To conclude National Apprenticeship Week, we spoke to our first ever apprentice Niamh Donnelly about how she is finding her Higher Apprenticeship in Public Relations.
- What attracted you to this apprenticeship?
I went to University in 2014 to study a degree in BA Multimedia Journalism but unfortunately due to a long-term injury I had to drop out during my first year. Following my recovery, I decided that going back to University wasn’t for me but I was still interested in working in the communications and media industry. So, when I saw this role advertised at Trinity Public Relations, I knew I had to apply!
- What is your PR highlight to date?
There have been so many great moments since I started at Trinity PR 8 months ago, it is hard to choose one! A few of my personal highlights include an appearance on BBC West Midlands Today television of the CEO of our client Cohesion Recruitment on GCSE Results Day 2018, placing a case study from the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young in the Evening Standard, working at an MP Health Summit for client Omnicell and securing a 4-page spread for healthcare company Contura in Women’s Running Magazine about the sensitive issue of stress urinary incontinence.
- Is it hard juggling office life and studies?
As an apprentice I am entitled to one study day per week when I usually complete webinars and work on my projects. I sometimes find it difficult to switch out of office mode on this day and often find myself checking work emails for journalist replies or updates on campaigns I am working on.
- Would you recommend an apprenticeship to other people looking to work in PR?
Yes, I would! I feel this apprenticeship has really given me opportunities and allowed me to build connections in the industry. I am getting valuable experience as well as up-to-date training from PR professionals and access to a wide range of courses provided by the PRCA, which is something new graduates don’t have.
- Do you think there is enough positive PR about apprenticeships?
Whilst at college I barely knew anything about apprenticeships and the ones I had heard of were generally within the construction/building industry or professions such as hairdressing. I think in the recent years, apprenticeships have become widely recognised but there is definitely more that needs to be done to encourage others to apply for these roles. I also think schools and careers advisers could be more proactive in promoting the range of apprenticeships on offer, especially as an alternative to University.
