Sophie Bellamy, Spence Agricultural Scholar 2024

Starting my journey at the University of Nottingham has been an incredible opportunity, I have made many friends for life and immersed myself in the university life. I joined various societies such as dance, horse polo and of course the Agricultural society. 

I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of the Agricultural society, my highlights being the annual society trip, this year we went to Carlisle and visited dairy, arable and mixed farms as well as the informative tour round G’s Farm learning about their inputs, production and distribution of vegetables. I have found all the trips so beneficial, not only widening my agricultural knowledge but also helping me to construct my academic reports, such as the report I wrote on the dairy X beef system for my Sustainability in Agricultural systems module. Going into my second year I have been successful in being voted into the role of excursions officer, therefore I am incredibly excited to organise various trips for the society and welcome all new members. 

The generous scholarship money has enabled me to take part in many societies and therefore make many friends and have incredible opportunities such as the agricultural tour to Carlisle. I have also spent some grant money on travelling to various farm trips I have been on this academic year such as the dairy tech show and G’s Growers Farm. As well as this I have also been able to purchase stationary supplies to aid my revision for exams which thoroughly helped with organisation and enabling me to perform to my highest potential.  

This scholarship has been incredibly beneficial to my academic results as well as making lots of friends and participating in social events, all contributing to a successful first year. I cannot wait for what second year brings!