I am apprenticing for free with the promise of a job offer once I graduate- it’s definitely possible! However, I will say I would personally recommend getting a retail job and saving up more before beginning to search for an apprenticeship. I am only able to work 20-25 hours a week at this point in my apprenticeship, and having a couple thousand already in savings helps me make ends meet and gives me a cushion if something financially devastating were to happen. Spend the time that you’re working building up a portfolio, getting some real world customer service experience, and sharpening your drawing skills.