After I graduated from the University of Bristol with a Psychology degree, I wasn’t entirely sure what direction I wanted my career to take. I joined Compare the Market (CtM) as a Data Intern in the Business Intelligence team, which became a pivotal starting point for my journey into data. During the three-month internship, I was introduced to coding and began to understand how data can be used to support decision-making across an organisation. Seeing how insights could be used to answer real business questions quickly sparked my interest in this area.
Although progressing from a Psychology degree into an analyst role may not be the most traditional route into data, many aspects of my degree translate well into my current role. Skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and understanding behaviour have been particularly useful when analysing data and communicating insights clearly to others.
“It has also reinforced that there isn’t a single fixed route into data careers, and that apprenticeships can provide an accessible pathway for people from a wide range of backgrounds.
Completing the apprenticeship alongside full-time work has allowed me to develop skills quickly, with the opportunity to apply learning directly to real tasks, analysing data to support business decisions. This ensures that the learning feels both relevant and practical. Having one day a week dedicated towards apprenticeship learning allows me to fully engage with my studies, whilst remaining present and productive in my role. As someone with limited data experience prior to interning at CtM, the apprenticeship has played a significant role in helping me progress my skills efficiently and build confidence working with data. It has also reinforced that there isn’t a single fixed route into data careers, and that apprenticeships can provide an accessible pathway for people from a wide range of backgrounds.
CtM has been incredibly supportive throughout my apprenticeship journey. Being given the opportunity to take part in the programme, alongside the flexibility to dedicate time to learning, has been key to my development. My line manager and mentor have been particularly encouraging, helping me manage my workload, and ensuring I can balance learning with day-to-day responsibilities. Additionally, when opportunities arise to apply new skills or take on further development, I am actively encouraged to do so. This support has made balancing work and ongoing learning much more manageable.
Some highlights so far include applying my learning to real pieces of work and seeing the direct impact of my contributions. I’ve also really valued the opportunity to work with and learn from new people across the business, which has helped build my confidence and develop my communication skills. Alongside this, I’ve enjoyed watching my confidence grow over time, particularly as my coding ability and analytical thinking continue to improve.
For anyone considering an apprenticeship, my advice would be not to worry about having a perfectly aligned background. Apprenticeships offer a structured way to learn and progress over time, whilst gaining hands-on experience in a full-time role. With the right support, they provide an opportunity to grow, complete meaningful work, and apply learning in a real-world setting.
Looking ahead, I’m eager to continue developing my skills, build further confidence in my role, and explore where this experience could lead in the future. I’m grateful to the opportunity and support CtM has given me so far, and I’m excited to see what comes next.
Whatever your specialist area, wherever you are in your journey, we’d love to hear from you.
