Khadiza Begum, Louis Reece-Farren and Mayan Christophides are doing business-to-business sales apprenticeships at various organisations through Middlesex University
Khadiza, 21, did a BA in management practice (business-to-business sales) at BT. She said: “I did well at school and then I went to university to study history. However I was quite uncertain about the job prospects I would have after graduating. I felt that on-the-job experience was more important for me than a traditional academic route, so I left my course.”
“When I heard about degree apprenticeships, they sounded like a better fit for me. You get a degree, you get experience, and you get good money at the same time.”
“Now, after my apprenticeship with BT in partnership with Middlesex University, I’m already earning a good salary as well as gaining tons of experience. I’m not sure what I want to do next yet, but I’ve already got my foot in the door at a big corporate company and have gained experience in several different sectors, so I’m excited about what the future holds.”
Louis, who is doing the same degree and apprenticeship as Khadiza, said: “I started the degree apprenticeship because I wanted to earn money while I was learning valuable skills and working for a business that’s well established in their industry.”
“It’s allowed me to work with loads of different people in a professional environment as well as opening doors in other industries I might be interested in.”
“I’d say if you’re considering doing a degree apprenticeship with Middlesex, just go for it. It’s a great way to kick-start your career in a fascinating environment.”
Mayan, a business-to-business sales apprentice with Royal Mail, said: “The degree element is 100% important to me. It’s something I always wanted to achieve.”
“This apprenticeship degree with Royal Mail and Middlesex has really opened my eyes. I wouldn’t have thought it was possible for sales to even be a profession. And I’ve learnt so much. I’ve been working on ethical selling and I’m enjoying every minute. The studying and employment partnership has worked really well together.”
“My advice to others would be to find a company that will look after you. Do your research and make sure that the company will support your studies as well as develop you at work.”
Find out more about the apprenticeships that Middlesex University delivers via www.mdx.ac.uk/apprentice
