Gabriella Goddard-Palmer, 22, made a bold choice to skip traditional university and pursue an apprenticeship instead. Now, she’s proudly saved £40,000 by age 22—a feat she credits to her alternative path.
After finishing sixth form, Gabriella realised that sitting through lectures wasn’t for her. As a practical learner, she sought a hands-on experience and applied for a management consulting apprenticeship, which she began in September 2021. From the start, she earned £18,500 annually and impressively saved around 65% of her income.
Alongside gaining real-world skills, Gabriella’s apprenticeship also leads to a formal degree qualification, giving her the best of both worlds. Over time, her salary has grown to £35,000 a year. Plus, she’s built several side hustles as an online creator and social media manager, earning an extra £200 to £1,000 monthly.
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Gabriella emphasises that her financial success wouldn’t have been possible if she’d gone to university. “University life comes with many expenses and student loans,” she explains. “It would have been much harder to save money. I don’t regret my choice at all.”
Initially, she admits feeling some FOMO (fear of missing out) as friends moved away and embraced university life. But hearing those same friends later wish they’d taken an apprenticeship confirmed for Gabriella that she made the right call. “The experience and opportunities I’m gaining in the corporate world are invaluable,” she says.
Beyond her job, Gabriella used her lockdown downtime to teach herself stock market investing through online videos. Her portfolio grew by 27% last year—far outperforming a traditional savings account. Today, she uses her platform to encourage young people, especially girls, to learn about personal finance and investing, topics she feels are often overlooked.
Gabriella’s story highlights that university isn’t the only route to success. With dedication, smart money management, and embracing modern career paths, financial independence by your early twenties is achievable.