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I’ve been a degree apprentice data analyst at a large mobile phone operator for almost two years, joining straight from college. Since I first discovered apprenticeships, they were the only route I wanted to take.
I am a driven, highly-motivated individual that never rests on my laurels. Though I enjoyed school and achieved academic success, I was keen to start putting my skills into practice.
I have high career aspirations, and in earning valuable commercial experience and a competitive salary straight from school, while studying for a degree paid for by the company part-time, I’m in a great position compared to friends taking the university route.
While university offered a potentially unique and entertaining social experience, I could not justify the obvious financial issues that a student loan presents versus an apprenticeship opportunity, no matter how much alcohol I was offered to conceal such thoughts.
I live at home with my parents, as I always have. If I avoid getting used to overspending now, it will not feel like I have lost it when my money turns towards bills and the like in the years to come.
I received windfall from a trust fund when I turned 18 which went towards my first car and an initial comfort blanket in my savings.
Largely thanks to the wise advice and upbringing by my parents, I would consider myself mature beyond my years and I typically adopt a very rational approach to spending.
I live a very sensible life in the light of day, yet I allow myself to let the shackles loose in my free time.
Vital statistics:
- Age: 20
- Job: Data analyst
- Pre-tax annual income: £25,500, with 10pc a month into a pension and £300 into the company sharesave scheme via salary sacrifice
- Post-tax annual income: £15,600
- Rent: £135 a month living with parents
- Annual subscriptions: golf club membership (£300), gym (£320), Ipswich Town season ticket (£212), social club membership (£20)
Day 1
I start the day with a catch-up with my manager, who pays for my hot chocolate. I normally bring a packed lunch, but since we’re in the office today, I plump for a steak slice and Mexican loaded fries for £6 in the canteen.
After work, I go to the local social club with a colleague. Entry and a game of darts are free, but I spend £2.35 on pool, £1.50 on pork scratchings and £4.30 on a pint.
Afterwards we were aiming for a restaurant, but end up in KFC, where I spend another £8. I end the evening with £13 on golf bets – I like to analyse the stats and I enjoy watching and playing golf.
Total: £35.15
Day 2
I’m in the London office today, but work pays for the train and I get a lift to the station. I call at Gregg’s for lunch, spending £4 on a steak bake and some wedges.
We head out for post-work drinks as the weather is nice. As we’re in an outdoor seating area, I buy a four-pack of beer from the shop as it’s cheaper. I pay, but my friend will get them next time.
When I get the train home, I go for drinks with a friend who’s home from uni. I spend £14 at the local Wetherspoons, which is money-saving for them.
Total: £18
Day 3
I usually work from home on Fridays, but I wanted some quiet focus time out of the house as my parents are both off work on Fridays. I take a packed lunch and get home just in time for dinner.
There’s football on TV, so I spend £2 betting on the match. I’ve made around 20pc profit in the last two years of sports betting.
Total: £2
Day 4
I start the day watching TV while working on a sports analysis spreadsheet ready for the new American Football season. I have lunch at home, hit the gym and play my PS4 during the day.
At night, I watch the football, have dinner at home and watch a film with the family. My only expense is spending £97 on a festival ticket. The music isn’t quite to my taste and it’s my birthday weekend, but I want to enjoy lots of great experiences this summer.
Total: £97