Hollie

Why did you come to UTCN?

I came to UTCN because of the amazing relationship that the school has with the employers it works with. You not only get to meet employers but there are many networking events available where you can get acquainted with industry experts in the area. This then opens a huge number of doors to opportunities in the area and throughout the UK.

What did I like about UTCN?

UTCN provides a diverse learning environment by promoting academic skills alongside personal growth and incredible engagement opportunities. Opportunities like the Find Your Future programme, may not seem relevant to what you personally want to do at the time, but they give you a wide range of skills like leadership, teamwork and presentation skills.

Why did I apply for a degree level apprenticeship at GSK?

When I started UTCN, I was very set on going to university and I didn’t feel like there would be an apprenticeship for me out there. Throughout my time at UCTN, I considered my options and with the help of my teachers and the employer engagement team I put together my application which got me an offer in one of the biggest pharmaceutical companies worldwide. If I hadn’t attended UTCN, I wouldn’t be where I am now.

What do you do in your apprenticeship?

I work alongside the Quality Analysis team at Barnard Castle to ensure that the products that go out into the global market are safe for use and abide by regulations set out by governing bodies. In my time at GSK, I will rotate through all the areas of testing, starting with Sterile products. Through my first year, I will complete all my lab training whilst having study days to work towards my chemical science degree.

What advice would you give current UTCN students?

Take every opportunity that is offered to you. Although it might not be what you want to do, you learn valuable transferable skills that can be applied to whatever you want to do.