How much does it matter to my future if I start an engineering apprenticeship in a small or big company?
TLDR at the bottom.
I just finished A levels with AAA and for a year I applied to over 60 companies big and small.
I'm thinking mechanical, aerospace, maybe civil, design focused roles. Not a repair technician. Someone who designs, builds, and installs the machines. And teaches repair technicians how to fix it. CAD, drawing, client work.
I'm asking because I have the option to take an apprenticeship in a smaller company to start in September this year.
Or I can risk and take a "gap year" to be able to apply to big companies. I think I have a good shot, I've improved massively and got to 6 final stages in my 60 applications. I kinda bummed the first few cuz I wasn't so focused and didn't prepare much.
In my gap year I would be helping my parents with work, and hopefully get a job. And focus on some engineering related hobbies
So TLDR:
Take the small company this year. Or do a gap year, apply to all the big ones, and risk not getting any at all (plus a year of time gone).
How does my choice impact my future career path?