Sarah Simpson may have successfully negotiated legal contracts in her former career but switching from law to veterinary science has proved just as successful for the University of Queensland Gatton student
Sarah, a final year student in UQ’s School of Veterinary Science, has won the inaugural Associate Professor Martin Pearson Prize, which rewards a student who display academic excellence - and an aptitude towards anaesthesia.
The prize was established in memory of Associate Professor Martin Pearson of the School of Veterinary Science who was tragically killed in 2014 and funded by gifts provided by his family, friends and colleagues.
Associate Professor Pearson was the Superintendent of the UQ Veterinary Medical Centre at Gatton.
A leading specialist veterinary anaesthetist, he was passionate about pain relief in animals.
Sarah said she was honoured to receive the award.
“I have a strong interest in small animal medicine, particularly feline, endocrinology and radiology,” she said.
“Ideally I would like to do an internship upon graduation so I can immerse myself into these aspects of veterinary medicine that I love.”
During her UQ student career, Sarah has been a Vice-President of the University of Queensland Veterinary Students Association, and a representative and treasurer for the special interest group, UQ Vets Beyond Borders.
She was also president of the 54th Australasian Veterinary Students Conference at UQ’s Gatton campus.
Sandy Vigar Pearson, Martin‘s widow, was honoured to represent the Pearson family and present the inaugural prize to Sarah.
This year is the 80th anniversary of UQ’s School of Veterinary Science. People wishing to support its work can- find more information here.