Thousands of young people up and down the country found out this month whether or not they managed to gain a place at college or university.
For some, though, learning on the job while making money can be a better option, as was the case for 22-year-old Alice Bryce, facilities management co-ordinator at FM by Design.
Miss Bryce joined the company six months ago and says she is enjoying the varied nature of managing clients’ facilities across Aberdeen.
She said: “I went to Cults Academy but did not go to college or university. I went straight from school into work. I always felt that the things you learn in the workplace and what you gain through experience on the job are just as important as what you might learn from a book.
“At work, a day for me can really mean anything, I answer the helpdesk calls and from when I sit down at my desk in the morning I never know what the day will turn out like. Every day, I learn something new.
“As a team we have good fun. The office has a real buzz. We all get on well and help each other out. I have learnt so much from my colleagues and it adds to the excitement of my job. FM by Design provides facilities management for clients all over Aberdeen, from small companies to larger, multi-national firms, so I talk to people of all ages in lots of different industries every day.
“At times, my job can be stressful, but when you have a good team around you and everyone is so helpful it soon turns things around.
“Every day is different, the requests we receive really can cover any aspect of looking after a building – from security to changing light bulbs. It’s nice to have variety at work so sometimes when you have an odd request that can make you laugh such as ordering pizza – it certainly keeps things from getting dull.”
Claire MacIntyre from FM by Design, said: “As a company we pride ourselves on providing our staff with the opportunity to progress and learn on the job.
“While this time of year can be very difficult for young people, they should remember there are different ways to succeed and going straight into a varied and exciting role can reap huge benefits.”