The Start of Something New

Admitting that I am a little nervous about writing my first blog is difficult, but hopefully, these snapshots into my apprenticeship program will inspire other aspiring HR professionals. Despite the nerves, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity and experience provided by CML. Join me on my journey as I get a head start on my future!

Before CML

In March 2020, we got the first email stating that the schools would be strictly online due to the Covid-19 restrictions settling in. It was my final year of high school, so it was not entirely ideal for a student prepping for examinations and the next steps of their educational journey. Disregarding the lack of socialisation and the impromptu beach days, I graduated from Clifton Hunter High School with Honors, and my head held high in December 2021 (whilst also having already completed my first semester at the University College of The Cayman Islands).



Finding My Path

With high school firmly behind me, I continued my studies at UCCI, where I am currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration and have thoughts about a second degree in English Literature, maybe someday in the future as well. From a very young age, I became well acquainted with the books in the library, specifically fantasy books (I highly recommend the Percy Jackson Series). The little girl back then wanted nothing but to become a best-selling author, hosting book signings and possibly on her third series by now. She instead has at least 50+ incomplete books/writing pieces on her hard drive and wishes to keep writing as a hobby and not a job.

While reading and being a writer is how I like to feel in my free time, I was still figuring out my career path, and I’m not afraid to say that I’m still figuring this out. My interest in human resources peaked when I saw an ad in the newspaper many years ago describing the role of a Human Resources Manager. It seemed like a therapist for the workplace, and it piqued my interest, so I looked into the career a bit further and decided I’d like to see what HR is all about.

In 2023, I got my first taste of a career in Human Resources. It was a short internship during which I learned the basics of immigration here in Cayman, as well as recruitment and general HR management. This was an incredible first taste of what a career in HR could be, and I wanted more—that’s where the CML apprenticeship came in at the perfect time.

Immigration Apprentice – Exactly where I need to be

Whilst scrolling through social media, I got an ad. This ad seemed specifically directed to me as everything I wanted they offered and honestly felt too good to be true. I sat on the decision to apply for only a moment as everyone urged me to apply. This was an opportunity I could not ignore. Shortly after applying, some interviews, and a test I was unnecessarily nervous about, I got the job! Honestly, I had no doubts I wouldn’t get the job. But when I received the call, I couldn’t contain my excitement. Everyone on my contact list was just as excited as I was! And so it began!

Having already been an intern in human resources, I thought I knew exactly what I was getting myself into. I had mentally prepared myself for the day-to-day duties of the role I’d be doing, but I honestly hadn’t really thought too much about what the culture would be like. Working in the corporate world was still relatively new to me, and I just assumed everywhere was the same and you just got your head down and got to work. I will never forget my first day at CML, it was a fun, welcoming and comprehensive experience and I couldn’t be happier with the team I’ve joined.

I’ve learned so much and have met so many new people! I feel comfortable enough to say that I can answer most questions about immigration here in the Cayman Islands. Note I said most questions, there’s definitely room for improvement, and I’m learning more and more every day.

Every obstacle and learning curve has provided the enrichment I have been looking for. I look forward to the milestones ahead. This is only the beginning, after all. Soon, I will be a certified HR Professional.