Going through my school journey a few years back I was conditioned to believe that university would be the only way forward to succeed. When it got to A-levels I decided I wanted to pursue something different at Uni... something creative and full of exciting things and once more my teachers decided to cut away at my individuality and push me to something academic.
I became unhappy and anxiety ridden about what I could do at Uni that I would both love and excel at. The time was counting down and I could feel the teachers pressure pushing down upon my shoulders.
After taking my exams I decided to drop uni before it even began, I wanted to know what I wanted to do over what they wanted. I was scrutinised by EVERYONE!
But after a few long months I found an entry level job that I would love, I applied and got the position as a receptionist. As soon as I joined I carried on studying at the desk, helping out others in their roles and becoming actively involved within the company and now I've got ANOTHER position, higher up and in something I love. It's still a junior role but it will lead onto bigger and better things.
I just want everyone doing a-levels and GCSE's that you should choose the path for you. I failed my A-levels and my GCSE maths and yet here I am doing something I love, through my persistence, attitude and hard work. At 19 I earn more than my friends, those at uni want to drop out or are unhappy because they didn't want to go in the first place. I urge you to do what you want, if that's an apprenticeship, internship, a job or University, as long as your happy that's what matters.