The 33-year-old veterinary nursing graduate from Staffordshire has also been named the latest recipient of the Louise O’Dwyer Emergency and Critical Care Scholarship – a national awarded scholarship that recognises passion, professionalism, and potential in one of the most demanding areas of animal care.

“My journey into veterinary nursing began before I had my children, when I completed an Access to HE course at University Centre Reaseheath,” she explains.

“During that time, I had the opportunity to work across the farm, equine yard and zoo, which completely opened my eyes to the many career paths available within animal care. I knew from then that I wanted to build a meaningful career around helping animals and supporting the people who love them.”

That early experience set Sophie on a path through Reaseheath’s BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Nursing – a journey that demanded balance, resilience and heart.

“As a lone parent balancing study, work and raising two children, there were times I questioned if I could do it all,” she admits. “Receiving this scholarship made every late night and sacrifice feel worthwhile.”

The scholarship, run by Improve Veterinary Education in memory of the late Louise O’Dwyer – one of the most influential veterinary nurses of her generation – recognises exceptional dedication to emergency and critical care.

“It’s such an honour to be recognised in this way,” Sophie says. “It also means so much to show my children that hard work, passion and perseverance can make anything possible.”

Louise O’Dwyer’s influence on the profession isn’t lost on her. “She was an incredible professional, known not just for her expertise, but for her compassion, humility and commitment to mentoring others. Being connected to her legacy inspires me to carry forward those same values in my own career, to keep learning, support my colleagues, and approach every case with empathy and professionalism.”

Sophie also seized opportunities to grow beyond the classroom.

 “I went to Kenya on a study tour, which was fantastic,” she says. “It really encouraged me to pass my OSCEs so that I can potentially visit again as a Registered Veterinary Nurse to help the veterinary team. It was the best experience – and I’m so grateful to Reaseheath for providing the opportunity.”

She says her time at Reaseheath gave her the perfect foundation for life in practice.

“The combination of hands-on experience, academic teaching, and supportive mentors gave me a solid grounding. The lecturers genuinely cared about our progress and pushed us to be confident, competent, and compassionate nurses. The structure of the course – from practical assessments to placements – reflected real-life veterinary work, so stepping into my professional role felt like a natural transition.”