My journey with the Future Apprentice of the Year Award began in the most unexpected way. Just a week before the deadline, someone from the targetjobs UK team reached out to me on LinkedIn with a link to the application. Honestly, at first, I barely gave it a second thought. The deadline was so close, and knowing how competitive the award would be, I doubted I had a chance. But something inside me said, Why not? So, I threw my hat in the ring, submitting my application the day before the deadline, mostly just to see what might happen. Little did I know, that spontaneous decision would change my life forever.

Despite applying at the last minute, the application process surprised me. It wasn’t just about listing achievements or ticking boxes, it was about telling my story, reflecting on my goals, values, and the experiences that shaped me. It felt genuine, encouraging me to be authentic instead of perfect. That was refreshing and made me believe that maybe, just maybe, I belonged.

Then came the moment I never expected, I was selected as a semi-finalist. Out of hundreds, I was in the top 20. I was stunned, overwhelmed, and incredibly proud. That recognition ignited a fire in me. Just a week later, I was driving five hours from Edinburgh to Derby for the assessment centre, heart pounding with excitement and nerves.

The day was intense. Interviews, a technical presentation, problem-solving challenges, it tested every part of me and pushed my limits. But instead of breaking me, it made me stronger. I soaked up every moment, knowing this was exactly where I was meant to be. When I found out a week later that I’d made it to the finals, it felt like the universe was telling me I was on the right path.

Sadly, the awards ceremony in London clashed with my Higher Computing exam, so I couldn’t attend. Missing out on that celebration stung, especially knowing how special the event was. But by then, I was already bursting with confidence, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose. The journey had transformed me.

What blew me away even more was what came after. Just for being a finalist, Rolls-Royce offered me a conditional degree apprenticeship starting in September 2026. This wasn’t a consolation prize, it was a genuine opportunity, because Rolls-Royce saw something in all the finalists. For me, someone who’s dreamed of aerospace engineering for as long as I can remember, this was a dream within reach.

To think it all started with a simple LinkedIn message and a last-minute decision! Since then, I’ve grown so much, not just in skills, but in believing in myself. I’ve learned how to present my story confidently, to trust my voice, and to know that I belong in spaces that once felt out of reach. My CV has never looked stronger, but more importantly, I feel stronger.

If you’re thinking about applying, don’t hesitate. Even if you’re late. Even if you doubt yourself. Doubt is the biggest enemy. Whether you win or not, the process will change you. Be authentic. Share what makes your journey unique. Own your challenges and your wins. You never know who’s listening, or what doors might open.

This experience taught me that sometimes, the best things happen when you take a chance on yourself. I did. And it changed everything.

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