1. Tell us about where you are from and how you ended up at the University of Kentucky.
I am originally from Edinburgh, Scotland, where I grew up playing tennis and developed a passion for competing at the highest level. Tennis has taken me to over 30 countries around the world, including competing in Grand Slam tournaments, representing Great Britain at the European Youth Olympics, and captaining Scotland. After competing professionally, I decided to pursue the opportunity to combine high-level athletics with a university education in the United States. The University of Kentucky offered me the opportunity to compete in one of the strongest collegiate athletic conferences in the country, the SEC, while receiving an excellent education at Gatton College of Business and Economics. Looking back, choosing Kentucky has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life.
2. What is your major and how did you decide to pursue it? What are your plans after graduation?
I am double majoring in Economics and Marketing at Gatton. I have always been interested in understanding how businesses operate, how financial markets function, and what drives economic decisions. Studying both Economics and Marketing has allowed me to develop an analytical mindset while also understanding the importance of communication, consumer behavior, and business strategy.
After completing my undergraduate degree in December 2026, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in finance while continuing my collegiate tennis career. Long term, my ambition is to build a successful career in investment management, where I can combine my interest in financial markets with the discipline, competitiveness, and work ethic I have developed through professional and collegiate tennis.
3. As an international student, what has been the most surprising thing about your time here at UK and in Lexington?
One of the biggest surprises has been the sense of community and school spirit at the University of Kentucky. Coming from Scotland, I had never experienced anything quite like the passion surrounding American college athletics, particularly in the SEC. Whether it is attending a Kentucky basketball game at Rupp Arena or representing the Wildcats on the tennis court, the pride people have in this university is incredible.
I have also been surprised by how welcoming everyone in Lexington has been. Moving thousands of miles away from home can be challenging, but the friendships, relationships, and support I have received have made Lexington feel like a second home.
4. How are you able to manage the commitments involved with being both a student athlete at an SEC school, while also managing your coursework?
Balancing academics and athletics at an SEC university requires discipline, time management, and a willingness to make sacrifices. Between early morning training sessions, strength and conditioning, traveling for competitions, and completing coursework, there is very little room for wasted time.
Having competed internationally from a young age, I learned the importance of maintaining a strong work ethic and staying organized. I try to approach my academics with the same competitive mindset that I bring to the tennis court.
I am particularly proud of being named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll, earning CSC Academic All-District recognition, and receiving ITA Scholar-Athlete honors. These achievements demonstrate that it is possible to pursue excellence both academically and athletically. Ultimately, being a student athlete has taught me resilience, accountability, and the importance of consistently showing up and putting in the work which led to me being a part of the SEC regular season and SEC tournament Champions with the men’s tennis team.
5. Has your time at Gatton changed your perspective? What do you see differently now?
Absolutely. My time at Gatton has broadened my perspective on business, economics, and the opportunities available beyond professional sports. Before arriving at Kentucky, much of my life revolved around tennis. While sport remains a huge passion of mine, Gatton has helped me recognize how the skills developed through athletics can translate into success in the business world.
Through my coursework, group projects, and interactions with professors and fellow students, I have developed a greater appreciation for critical thinking, leadership, and the importance of understanding different perspectives.
One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that success is not simply about individual achievement, but also about the relationships you build, the impact you have on others, and your willingness to continue learning. Gatton has given me the confidence to pursue ambitious goals beyond tennis, particularly my aspiration to work in finance and investment management.
