One Degree Alumni Podcast Ep.14
Ep.14: Kyle M, an alumna from 2017 (Westminster Academy, London)
Welcome to the One Degree Alumni Podcast, where we share inspiring success stories of young people overcoming significant challenges.
Each episode highlights the incredible journeys of youth who, with the support of the One Degree mentoring program, have defied the odds to start to achieve their dreams. From conquering personal struggles to breaking barriers and reaching career heights, these stories will motivate and uplift you. Discover how ‘one degree of change can open a lifetime of possibilities.
Brought to you by the One Degree Youth Mentoring Programme.
Music by One Degree alumnus – CONFLUENCE.
Here’s a summary of One Degree Alumni Stories Ep.14 featuring Kylie M., a 2017 alumna from Westminster Academy, London:
- Introduction: Kylie reflects on her time with One Degree, appreciating the support from mentors and the program’s ability to help her succeed in GCSEs, particularly in math and English. She enjoyed the social aspects, free meals, and inspiring guest speakers.
- Key Moments: Tim Campbell from The Apprentice presented the certificates at the end of her program, although Kylie didn’t realize who he was at the time.
- Post-Program Journey: After One Degree, Kylie completed a BTEC in Business, achieving top grades. She did an internship with construction company Wates, which unexpectedly sparked her interest in a career she hadn’t considered before.
- Apprenticeship Path: Instead of attending university, Kylie pursued an apprenticeship with Wates, where she trained on the job, avoiding student debt. She worked as an assistant estimator and found her role challenging but rewarding, especially as the industry became more diverse with increasing opportunities for women and people of color.
- Current Role and Future Goals: Kylie is currently working toward becoming a certified quantity surveyor and plans to advance to an estimator role soon. She also hopes to travel and take a sabbatical after completing her certifications.
- Advice for Students: Kylie encourages GCSE students to pace their revision and enjoy the journey. She advises being open to career changes, not taking failures too seriously, and seeing challenges as learning opportunities.