So it’s official, my first week in the office! 18 years old and just finishing my A Levels, who would’ve thought that an apprenticeship in fundraising is where my career would begin. I’ve never been sure on what I wanted to do as a career, however I was always sure that I wanted a career ‘helping others’. I was constantly undecided whether to go to University or not, even though I was accepted I decided that the opportunity Fundraising Central offered me was too good to turn away and I am already thrilled that this is the pathway I chose.
I had a stereotypical view on what fundraising was about, thinking it was all about people getting sponsored to run a marathon or ride a bike in aid for charity! Well of course, people getting stuck in and passionate about something they believe strongly in has a massive impact on fundraising. But now I can see there is a lot more to fundraising such as bid writing, applications, hard work and dedication! I have already seen the impact that money has on charities and how it helps them grow and achieve their goals. Money does make a difference is something I’ve already learnt working at Fundraising Central and that with money and direction anything is achievable. It is eye opening to see the change that money can make to charities, whether it be a few thousands to a hundred thousand.
My colleagues, Stephanie and Louisa have already made me feel at home in the office. They have been extremely helpful with expanding my knowledge in fundraising over the summer in my induction days and making sure I understand what they’re talking about. I feel confident about completing my apprenticeship knowing I have their advice to guide me. Their passion for fundraising is inspiring. I can see how much time they put into their work, and how pleased they are when an application is successful. I am excited to feel the same accomplishment when I become more involved with the clients.
On my second official day I went on a Charnwood forum event where I was definitely chucked in at the deep end, which is the best way to learn. Simply because I had to put myself out there and create conversation with people I had no idea about or what they did, thankfully everybody there was lovely and I learnt so much about them and their businesses in such a small space of time. I was proud that I managed to successfully get there in one piece (even though someone did smack into my wing mirror!) and surviving the whole day. When returning to the office I came back to an email from someone at the event, which made me feel even more positive about the day as someone took their time out to email me!
My eyes have already opened to the world of fundraising in such a short time, I can’t wait for my knowledge to expand and explore fundraising at a much more detailed level. I am excited to learn and I can’t wait to make a difference! To look back on this blog once I’ve finished my apprenticeship will be fantastic to see how little I knew to how much I will have learnt.
