Meet the apprentice
Hi, I’m Pippa, and I’m currently completing my Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketing Apprenticeship at Commsave Credit Union. I’ve been on my apprenticeship journey for the past 18 months, gaining experience across different areas of marketing and developing skills that I can take forward into my career.
I haven’t always been in marketing. After leaving school, I went to college and completed a Level 3 qualification in Business Management and Administration. From there, I initially thought I wanted to go to university to study Psychology. However, after completing a couple of university applications, I realised that university wasn’t the right path for me.
While I was at college, I really enjoyed learning about marketing, so I decided to look into apprenticeships as an alternative. It wasn’t an easy journey! I spent around a year searching for the right one and had a couple of unsuccessful interviews along the way. Eventually, I was offered a job at Commsave Credit Union, which is where I work today.
Looking back, although the year before starting my apprenticeship felt like a bit of a rollercoaster, I’m so glad I stuck with it. Being given the opportunity to start my career through an apprenticeship is something I’m really grateful for, and I wouldn’t change the journey that got me here.
Before joining Commsave, I had very little marketing knowledge. While I was applying for apprenticeships, I completed a couple of courses through The Open University to build my knowledge and learn more about the industry. Even then, I don’t think I realised just how many different areas there are within marketing!
Over the past 18 months, I’ve learnt so much and, more importantly, I’ve discovered which areas I really enjoy. One of these is email marketing. Before starting, I thought I would enjoy the social media side of it the most; it’s been interesting to discover that email marketing is something I really enjoy.
My role also allows me to attend lots of different events, from networking events to community events where we promote Commsave. I really enjoy getting involved in the community, meeting new people, and seeing the different ways we can help and support people. I think my enjoyment of this side of the role comes from my background in retail, as I worked in retail during college and before starting my apprenticeship.
Overall, my apprenticeship has given me the chance to discover what I enjoy, build my confidence, and develop skills that I didn’t have when I started. I’m excited to see where the rest of my apprenticeship takes me, and how I can continue to grow within marketing.
The less professional side...
When I’m not working, I definitely like to keep myself busy and spend time with the people I love. I’d describe myself as quite outgoing and sociable, so I’m always up for making plans! Whether it’s going to the pub for a few drinks, heading out for the day, or simply catching up with family and friends, I’m happiest when I’m around people.
Music is a big part of my life, and my playlists are a bit of a mix, ranging from pop to rock. I’ve also been playing the guitar for over five years, which is something I really enjoy. I’d say I’m definitely more of a play-for-fun guitarist than someone you’ll see headlining anytime soon, but it’s something I’ve always enjoyed having as a hobby!
I also love going to the horse races, reading, and getting completely invested in a good TV series. My favourite shows include Gilmore Girls, Gossip Girl and Brooklyn Nine-Nine – and yes, they are very regularly on repeat! I’m also a big fan of shopping, exploring farmers’ markets, and finding new coffee shops to try. If I spot a coffee shop I haven’t been to before, there’s a very high chance I’ll be going in.
Of course, I can’t forget about my two dogs, Clover and Woody. They’re both Labrador-Cross-Springer Spaniels and, as much as I absolutely adore them, they are both completely crazy! They definitely bring plenty of fun (and chaos) into my life.
Overall, I’d say I’m someone who loves trying new things, being around people, and making the most of my time outside of work. I think all of these little things make up who I am and give me a good balance alongside work.