Freya Finley: Embracing Change, Opportunity, and Curiosity in Career Journeys
Freya Finley shred her career pathway: a journey that explores the power of curiosity, adaptability, and openness to change in building a meaningful career. Freya shared stories from their own path, revealing how sometimes the best opportunities come from taking unexpected turns. Freya describes how embracing the unknown and saying “yes” to new challenges lead her to unexpected success and personal growth.
Anyone at that stage, Year 12, might not know what they want to do, and that’s normal. It’s an exciting yet uncertain time, and I know I would’ve appreciated some guidance then. So, here’s my journey and four insights I’d like to share.
Throughout my career, I’ve worn many hats: TV producer, chief of staff, operations manager, cheesemaker, and more. My brother would probably debate the ‘farmer’ title, but let’s leave that for now.
1. Qualifications
Qualifications are great to have. They’re a line on your CV – a ‘look, I did that!’ But if you’re considering university, think hard about the subject. I studied Classics at Trinity College Dublin, and I was the only one in my college doing Latin. It was challenging but fascinating, combining history, politics, philosophy, literature, and drama – a real mental workout. Trinity is amazing, too; it’s affordable and has green spaces. I later did an MA in Journalism, and scholarships helped me there. Look into scholarships – they can open doors.
2. Networking
Networking doesn’t have to mean formal events with strangers. Think of it as your existing connections – friends, family, even your school network. It’s all valuable. I wanted to return to Cumbria, so I messaged a friend who worked for an MP, Rory Stewart, and asked about job openings. Turns out, her boss needed a chief of staff, and I ended up in that role. Rory interviewed me on the London tube – not your usual setting, but it worked! Working with him taught me so much about problem-solving and communication.
3. Knock on Doors
You get none of the jobs you don’t apply for, so try. When Rory left politics, I was job hunting and saw an opening in the Royal Household as an executive assistant. Six months turned into three years there. I worked on events like the Platinum Jubilee, Queen’s funeral, and even traveled to Rwanda. Working there emphasised that no matter the role, success depends on getting things done and building strong relationships. You need people to help you make things happen.
4. Try New Things
Experience is invaluable, especially at your age. Try internships or volunteer work in fields that interest you. I began farming alongside my family, even though it’s not traditionally a path I saw for myself. And I recently started learning cheesemaking – a whole new adventure with my farm. My latest project, ‘Freya Fromage,’ is my way of building something of my own.
In short, embrace new experiences, don’t be afraid of changing paths, and lean on your network. You never know where one connection or experience may lead.