Being a Trainee Project Manager

Born at St. Mary’s Hospital in 2000, I have lived on the Isle of Wight all my life. I went to Godshill Primary School and then Christ the King College, where I stayed for both my GCSEs and A-Levels. Throughout my education, I struggled and stressed a lot about what my future looked like. I was surrounded by friends who knew exactly what they wanted to do, and I had no idea. To add to this, living at home with two older sisters who also had their futures planned out, only increased the pressure I was feeling.

University played a vital role in both of my sisters’ career paths. By the time they were fifteen, they even knew details such as what grades they needed to get to be accepted into their first-choice university. The stress I was feeling over this drove me into resenting the education system, and I began dreading school days. At this point in my life, the only thing I was certain on was the fact that I did not want to go to university, which at the time seemed as though it was the scariest decision ever. During your A-Levels, the pressure you are under to apply for university is immense, and teachers often push you to apply to university, even if you aren’t sure that it is what you want to do.

I have just finished my first month of being a Trainee Project Manager in Economic Development, and it would be fair to say that working for the Council has surpassed any expectation I had. Not only have I found that I am encouraged to learn, and think for myself, but I am always supported by everyone around me and I am confident that should I need help, there is always someone willing to give advice. It is a very friendly environment, and I am so excited to meet many more people and learn as much as possible about anything Project Manager related.

Growing up in a small Island community made me feel as though I would have to move to the mainland to have any real chance in finding a good job opportunity that could turn into a future career. When I came across the application for this job, it was originally posted with the intention of one person being hired at the end of the application process. It is so amazing to now be working for the Council, with four other people who also got a job out of this opportunity. To me, this really highlights the fact that the Council wants there to be more opportunities on the Island. My job has completely changed my outlook on Island life, as it has proved that it is possible to begin a career without moving. I have always been very focused on working, and have had jobs since the age of twelve. Although I am not a fan of education, I enjoy learning things in a working environment – which is why this job is perfect for me!