When studying at College, I initially chose the apprenticeship pathway as I believed it was the right route for me. However, in the Winter of my Upper Sixth I did visit several universities as a back-up option and this led to me deciding to focus on the traditional UCAS route instead.

The careers team were incredibly supportive throughout the application process, and after receiving my results, I was delighted to secure a place at my first-choice university to study Criminology.

However, once I started the course, I soon realised that university wasn’t the right fit for me. After a lot of thought, I promised my parents that I would continue until Christmas before making any decisions, to give myself every opportunity to settle in. Unfortunately, a number of things didn’t improve and I made the difficult decision to leave during the Christmas break.

I then decided to take a gap year and to use that time to gain work experience while applying for degree apprenticeships. Alongside working at a National Trust property, I enjoyed some incredible experiences with friends. It turned out to be a fantastic year: I went skiing for the first time, visited New York City, worked at the Wimbledon Championships and created some amazing memories.

Initially, I focused my applications on Solicitor Degree Apprenticeships, inspired by my interest in the criminal law elements of my criminology studies. However, after receiving several rejections, I quickly realised just how competitive these programmes are. Rather than becoming discouraged, I took the opportunity to reassess the direction I wanted my career to take.

Reflecting on my time studying Criminology at College, I realised that the cybercrime modules had been the areas I found most engaging. That led me to explore cyber security as a career, and it quickly became clear that it was an industry where I could see myself building a future. I therefore shifted my focus towards Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeships and was fortunate enough to secure an interview with AvISO Consultancy Ltd, who operate nationally from their base in Kent.

Since joining AvISO, I’ve contributed to a range of exciting projects. These have included helping AvISO become the first UK ISO consultancy to achieve ISO 42001, the international standard for artificial intelligence management systems, and supporting the continued development of the AvISO and partner ISOvA websites through SEO-focused content and design improvements.

Looking back, my journey hasn’t been a straight line, but every experience has helped me better understand my strengths, interests and career aspirations. I’m excited to continue developing my skills and building my career in cyber security.

I wish I had known just how many different routes, pathways and roles are available through degree apprenticeships, as well as where to find the best opportunities and what recruiters look for in a CV and cover letter.

My advice would be to find a sector that interests you, whether it’s related to something you studied at college or something completely new. There are so many different roles and career paths out there, so explore your options, keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to consider something you hadn’t originally thought about.

Elliott Cheung
Reigate College: 2021-2023
Higher Education: BSc Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeship, Cranfield University while working at AvISO Consultancy Ltd