Megan rode 39 winners in a six year career as a jockey but struggled with injuries. Whilst being treated at Jack Berry House, she had a eureka moment realising that she wanted to pursue a second career as a physiotherapist. She applied for a JETS Scholarship and in September 2021, she began her third and final year of her BSc Sports & Exercise Therapy degree at York St. John University.
How has JETS supported you in your new career?
I worked very closely with JETS Personal Development Manager Phil Kinsella to prepare an application for the course which is joint funded by JETS as part of their scholarship scheme. I didn’t actually have enough points but luckily my background as a jockey and a good reference from the team at Jack Berry House was enough to get me a place on the course.
What have been the most challenging aspects of returning to study?
Obviously COVID has not helped but I also have had a second child during my second year so it’s been tough juggling everything with the children and work (riding out at Brian Ellison’s) so I’ve had to do a lot of studying at night when the kids have gone to bed. I missed out on a lot of the practical aspects of the course due to lockdown but I’ve always had a fantastic support team around me and the fact I’ve been able to do some shadowing work at Jack Berry House has really helped me with my studies.
What are your ambitions for the future?
Once I’ve finished my dissertation next Spring, my ideal goal would be to get a job at Jack Berry House. During my work experience there, my experience as a jockey has really helped me relate to the patients a lot more and I’m familiar with a lot of the injuries they present. I know a lot of people there and am able to have a good craic with them.
Find out more about the JETS Scholarship Scheme.