Do you remember what it was like being 15?
As Future First celebrates its 15th anniversary, we asked 15 of our staff and trustees to share the advice they would give their 15-year-old selves. It’s a moment to reflect on our individual journey of growth, learning, and career development, especially as we continue to support young people in discovering their own.
As the advice came in, common themes started to emerge. Here are our team’s pieces of wisdom, each offering insight into navigating life and careers in an ever evolving world.
Do what you love
Choosing a career or direction in life as a 15-year-old can feel like a big decision, but the most fulfilling paths often come from doing what excites you. The key is to lean into what makes you feel curious, motivated, and engaged—and to trust that this will guide you to a place you truly enjoy.
Follow what excites you, even if you’re unsure how it’ll work out. You are resourceful. Don’t let fear stop you—you are smart enough, and you can do it. Don’t rule things out over self-doubt or financial worries. Say yes-you’ll find a way.
Ruth McManus, Programme and Partnership Manager
Choose the A Level subjects that you’re passionate about, not what you think you ‘should’ do. You’ll enjoy learning so much more, and your older self will thank you when it sets you on a path to a job that you love!
Sophie Buck, Fundraiser
It may sound like a cliché but follow your heart. Working hard at something you love is always rewarding. You might not make a career out of it but your commitment and dedication to your craft will equip you with valuable skills you can use in the workplace later.
Sarah-Jane Freni, Comms Lead
Aim to do something you enjoy, using the subjects and skills that most enthuse you – what you enjoy may change over time – and as you learn more, but it means that the world of work will be fulfilling.
Milly Camley, Trustee
It's ok to be unsure
It’s easy to feel pressure to have everything figured out before you leave school, but the truth is, no one has it all mapped out at 15. Career paths aren’t always linear, and it’s normal to feel uncertain and it’s definitely OK to take your time finding the right path.
Don’t stress about choosing your career at 15 like it’s set in stone forever. You’ll pick up tons of skills along the way that will help you in so many different areas, and your career path can change as you grow! Keep learning, stay open to new opportunities, and always enjoy the journey!
JoAnne Jones, Programme Manager
I would tell my 15-year-old self that it’s completely normal to not know what you want to do in life. I would encourage them to be curious and to explore and try as many of their interests as possible without fearing judgement from others.
Sam Riley, Digital Marketing Intern
Don’t feel the pressure to have everything figured out as soon as you leave school, take a gap year (or 2!), work different jobs, do work experience, volunteer, just don’t feel rushed into making a decision about your future that isn’t right for you.
Georgie Lumu, School Membership Manager
Don’t feel any pressure to know what you want to do in the future, there is plenty of time! Be open-minded, focus on exploring all the different options out there and you will find the things you love to do along the way.
Rhian Thomas, Trustee
Have confidence in yourself
Believing in yourself is key to navigating the challenges of life and work. It’s easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to others, but confidence in your own abilities can set you apart.
Be more confident in your own abilities, you don’t need to compare yourself to anyone else!
Liz Baker, School Membership Coordinator
I appreciate that you are not someone to be told what to do so I won’t give you any advice. You don’t know yet how lucky you are. Enjoy yourself!
Nick Woodrow, Trustee
Stay open to learning new things
The world of work is constantly changing, and the ability to learn and adapt is crucial. Being open to new experiences and ideas can unlock opportunities and broaden your horizons. No matter what your career looks like, the skills you gain through curiosity and continuous learning will always be valuable.
You don’t know everything… be open to new ideas and thoughts, challenge yourself about what you believe and why.
Mark Higgins, Head of Membership
You’ll have lots of jobs – ones that you haven’t even heard of yet. Getting things wrong is another way of saying ‘I’ve learnt something.’ If you see something that isn’t right, help to change it. Take time for yourself – build interests out of work.
Sue Riley, CEO
Keep working hard, but prepare yourself for many surprises along the way. Your life won’t turn out exactly how you’ve planned for it, but it will be more beautiful than you’ll ever expect.
Ata Rahman, Trustee
Don't be afraid to give it a try
Life is a series of explorations, and every experience—whether a success or a mistake—helps you discover more about yourself. Don’t be afraid to try different things, because each one brings you closer to understanding your passions, strengths, and the direction you want to take.
My advice would be to explore more! Don’t be afraid to explore new opportunities or try new things: volunteering, extracurricular activities or even a new hobby. Whether it leads to something amazing or not, at least you can say you gave it a go!
Aisha Amjad, School Membership Coordinator
It’s ok to try things out – you don’t need to have the answer to everything right now.
LeeMauve Patron, COO
What advice would you give your 15-year-old self?
To mark our 15th anniversary, we’re asking our friends and supporters to GIVE 15.
Could you spare 15 minutes to complete our form and share your career advice with 15-year-olds? We’ll share your stories in our school workshops helping young people across the UK navigate their futures with confidence.
