How I got here
Starting my journey, transitioning from a degree in graphic design at Norwich University of the Arts to the professional world felt daunting. That is until I was introduced to Refresh via The Juice Academy. The quick and transparent communication from Refresh was a breath of fresh air; within a week of applying, I was walking into an interview, and a week later I started at Refresh – a clear testament to their efficient and welcoming approach.
University armed me with the design skills necessary for the trade, but it was Refresh that truly opened the door to the real world, offering me invaluable skills and experience directly tied to the industry. By the end of my first week, I felt as if I had been part of the team for months, thanks to the knowledge I had acquired and the incredibly friendly atmosphere.
Atmosphere
At Refresh, it’s apparent that employee welfare is important. The culture of respect, absence of micromanagement, and the collaborative spirit where everyone is eager to lend a hand creates a rewarding work environment. This supportive atmosphere extends to accommodating neurodiversity, providing me, a person with ADHD, with the necessary accessibility and support that I found rare to come by in previous employment.
Liam, my line manager, stood out as an exceptional mentor, making me feel thoroughly at ease. In contrast, the down-to-earth nature of Laura and the rest of the management team made them approachable and relatable. The encouragement to learn from mistakes without fear of retribution has significantly boosted my confidence and determination. Everybody had something to teach me and took time out of their schedule to accommodate my learning. I wasn’t the only ‘newbie’ at Refresh, we had Sam who joined us from a sixth-form college to gain a week of work experience. It was nice to give Sam my perspective and I hope he will go down the same path that I did because of my enjoyment at Refresh.
Experience
Every day at Refresh is a learning curve, packed with responsibilities that I’ve embraced from the get-go. From creating graphics for Refresh’s social media channels to preparing for International Women’s Day, I’ve had the chance to get to know the industry’s leading women through their own inclusivity experiences. Moreover, designing graphics for Samsung Climate Solutions has been rewarding and a great addition to my portfolio, and being given important tasks made me feel trusted and respected.
The apprenticeship at Refresh has numerous opportunities and will be a great starting point for my career. However, given the company’s enriching and enjoyable work environment, my aspirations might very well align with a long-term commitment. At Refresh, it’s not just about building a career; it’s about being part of a community that values your strengths and tailors your needs to help you grow.
In summary, I have thoroughly enjoyed my first week at Refresh and I am excited about what the future holds.
If you’re interested in a career in marketing, visit our careers page, or get in touch at careers@refreshpr.co.uk.
