From forensics to optics - Linzi's story

From forensics to optics - Linzi tells us her story

Linzi Mcculla, Apprentice Optical Assistant, tells us about her journey from university to an apprenticeship and how the change in direction has had a positive effect on both her work and home life.

Finding my feet

"I graduated from university in 2019 with a bachelor’s in forensic anthropology (which is basically the examination of human skeletons to find out more about them – it was pretty cool!). My original career goal was to work in forensics, but as you can probably appreciate, it’s such a niche degree and therefore not many jobs are available, especially without a master's or PhD. I really liked university – it provided me with the freedom I needed to work my studies around me. But, as a person, I always put too much pressure on myself due to my very high standards. And although I passed, I was second-guessing if I was good enough to carry on.

I was working seasonally in a supermarket, so when I decided not to pursue my studies any further, it was an easy transition to start working full-time. The job was OK – it wasn’t particularly stimulating or challenging, I just did what I had to do and then came home. Sure, I had career progression opportunities presented to me, but I didn’t feel it was the right thing for me. I love dealing with the public but felt that a management role wasn’t where I’d see myself. I put myself out there on the job market to find something a bit more challenging and rewarding. This is when I saw Specsavers were hiring for a Trainee Optical Assistant.

I was recommended an apprenticeship

I applied for the trainee position because optics seemed quite interesting, and it was a great opportunity to learn more. With my niche degree, I have a good idea of anatomy and have always had an interest in clinical/medical fields, so it seemed to be a good fit. During the interview, the interviewers felt that an apprenticeship would be better suited to me so I could learn much more in greater detail about optics. To be honest, I’d never considered an apprenticeship before. I always just assumed that they were for school leavers. My dad would always have apprentices working for him, and they were always around 16/17 years of age. I had no idea you could be an apprentice at any age!

I was so excited to be offered a trial shift in-store for the position of Apprentice Optical Assistant. It felt right from the very beginning. I didn’t want to leave after my trial – the team were all so knowledgeable and clearly had a great bond with each other, as well as store management. There were three other apprentices in-store too, so I could see how well they fitted in with the team. They weren’t treated any differently from those who were more experienced. All colleagues were so helpful, they’d be there to answer any questions and give loads of hands-on support.

Thankfully, the feeling was mutual, and I was offered the position.

The apprenticeship has changed my life

I’ve been at Specsavers now since October 2023 and it’s been brilliant. My coaches are fantastic – so supportive and encouraging. They work with me to find a way of pursuing the apprenticeship that suits me. The coaches and managers in my store understand how I put pressure on myself and have high expectations, so they know how to deal with this. They try to show me what I don’t see in myself. So rather than focusing on what I can’t do or don’t know, they focus on how far I’ve come. They describe me like a sponge – they’re surprised at how much information I absorb!

My previous role in retail was both physically and mentally tiring. I worked unsociable hours, was consistently running around the store, and at times the public could be very difficult to deal with (especially during seasonal periods), so this took a toll on my mental well-being.

I love that what I do at Specsavers has a positive impact on our customers’ lives. It’s not just ‘here’s your shopping’ – it’s interaction on a deeper level. Our customers keep coming back to us, and they remember me when they come back in, so we form good bonds with them which means so much, to them and to me.

Where to go from here?

I’ve witnessed a lot of progression internally already, with some people completing their apprenticeship to go on to do their level 4 BTEC, or further qualifications to become a Dispensing Optician (DO). I’m interested in being a DO because I want to have the knowledge and skills to be the best for our customers. I am fully supported by my store directors – I couldn’t ask for better ones, if I’m honest. The more you do, the more you know. I know now it’s just a matter of continuing to build my self-confidence.

I’m so glad I made the decision to join Specsavers. It’s made such a positive difference to my home life, too. My partner and I now have a lot more time together at home as a couple. I’m not drained every day, emotionally and physically, and my partner can see how much my confidence has grown. We’re planning our wedding for 2026 and I’m grateful to be in a much better place now to be able to focus on our exciting future together".