To the Trainees in Waiting: A Letter from the Other Side

By Jess Clark (Group 54)

How a letter to myself became a roadmap—and a reminder—that growth begins the moment you say “yes.”

MDS’s 2025 Annual Conference was a fantastic opportunity for me to meet new people—members and Trainees alike. But it was my conversations with the Trainees in Waiting that truly reminded me of my own journey.

Now, on my final secondment and due to graduate this October, I find myself naturally reflecting on just how far I’ve come.

When I attended my first Annual Conference back in 2023 as a Trainee in Waiting, I made a decision: to document my personal and professional development throughout my MDS journey.

Having benefited greatly from the wisdom shared by former Trainees, I now want to pass on their advice—alongside lessons from my own experience.

So, if you’re a Trainee in Waiting or just starting out on your MDS journey, I hope you find some comfort and reassurance in reading about mine. MDS is more than a scheme; it’s a supportive network. You’re always welcome to reach out to me—via email or LinkedIn—anytime.

21st June 2023

Two days after attending the 2023 Annual Conference

I’m sitting in my garden as I write this, but I can’t help wishing I were already immersed in life as an MDS Trainee.

I left Nottingham with an overwhelming sense of excitement—the same feeling I get before starting a challenging hike in the Yorkshire Dales or opening a new book. There’s an undeniable challenge ahead, but I know it’s the journey, not the destination, that will shape my experience.

I had the chance to hear from current Trainees. Their key piece of advice was clear:

“Seek out and take every opportunity.”

And I suppose this letter—this moment of reflection—is my promise to do exactly that.

MDS will be challenging, uncomfortable, and at times overwhelming. But it will also be transformational, rewarding, and—above all—a privilege. If I stay true to myself and continue to embrace change, I know I’ll live out my goal: to leave a positive mark on the people and environments I work with.

So, here’s to the testing days, the fulfilling ones, and even the days when I’ll inevitably question why I always say “yes.” I’ve committed to embracing every moment of this journey—and for the hard work that has brought me here, I’m truly grateful.

So, without further ado, let the MDS journey begin!

Looking back now, I can smile at the eagerness in this letter. It was written by someone full of ambition, a touch of nervousness, and a desire to make the most of what lay ahead.

Each placement has brought its own lessons, people, and challenges—stretching me far beyond the person who once sat in the garden dreaming of what was to come. I’ve learned when to speak up, when to listen, how to lead, and—perhaps most importantly—how to grow through discomfort.

I’ve kept my promise to myself. I’ve said “yes” to new opportunities, even when they scared me. From speaking on a panel at Crop Tech (despite having zero background in agriculture), to receiving a Rising Star award for going above and beyond in my secondment. I haven’t just taken up opportunities—I’ve actively pursued them, stayed curious, and thrown myself fully into everything I’ve taken on.

And here’s the truth: this reflection isn’t just for me. It’s for anyone navigating the early stages of their career, wondering if they’re doing it “right.”

Spoiler alert: There is no one right way.

But if you show up, stay curious, and say “yes” more often than “no,” you’ll end up somewhere you never expected—and somewhere better for it.

So, to all the Trainees in Waiting: Here’s your first opportunity to say “yes.” Write yourself a letter. Use it to guide and ground you during your MDS journey. Trust me—you’ll be amazed at the person you become two years from now.

Wishing you all the best for the future,
From the Past and Present Me,

Jess