knots. I was incredibly nervous and had no idea what to expect. Looking back, I couldn't have asked for a better class - but the real battle was overcoming my own anxiety.

Dealing with Sixth Form Anxiety Head-On

I knew that if I wanted a successful career in tech, I couldn't stay hidden in the background. I had to learn how to talk to people, even if it terrified me.

To combat my anxiety and fear of networking, I started forcing myself out of my comfort zone. I began attending every technology and networking event I could find, connecting with organisations like Young Professionals, Motivez, and Next Tech Girls.

At first, it was daunting. But with every event I attended, my confidence grew. I learnt how to introduce myself, how to ask questions, and how to communicate effectively. To sharpen my tools even further, I enrolled in a soft skills course with Placer Skills Academy.

That intentional growth paid off sooner than I expected. When it came time to interview for an industry placement with Lloyds Banking Group, I didn't crumble under the pressure. I felt prepared, confident, and ready for anything. I secured the placement.

My time at Lloyds was incredible. I absolutely loved my team and met so many inspiring professionals. Standing there, collaborating with real tech experts, it hit me: All those scary networking events, all those times I pushed past my comfort zone - it had all been worth it.

Managing the Chaos Without Burning Out

Year 13 is notoriously difficult, but my final year was a true test of resilience. I was staring down massive final exams, but I was also fiercely chasing degree apprenticeships.

My biggest challenge was managing it all simultaneously: revising for exams, researching companies, writing tailored applications, attending intense assessment centres, and sitting through interviews. It was a complete pressure cooker. To survive without burning out, I had to master the art of time management. I scheduled my days strictly, ensuring I gave 100% to my studies while still leaving breathing room for my mental health.

Amidst that chaos, my journey took an amazing turn. I became a Brand Ambassador for Next Tech Girls. Suddenly, the girl who used to be terrified of networking was speaking on panels and even presenting directly to the Department for Education, sharing my personal experience with T-Levels.

The Moment Everything Clicked

Recently, I was out creating content for Next Tech Girls when my phone rang. It was a representative from Vodafone Three.

They were calling to give me an official offer for their apprenticeship.

In that moment, an overwhelming wave of joy hit me. I thought about all the trials, the tribulations, the stressful late nights, and the moments of self-doubt. I had finally made it to exactly where I wanted to be. This wasn’t just a job offer; it was the official beginning of my next major chapter.

My Message to You: Quality Over Quantity

If I could travel back in time and speak to my younger self - or to anyone currently trying to break into apprenticeships - here is what I would say:

1. Dive Out of Your Comfort Zone

I didn’t get these opportunities by staying quiet or hiding away. I had to step out, speak up, and embrace the awkwardness of growth. I know it’s hard, and I know it can be scary, but remember: it’s everyone's first time living life. Don't hold yourself back. Live your life to the absolute fullest and chase what scares you.

2. Choose Quality Over Quantity

When you start applying for apprenticeships, it’s easy to panic-apply to fifty different places. Don't do it. You will burn out. Focus on quality over quantity. Apply only to the roles and companies that truly resonate with you. Don't pick something just because it looks prestigious on a CV; make sure you are choosing to do something you genuinely love.

Be resilient, keep pushing, and trust your journey. If a nervous Year 12 student can transform into an incoming tech apprentice at Vodafone, you can absolutely do it too.

Liesel Tandoh

Incoming Network Engineering Apprentice @ VodafoneThree | T-Level Digital Production, Design and Development | Member of BAN | T-Level Ambassador | Next Tech Girls Brand Ambassador

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