Holly struggled to secure an apprenticeship, facing many rejections before landing her dream role. Having always had a passion to help people, Holly used this and her experience of securing her own dream apprenticeship to support and guide others through the process.
In this episode of STEM Minds we caught up with Holly Hobbs, an entrepreneur and STEM enthusiast. Whose recurring rejection led her to launch her own business, Apprentivia – a place for apprentices to seek help and advice in securing and pursuing their dream apprenticeship.
Holly believed an apprenticeship was the right option: “I always knew the traditional university route wasn’t for me.. I always wanted to get straight into a job and gain real life experience.”
Holly explains that the hands-on experience gained from an apprenticeship is completely invaluable. You can gain mentors and new corrections, put into practice what you’re learning, and receive a qualification for free.
“I used to feel a bit confused and lost because university was the path everyone was going down..I never clicked with that idea and it never sparked an interest within me,” explained Holly.
Holly believes the main reason apprenticeships are often disregarded in schools is because often, teachers have no experience with apprenticeships themselves and therefore find it difficult to be advocates. They aren’t connected with the route and are lacking information and are lacking passion for apprenticeships.
From personal experience, Holly found teachers and career advisors to be inexperienced with apprenticeships. When they speak about them it’s quite broad.
Holly attended at information evening at college about degree apprenticeships, where she realised their competitive nature and the lack of support available.
Having faced over 30 rejections and realising she wasn’t alone, Holly wanted to help others.
Apprentivia helps you to secure your dream apprenticeship providing video content and free resources to inspire, motivate and inform.
“We’ve got loads planned in the future, but for now, we have our e-book and social media accounts,” explains Holly.
It’s vital to remember there are times when being rejected is going to suck. There are times when you’ll want to give up.
One big thing Holly told herself when facing rejection was that it obviously wasn’t right for her.
She exclaimed: “When I look back in hindsight, I’m so glad I didn’t get it. I’ve had the opportunity to experience retail life and consulting and corporate life.
“All I can say is what’s meant for you won’t pass you by.”
Listen to the full episode (season 1, episode 2) wherever you listen to your podcasts.
