Interview with Olivia McCluskey: A Modern Apprentice

Olivia joined Minster Law Scotland at the beginning of the year as a Modern Apprentice, undertaking a Digital Applications Modern Apprenticeship.  Her role at Minster is within the First Response Team.

1. Hi Olivia, you’ve been working as an apprentice with us now for 6 weeks, can you describe your experience so far in one word?
   I would say it’s been really exciting
2. Has it been what you expected?
   My role and responsibilities has been what I expected as it was all explained to me really clearly during the interview staged but actually doing the job has been much better that I could have ever expected.
3. Tells us what made you want to do a Modern Apprenticeship?
   I went to university straight after I finished school however, I discovered quite quickly that it wasn’t for me.  I started looking into other routes to work and the more I learned about apprenticeships, the more I knew it was a better choice for me.
   
   The chance to learn whilst working was something I really liked the idea of and I felt that this would be a much more motivational and positive experience.I made the decision to go for it and I couldn’t be more thankful I did. I’m now learning through hands on, practical experience from a brilliant and super supportive team, and at the end of it I will receive an SCQF level 6 qualification from the SQA.
4. And what attracted you to the role here at Minster Law Scotland?
   As soon as I heard about this role, straight away I had a gut feeling it was for me. It really excited me that Minster law Scotland was a relatively new business and already growing.I knew the role would require lots of client contact and great customer care and not only do I believe this is something I would be good at but it’s also something I really enjoy.
5. What have you enjoyed so far?
   There’s been so much I have enjoyed, there’s so many different aspects to my role and the business.  I love speaking to clients and helping them.  I always try to provide them very best support and customer care as I know they have just been involved in a really difficult and sometimes traumatizing event.
6. What’s been your biggest lesson?
   Really understanding the impact an accident can have on a client and on their life was a real eye opener, seeing how Minster Law Scotland provides them with the best experience are was truly inspiring.
7. How have you found the balance between your course work and your role at Minster?
   So far, I have found it quite easy. I can make time within my day to commit to my  coursework. My Manager and QA are very helpful with it too.
8. What would you like to do after you complete your apprenticeship?
   Eventually I’d love to handle my own claims one day.
9. What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone who’s thinking about doing an apprenticeship?
   Just go for it, nothing changes if nothing changes. If you’re considering it my advice is to take the leap, you won’t regret it.