Medical Relations and Communications Apprentice Review

I work within the Medical Communications Team in the LDB Division. Each day is different but typically involves a team tribe meeting updating my colleagues on key activations, working on communication materials (e.g., website content or HCP email sends), leading on stakeholder management with our external agencies and supporting the team with our main national events and congresses.

Definitely! My confidence has grown massively as a result of working within my team and cross-functionally, particularly in regard to presentations and talking with HCPs at our larger national events. I have learnt how to lead projects, project management skills, creating communication strategies, budget planning and working both autonomously and as part of a larger team. The skills gained are honestly invaluable!

The opportunity to do a degree apprenticeship has been incredible and the skills and knowledge gained have really supported me and set me up for my future career. There's no denying that working full time and studying for a degree is extremely hard work! It takes a lot of hard work, motivation and support to get you through. Luckily my team and managers have been very supportive which has definitely helped to increase the overall enjoyment of the experience. It's not easy but 100% worth it!

The communication from our learning provider, the University of Kent, has been amazing! I've felt supported the entire time and the regular 12-weekly meetings with my Apprentice Advisor and Manager definitely creates structure and helps you feel supported. I am also grateful for the continuity of always having Friday's as an in-person university day as it helps to establish boundaries between work and university.

L'Oréal offer a set number of study days per year which is really beneficial, particularly in assignment season, when stress levels can be high. I also know that other degree apprenticeship programmes do not offer this and it's definitely something to look out for!

The support from the University of Kent is incredible! All of the tutors are so helpful when it comes to the academic side, and our Director of Study is extremely knowledgeable and mindful of the challenges of being a degree apprentice. Beyond academics, the pastoral support and apprentice advisors are always there to talk to and support you through challenging times!

My degree with the University of Kent provides the knowledge and skills needed to support an effective working environment, from financial budgeting strategies to marketing communication theories and understanding leadership and management styles.

The NextGen Network host some really good networking events so that you can meet people beyond your immediate teams/divisions. There are also many sport teams (e.g., run club, football, netball), social committees and amazing speaker events to attend (particularly for mental health awareness week).

Yes

The Degree Apprenticeship Programme with L'Oréal is well-structured and I've always felt very supported. There are so many different teams and job roles available that you wouldn't necessarily think of when you think 'L'Oréal'. For example, I never would have thought that L'Oréal would have a Medical Team!

I think if you're considering the standard uni route vs a degree apprenticeship it's really important to consider which one is right for you, so definitely look into both options and really think what would be best suited to you as there's no one fit for everyone. When applying for L'Oréal I would say be yourself and don't change yourself to fit into a mould that you think they want. Come prepared with examples of where you've demonstrated specific competencies (e.g., from school projects, work experience or jobs). Go to open days and reach out to existing apprentices at L'Oréal on LinkedIn to ask for their tips!