Five months prior to joining CHIC, I graduated with a BSc in Economics and Finance in London. Originally from Malaysia, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity to apply for a Graduate Visa and gain some valuable work experience in the UK. After spending most of my life studying, gaining knowledge for a career, it was time to step into this new world! I was excited, yet nervous, to face new challenges. My circumstances of being on a Graduate Visa, with the uncertainty that came with it, were stressful as I did not have a clear and stable career path. Opportunities are also significantly harder to come by as a foreigner.

Out of sheer luck, I decided to move out of London and landed in Birmingham where I heard about CHIC, which was advertising for a Graduate Apprentice. I was successful in securing this placement. Since joining CHIC, I’ve been able to rotate my learning, in 6-month cycles, between several different teams. This has helped me to understand how each team contributes to the organisation, building my skill set immensely.  Given my minimal experience, I’ve been extremely privileged to have worked alongside many talented experts within the sector. Over the course of the year, I have participated in a total of 7 training sessions that have benefited me and will support my career path moving forwards.

My apprenticeship has provided a platform to identify my learning needs and career development goals.  I now have a comprehensive set of skills that I wish to improve upon, as well as new skills I’m still eager to learn. Completing this rotational programme will not only open many new doors for me, but will help me to gain clarity when it comes to securing a permanent job role, that is most suited for me, in the near future.

I am extremely thankful for the guidance and support provided by the CHIC team!

-Nik Adi