Caitlyn’s story

With careers support, Caitlyn found her passion and planned her next steps to university.

Ahead of her exam results, Caitlyn felt unsure about what to do after finishing school.

Caitlyn knew she wanted a career where she could help people. However, she was unsure what options were available or how to get there.

She said, “I was quite confused about what I wanted to do. No one in my family has been to university, so looking at these options felt very new and quite scary.”

Getting help and advice

Caitlyn decided to book an appointment for guidance. She met with Christie, a Careers Wales adviser based at her school.

She said, “Christie could tell straight away that I was stressed. She was so understanding and helped calm me down.

“She always had a smile on her face and made me feel like I could talk openly.”

Exploring her options

Together they explored a range of pathways, including university, apprenticeships and other routes into work.

She said, “Christie never pushed me in one direction. She explained different routes and helped me understand what each one involved.”

As Caitlyn was especially interested in helping people, they explored healthcare careers. Through these conversations, Caitlyn discovered that occupational therapy matched her interests and values.

She said, “I liked the idea of helping people in a more holistic way. Occupational therapy really stood out to me.”

Next steps

With support, Caitlyn researched occupational therapy courses and explored universities offering the subject.

She said, “We looked at lots of options, including Cardiff, Swansea and further places like Bristol. I didn’t want to go too far from home, so we talked it through and agreed that Cardiff felt right. The course has great reviews and the location really suited me.

“Christie explained everything step by step. Things like student finance felt really scary at first, but she made it much easier to understand.”

With a clear plan she said: “I feel much more confident now. I know what I want to do and what my next steps are.”

Advice to other young people

Caitlyn wants other young people who feel worried about results to know that support is available.

She said: “Even if things don’t go exactly to plan, it doesn’t mean you can’t succeed. There are lots of different pathways, and people are there to help you through it.

“Christie was always there to support me and help me understand my options. That support meant everything.”

She added, "Christie said her doors are always open and that she’s always there for me if I need anything. So I've always felt very welcomed and I know I can always visit her even for a quick question or reassurance.”

If you would like to explore your interests and opportunities with a careers adviser, please contact us today.

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