9th February 2023 Bridge - Shola's story
‘Have confidence in yourself,’ is one piece of advice that Shola, one of our Bridge programme students, who achieved a degree apprenticeship with one of our 2022 financial services partners, would give to anyone thinking about applying to the programme with The Talent Foundry.
Shola was struggling with her self-belief and feelings of imposter syndrome, having had applications knocked back by other companies for apprenticeship programmes, and was worried that she might not ever secure a place.
It was when Shola applied to be part of the Bridge Programme, and worked through the coaching and finally secured her apprenticeship that she felt, ”Wow! I’ve managed to do it. Maybe it was meant to be that I was going to get my top choice of apprenticeship in the end. It gave me a real boost.”
Shola’s Head of Sixth Form sent her the Bridge programme details as they thought the programme would be a good fit for her.
Shola tells us, “The programme was really professional. It showed me what the world of work could be like, and how to communicate professionally. It bridged a gap of knowledge for me.”
The most inspiring part of the programme for Shola, was being able to speak to existing management staff, ”it demonstrated that the apprenticeship could make me a real professional, and work through a career pathway.”
She also enjoyed being able to speak to other students in the same situation as her, “it made me feel connected and not so alone.
“Learning new skills was the most helpful part. Particularly, the mock interviews with someone from the company, who went over my mannerisms and tips on how to improve interview technique.”
Shola also said that the bursary she qualified for was a huge help in paying for transport to and from university and work.
Her last tip to other students to complete the Bridge booklet as she progressed through the programme. She kept her notes as reminders about what companies look for and how to match her personal skills to that was also beneficial.
How does Shola feel about her future?
“I love being part of a company that cares about the whole person, and not just about your grades. Partnering with The Talent Foundry just shows they care more than just about A stars. They want a well-rounded person and care about your next step.”
And on a personal note, she adds:
“My LinkedIn profile is full of new business connections for the future. I wouldn’t have that if I’d just gone to university. I would never have had these different experiences or met so many people.”