Hollie Bell - Cumbria Talent Force

Q&A

— Give a short overview of your career journey after school

After I finished my GCSEs, I joined Cockermouth School's sixth form and studied Chemistry, Psychology and English Literature at A Level. During sixth form, I decided that university wasn't the path that I wanted to go down, so I began researching degree apprenticeships. For some time, I had no idea what career I wanted until I done a week of work experience in Yr12 in a lab. My passion for chemistry developed throughout my time at sixth form, and I began searching for science apprenticeships in Yr13. I applied for a Level 5 Technician Scientist apprenticeship with Cavendish Nuclear and I got offered the position.

— What do you love about your job?

I love how practical my job is, working in a wet chemistry lab isn't your typical working environment. As an apprentice, I have the opportunity to rotate labs every six months allowing me to build my knowledge and skills in wet chemistry labs as well as counting/spectrometry labs. During my apprenticeship, there has been lots of opportunities and experiences such as becoming a STEM ambassador, attending a personal development course, networking with other apprentices during a team building residential and many more!

— What piece of advice would you give to young people about finding their best next step?

My main piece of advice is to not put too much pressure on yourself. If you're unsure on a specific career path then keep your options open. I done this by choosing a variety of A Levels that covered a range of different skills. Work experience is key for gaining an insight into different industries and helping you decide what career is right for you. Try and gain as much work experience as you can, especially if you want an apprenticeship as employers will focus on this more than your grades. It is also useful to view work experience as something that can help you rule certain careers out, you will still build key transferrable skills even if the career isn't for you.

— What three essential skills do you think have helped you to be successful in your job?

Speaking, Problem Solving, Aiming High.

— What advice would you give to someone considering working in your industry?

When starting out as a first year apprentice, it is easy to feel out of your depth- especially in the scientific industry. It is crucial that you have confidence in your ability and view everyday as a learning opportunity. I would recommend work experience in a lab, as it can be hard to picture what working in a lab would be like as opposed to studying the subject. When starting your career as a lab analyst, you are not expected to be an expert. I have learnt so much during the three years of my apprenticeship and my knowledge and skills have been built over time.

— What is the best piece of advice you have been given that has helped you on your career journey?

I was lucky to have an amazingly supportive chemistry teacher who pushed me to take chemistry A Level, even when I didn't have confidence in my ability. This grew over time and I had the resilience to persevere when it got tough, a skill which you need for studying A Level chemistry! It is important to stay positive, push yourself to aim high, reach out when you're struggling and to believe in yourself. If it wasn't for my teachers motivation and support, I wouldn't be on the career path that I am on now and for that I am beyond grateful.