When you’re 18, everyone suddenly wants to know: “What’s next?” Most people expect the answer to be university. It’s what schools push, what friends talk about, what family members assume you’ll do. And for some, it’s the right path. But for others, it just doesn’t feel like it fits. That was the case for Ryan, our trainee sales executive.
Breaking the ‘One Path Only’ Mindset
Affter studying Chemistry, Maths, and Further Maths at sixth form, university seemed inevitable. “I was always told it was the next step,” he says. But once he got a taste of independent learning, he realised it wasn’t for him. He wanted something more practical and without the burden of student debt. At first, choosing an apprenticeship felt like a step back as friends headed to university. Soon, Ryan discovered the opposite: it was a different, and equally valuable, route forward.
Discovering Another Way
Ryan first heard about apprenticeships when a speaker visited his school in Year 12. That idea stayed with him. After sixth form, he chose a route that offered hands-on learning and a clear sense of purpose: “I wanted to earn and learn and have real CV experience.” While friends started university, Ryan began building a career with structure and independence.
Making an Impact from Day One
In his role in the sales office, what started as a focused role has grown into a range of responsibilities, including pricing enquiries, supplier coordination, and stock management, showing how much he has developed. Early on, he noticed inefficiencies in the process and decided to act: “I brainstormed ideas until I made one that worked.” His solution streamlined workflows and saved time, a clear example of how fresh thinking can drive progress. Ryan also builds strong customer relationships by speaking directly with clients and understanding their needs, adding a personal touch that strengthens trust.
Growing Beyond the Job
Starting out, Ryan felt the weight of being younger and less experienced: “A sense of imposter syndrome,” he admits. But that faded as he gained confidence through real responsibility, securing his first sale, building client connections, and contributing ideas that mattered. Supported by an experienced team, he quickly developed technical knowledge and learned to step out of his comfort zone: “Despite it being a sales job, it develops me as a person as I can use my own ideas to advance the company.”
Redefining Success
Ryan’s story proves that success isn’t about following the crowd, it’s about finding where you can thrive and make a difference. Apprenticeships offer an alternative path for those who want practical learning, financial independence, and a clear career trajectory. As Ryan puts it: “It’s alright to take a step back or two to go three steps forward.” His ability to spot obstacles, propose solutions, and confidently engage with clients shows maturity beyond his years. With adaptability and a hunger to learn, Ryan embodies the qualities businesses need to grow, and he’s certainly one to watch as his career progresses.
Thinking About Your Next Step?
If you’re unsure about university or you’ve started a course and realised it’s not for you, that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It just means you’re figuring out what works for you. Ryan’s advice? “Look for a supportive employer and be confident when you start, let them know if you have ideas. It’s okay to take a different route, find what works for you, and don’t be afraid to make it your own”
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