From T-Levels to Degree Apprenticeship in AI at IBM

Taking that first step into the world of work or an apprenticeship can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where you’re heading or even if you’re capable. That was me a few years ago, full of potential but not yet knowing what path to take. I found my way through a T Level qualification in Digital Production, Design, and Development, a qualification that would not only shape my career but completely transform my confidence and sense of purpose. Today, as an AI and Analytics Degree Apprentice at IBM, I look back at my journey with gratitude, and I hope my story can offer hope to those who might feel as lost as I once did.

A Turning Point: Finding Clarity with T Levels

I remember a time when I felt like my future was an unsolved puzzle. Everyone having picked options for what they’d like to do for A-levels, while I was the one that never knew what they wanted to do. The traditional path of A-levels and university wasn’t something I could fully connect with, and I worried I’d never find something that I would like, especially as someone that would consider herself very creative. That’s when I discovered T Levels, which my school was promoting, the Digital Production, Design, and Development qualification. It was a new program, that blended theory with hands-on work experience. For the first time, I felt like there was a path designed for people like me who wanted to build practical skills while exploring the tech world and enhancing the creativity I was born with.

When I started T-Levels, I was hopeful but nervous. I was stepping into a world of coding, digital design, and real-world projects, and it felt daunting at first. Yet, I threw myself into every opportunity, and before I knew it, I’d reached a turning point. The T Levels didn’t just teach me technical skills; it gave me a foundation of confidence, soft-skills, professionalism and resilience. For the first time, I saw a future that was worth working toward.

Industry Placement at IBM: The Life-Changing Experience

The most pivotal moment in my T Level journey was my 9-week industry placement at IBM. When I first walked through IBM’s doors, I felt like I was on another planet.

A planet filled with smart, driven people working on incredible projects. I was excited, yes, but equally terrified. Was I ready for this? Could I keep up?

As it turned out, work-experience at IBM was exactly what I needed. My placement allowed me to experience the reality of tech and AI at work, not just in theory but through hands-on projects. We took part in challenging tasks and assignments that allowed us to implement our knowledge into real life digital solutions. These types of projects forced me to step outside my comfort zone, giving a major presentation to IBM senior managers and stakeholders. I was nervous, but pushing through those nerves to share something I was proud of made me realize that I could do this and that I was… kind of good at it.

By the end of my placement, I was a different person. I’d learned so much, but even more importantly, I believed in myself more and, I saw that there were people and mentors who wanted me to succeed, who saw potential in me, and that gave me the strength to keep going.

Achievements Along the Way: Recognized and Celebrated

After a long period of applying to apprenticeships, I was able to make it back to IBM as a Degree Apprentice working in AI and Analytics! This is where I was able to truly become who I am called to be.

Every achievement is a reflection of the impact of T Levels and the incredible support I've had along the way. Each step has gave me the confidence to share my journey, inspire others, and grow into a professional who believes in the power of technical education and the impact it can have on young people’s lives like mine.

Returning to Ursuline High School to speak to year 11 students was a full-circle moment for me as they allowed me to stand and speak at the same place where I was once a confused kid with potential but no path, and now I was able to share my journey in tech, encouraging girls like me to explore similar paths. Being invited to speak at events for the Department for Education and Education and Training Foundation was another highlight, where I emphasized to educators and head teachers how T Levels can create new opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds and urged for wider access to these programs for more stories like mine to surge.

Collaborating with the Gatsby Charitable Foundation on case studies about my T Level experience allowed me to revisit the path that led to my AI career at IBM, reaching students who may feel uncertain about their future. Receiving the Special Recognition Award from BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, honoured my dedication to promoting T Levels and apprenticeships, particularly for underrepresented students. Finally, being awarded T Level Student of the Year at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2024 by Gatsby was a personal milestone, showcasing the transformative power of T Levels and inspiring me to keep motivating others to pursue their dreams.

Words of Advice for Those Just Starting Out

If you’re reading this and feeling uncertain about your future, know that you’re not alone and that there is a way out the dark tunnel of your thoughts! With faith, drive, determination, perseverance, and willpower you can make it out of that mental distress, confusion and double-mindedness that is keeping you from stepping into your purpose. Here are a few things I’ve learned on my journey that might help you as you take those first steps: 

1. Embrace Resilience

Growing up in challenging circumstances means you’ve developed resilience without even realizing it. Recognize that your journey so far has equipped you with strength, adaptability, and courage—qualities that many people take years to cultivate. Use your struggles as motivation to work harder and dream bigger; those who overcome obstacles gain unique perspectives and often create solutions that others might overlook. Seek out role models with similar experiences, as their success stories can provide practical strategies and reassurance that, with determination, you can also achieve a meaningful transformation and inspire others along the way.

2. Learn to Network early

Start building connections by seeking mentors within your community, such as supportive teachers, coaches, or local professionals, who can offer guidance and advice. Take advantage of online platforms like LinkedIn or social media, where many professionals openly share insights. By following them and asking questions, you gain valuable knowledge and connect with people who can help you grow. Go to networking events that allow you to speak to others and get good at it.

3. Get Comfortable with Public Speaking

Begin by practicing with familiar audiences like friends, family, or even in front of a mirror, where you can comfortably talk about your interests and experiences. Getting comfortable with public speaking starts with sharing your story; whether it’s about a small victory or a lesson you learned, telling your story builds confidence and reminds you of your growth and from where you came from. Focus on your message rather than aiming for perfection. Speaking is about conveying ideas with conviction. Focus on what you’re saying, rather than how you’re saying it, you’ll find that your nerves ease, and you can deliver your thoughts more naturally since now, they are of true essence.

4. Reflect on What Matters to You

Take time to think about the dreams and goals that truly excite you, even if they feel far off—knowing what drives you helps keep you motivated and clarifies your path. Visualize and journal the impact your goals will have, not just in your life but also in the lives of others around you, which can give your journey a deeper sense of purpose. Your achievements will influence a whole generation behind you. Reflecting on small victories and lessons learned reminds you of your growth and the resilience that fuels your journey to purpose.

5. GO ALL IN!

Believe that it is positively rigged in your favour! Dedicate yourself wholeheartedly to what you want to do, and if you don’t know what you want to do (like I did) throw yourself into every opportunity you are offered, things will start unfolding and eventually you’ll find yourself along this endless path.

Focus on being of service to others and most importantly, be intentional with your time and what you decide to do with it. Learn to understand your bad habits and learn how to break out of them for you new season in life!

Embrace every challenging moment you’ve gone through in your life and acknowledge how you were able to somehow make it out.

Going ALL IN is not just about the final destination, but about acknowledging each part of the journey.

To those just starting out, know that your journey will have its own twists and turns. Embrace every step, every challenge, and every lesson along the way. With programs like T Levels, doors are opening to reach your desired purpose, and there’s a world of opportunities waiting for you too!

 

Fernanda Vargas Mendez

AI & Analytics IBM DTS Degree Apprentice | T-Level Student of the Year Winner 2024 | Buzz Squad IBM UKI

You can find out more and connect with Fernanda on LinkedIn.