I’m preparing to go to university – but would I have more chance at landing a job through an internship?

APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions.

Here, she helps a reader who does not know where to start getting back into work.

Q: I’m going to university in September to study English – in the hope of working for a media or publishing company – after spending a year out to earn some money to help fund my studies.

I was really excited, but I’m now feeling a lot of pressure from my parents and even friends to excel.

They say that I may as well not bother going unless I come out with a first-class degree, because I’m going to have so much debt.

I’d love to get a first, but if I achieve a 2.1 or 2.2 am I going to struggle to get a job?

Am I better off trying a less conventional route into a company?

Chloe, via email

A: It’s important to remember that while academic achievement is of course a factor in the job market, it’s not the only one.

Employers also value practical experience and skills, such as creativity, teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

While aiming for a first-class degree can be a worthy goal, a 2.1 or 2.2 is still a very respectable achievement.

If university is what you want to do, make the most of everything it has to offer, both academically and socially.

You don’t pay back your student loan until you earn £25,000 a year (before tax and other deductions) and repayments are managed in a way that should be affordable.

Don’t look at it as a debt, look at it as an investment in yourself.

However, if you do want to explore your options, there are other paths that can lead to a career in media or publishing.

Apprenticeships, internships and entry-level positions can all provide valuable opportunities.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to focus on gaining practical experience and building your skills and network, both at university and beyond.

Got a careers question for Karren? Email bossingit@fabulousmag.co.uk.