The amazing thing about retail optics is the variation of career paths

Annaliese Rodriguez Marquez, Optical Assistant, started out as an apprentice in-store straight after leaving school. She tells us her story about how she’s grown, both personally and professionally, and why she feels an apprenticeship is the best way to kickstart a career. 

I knew I wanted to make a difference 

“When I first came to Specsavers, I had no experience at all. Only having just left school, I had no work experience - I didn’t really know what optics was, if I’m honest. I came across the apprenticeship totally by chance, when scrolling online. When I read more into it, I thought it sounded incredibly interesting, and different to everything else I’d seen. I didn’t know what it was I wanted to do as such. I just knew I wanted to do something that would make a difference in society. That’s what set the Specsavers apprenticeship apart from the rest. It was clear the role helps to make a difference to people’s lives, plus it was local, and showed a clear path to a solid career. I just had to apply, and I’m glad I did as I was offered the role and completed a 12-month apprenticeship which was incredible.

The support I received was utterly amazing

As with any job, you get out what you put in. I worked very hard, and the help and support I received was utterly amazing. From my coaching sessions to the support from my colleagues, it was in abundance. And, if I’m honest, it’s necessary, as the amount of knowledge to learn is astounding. My in-store visits from my apprentice coach were extremely enjoyable; I was shown a lot of kindness and reassurance. We’d discuss where I wanted to be and what I wanted to do, which isn't the easiest thing to think about when doing the apprenticeship. But this was so useful as it helped to guide me through the apprenticeship and focus on some bigger goals for my future. My coach always made sure I was safe and comfortable in my environment, both at work and in my home life. The safeguarding I had throughout the course was brilliant. From my manager to dispensing opticians and other store colleagues, they were all committed to helping me learn and grow.  I couldn't be more thankful as they made my apprenticeship enjoyable and encouraged me to be at my best.

I'm able to grow, both as a person and in my profession

I was just 17 when I started my apprenticeship. I grew and matured a lot within the 12 months as an apprentice. As an Optical Assistant today, I reflect on my time as an apprentice and realise how much I learned. Though it came with its challenges, it was incredibly enjoyable and informative. I know I wouldn’t have been able to continue down the optical career path as easily as I am on if it hadn't have been for the apprenticeship. Since completing my level 2 Optical Assistant apprenticeship, I’ve completed my cert 3 and am currently doing my Cert 4.  I hope to go on to completing the Dispensing Optician course, and continue to develop and grow, both personally and professionally. Did I ever think I would see myself working in eye health before? No. But the amazing thing about this field of work is that there are so many paths that you can go down.  I truly believe that an apprenticeship is one of the best ways to kickstart a career.