Tell us a bit about you?

My name is Jenny, I’m 24 and I currently work as an Assistant Project Manager within the Projects Team in Workplace Division. When I’m not working or studying, I love an adventure, last minute city break, trip to the beach or walk with my dog, Murphy!

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Did you study after leaving school?

After leaving school, I studied Maths, Statistics and Finance at Strathclyde University. I had four unconditional offers for different Universities, and I enjoyed maths in school, I thought it was the only option and available next steps. In my opinion, this was considered the norm if you had the grades for university or college.

I soon realised Studying Maths at University wasn’t for me but was scared to admit it. I finally gained the courage after failing my exams; it gave me the push I needed to take action and withdraw from my course. I’ve always loved structure and routine and studying fulltime wasn’t fulfilling this for me.

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When did you join the Scottish Government and what was the role?

At this point I was lost and didn’t know what to do next. I came across the Modern Apprenticeship programme at the Scottish Government. The combination of working and studying really appealed to me. I applied and got the job as a Front of House Team Member Modern Apprentice and began in August 2019. The Modern Apprentice programme was the perfect introduction to the Corporate environment, I learnt a variety of skills and gained confidence along the way.

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What did you go on to do after your Modern Apprenticeship?

Following completion of the programme, I was hungry for more and began to research the Graduate Apprenticeship Programme. It felt right and different to my first attempt at University. I spoke with my Line Manager at the time, who was really supportive and received the appropriate approval. I also met with a representative from Heriot-Watt University to find out more before applying.

In September 2020, I began my Business Management Graduate Apprenticeship at Heriot Watt. I have thrived on the balance of work and study, working four days a week and studying one. I have loved being able to apply my learning to my job, and vice versa.

At times it has been really challenging balancing a busy day job, deadlines and a social life, but the end goal has always motivated me to continue. I have enjoyed the opportunity to research parts of Scottish Government that I knew little about for various assignments. This has helped to develop my understanding of how a large scale organisation such as the Scottish Government works and build connections internally also.

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What have you enjoyed about undertaking a Graduate Apprenticeship?

I have loved networking with other Graduate Apprenticeship students from a wide range of sectors and hearing about their experiences, as well as forming relationships with those on my course who also work for Scottish Government. It has been really helpful bouncing ideas of each other and sharing my thoughts, particularly in fourth year.

As part of the Graduate Apprenticeship programme, I was encouraged to have a workplace mentor. I have loved building a relationship with my workplace mentor over the years and calling upon them for support and guidance. Another relationship I am grateful for throughout this journey.

I am currently writing my Dissertation, something I never thought I would say! My Dissertation topic is “Is Scottish Government ready for Generation-Z employees in the Workplace”, a topic I am very passionate about. August 2024 I will complete my Graduate Apprenticeship, December 2024 I will graduate with over four years work experience under my belt, and debt free! I am proud of my journey and how far I’ve come, all thanks to the Modern and Graduate Apprenticeship programmes.

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What are your ambitions for after your apprenticeship?

Following completion of my Graduate Apprenticeship, I look forward to utilising all I have learnt and apply my learning to the job. I will continue to be an advocate for the Modern Apprenticeship and Graduate Apprenticeship schemes, and endeavour to raise awareness wherever possible.

On completion of my degree, I will be able to focus on work and give it 100% without having to worry about balancing studying alongside. I aspire to discover new opportunities, including upskilling, training and volunteering.

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What does a typical day look like for you?

I have a 5 year old Border Collie who has the energy levels of a puppy, so before I can think about work, I take him out on a big walk, I then either travel into one of our offices or get set up to work from home. I love hybrid working, but an office day is my favourite, I love the chance to meet with my team and contractors on site. A typical day usually involves multiple team meetings and task time. At present, I am supporting the exit and relocation from Atlantic Quay 4, so I have spent a lot of time in Atlantic Quay 4 & 5. I find it really helpful being on site of the projects I’m working on, to see things in real life and track progress. Additionally, I enjoy engaging with stakeholders and answering any questions they have. When it’s home time, and I have deadlines approaching, I will do a couple of hours of uni work, this helps me stay on track and organised.

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What is your working pattern?

For the last four years, during my Graduate Apprenticeship my working pattern has been four days of working with one study day, to attend lectures and complete coursework. My study has varied between a Monday and a Friday but a Friday is definitely my preference.

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What first attracted you to applying for an apprenticeship at the Scottish Government?

The initial attraction was the balance of working and studying, gaining valuable work experience whilst earning was really appealing. I love learning and didn’t want to sacrifice that but studying full time just wasn’t for me, the apprenticeships scheme were the perfect balance. I also loved the idea of working for the Scottish Government, and learning more about how the government is run operationally. I also knew the organisation would present a wide range of opportunities and help me decide where I wanted to take my career.

The Modern and Graduate Apprenticeships are two of the best things I’ve done. They have opened a number or doors for me and allowed me to develop a range of skills and grow in confidence both personally, professionally and academically.

The organisation and all my colleagues, throughout my apprenticeships, have been hugely supportive and encouraging, I am very grateful.

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What do you think is the best thing about working at Scottish Government?

The best thing about working at Scottish Government for me is the flexible working. It has been particularly helpful during my apprenticeship journey and allowed me to finish earlier some days to allow me to focus on my studies in the afternoon, or take a longer lunch and get some fresh air going on a walk!

Additionally, I love working for an organisation that encourages work life balance and cares for their employees wellbeing.

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What career advice would you give your younger self?

I have a lot of reflections upon my journey and advice I would give to myself including, there is no wrong path, just because you have the grades to go to university doesn’t mean you have to and don’t rush any decisions.

There is no race to reach that positive destination, like you are sometimes made to feel in school, all will fall into place! If you’re doing something you don’t enjoy, don’t be afraid to make a change!