A little about Ralitsa’s apprenticeship…
Apprenticeship Title
Level 6 Professional Economics
Job title and employer
Economics Degree Apprentice at Ofcom
What are 3 skills you’ve learned so far?
Time management
Communication
Adaptability
What are your interests outside of work?
Spending time with friends and family
Being creative
Sport/gym
Exploring things outside of my comfort zone
____________________________________________________________________
What inspired you to choose an apprenticeship as your next step?
Doing a degree apprenticeship has been a goal that I set myself since secondary school. I’ve always known that just studying and going to university wasn’t for me. I learn best on the job when I can actually put in practice what I learn, rather than just studying and memorising a textbook. I wanted a pathway that would allow me to gain real experience while developing my skills professionally. Doing an apprenticeship gives me that balance of hands-on learning and studying which suits me more and motives me more to be the best I can be.
Is there anything in the job or industry you're especially keen to learn more about?
I am really keen on learning all the different types of work that Ofcom does and how economists support the decision-making and what different things we need to analyse and look at, while criticising and approving decisions. I am excited to understand how economic analysis joins together with policy to help make major regulatory decisions. I also want to build on my technical skills - especially in Excel and coding - so I can analyse data effectively and make meaningful contributions to my team.
What’s something you’re proud of so far?
I am really proud of how far I have come and being able to secure the degree apprenticeship in economics. It’s something I worked hard for and stayed committed to, despite all the setbacks, rejections and doubts along the way. I kept believing in myself and seeking ways to improve my interview skills which helped me build my confidence and allowed me to shine. I didn’t let rejection stop me. If anything, it boosted me to try harder for the next one.
"Seeing all the hard work pay off and seeing the smile on my parents face and how proud they are, has been one of my biggest achievements so far."
Did you face any challenges during your assessment or onboarding process?
I did face challenges throughout the assessment process. At first I found it difficult to structure my interview answers in the right way to be able show what made me stand out. I also found it very different balancing revision for A-levels and applying for apprenticeships. My time management skills weren’t the best and I procrastinated a lot, which led to me missing out on some opportunities and I faced quite a few rejections along the way. Visionpath provided me with a mentor which made a big difference in improving my time management skills, confidence and understanding on how to prepare myself.
"Visionpath really helped me throughout my application process, especially through their masterclasses in writing stronger CV’s and preparing for interviews."
What support have you received throughout your journey so far, and what’s made a difference?
I have been really lucky to have received so much support and help throughout my journey so far. My family have always encouraged and motivated me. My line manager is always there for me making sure I am settling in well and understanding everything, as well as feeling comfortable in my work and with the people around me. My buddies have really helped me settle into the university side of the apprenticeship and have supported me throughout the whole onboarding process. I have also been so lucky to be in a department where they provided training for Excel and so many other things that boosted my confidence when joining my team, and helped me develop and learn new skills. Finally, my mentor and Visionpath that have been there for me since day one, guiding me along the whole journey.
What moment made you realise you’d made the right decision choosing an apprenticeship?
Seeing how proud I made my parents and realising that all the sacrifices they made are paying off, because without them, I wouldn’t have been able to get this opportunity or even be in a position where I can try.
Connect with Ralitsa!
Here at Visionpath, our Ambassador Community is more than just a network, it’s a movement. Our ambassadors are current and former apprentices who are passionate about making a difference by sharing their real-life journeys to inspire the next generation.
Are you a current or former apprentice who wants to get involved in the movement? Email ambassadors@visionpath.co.uk to get started.
