Student Spotlight: Sophie Williams
When standout senior pitcher Sophie Williams from Vernon, Texas was recruited to play for the Drover softball team, she found a welcoming community that offered everything she needed to achieve her future goals. Her passion for softball and drive to succeed have flourished both on the field and in the classroom.
Williams has earned numerous accolades, including being named SAC Pitcher of the Year twice and a three-time NAIA All-American. Her team has reached the NAIA national tournament for three consecutive years, winning several SAC championships along the way. One of her fondest memories is winning their regional for the past three years.
"Being a student-athlete at USAO has allowed me to chase my childhood dream of playing softball, while pursuing a degree for my future career," said Williams. " Since freshmen year, I have learned how to ask for help when I need it, and how to use the resources offered throughout campus. I have also been able to establish relationships with people outside of my sport, whether it be through study groups, or from classes outside of my major, which I believe is a reflection of what USAO is like."
Williams is majoring in physical education with a minor in biology, aiming to further her education after graduation to become a physical therapy assistant . She feels confident that her coursework has prepared her well for this next step.
"I chose my major because it offers all the prerequisite courses I need for PTA school,” said Williams. “Because of this, I am not only prepared for PTA school, but also a few steps ahead in applying.”
Williams credits many mentors for her success, particularly Dr. Jason Shaw, professor of biology, who has been a constant source of support both in and out of the classroom.
"Dr. Shaw has always been willing to help, even when I had to miss class for games,” said Williams. “He and other professors show incredible support for our extracurricular activities, which means a lot to my teammates and me."
Reflecting on her time at USAO, Williams is grateful for the opportunities and experiences she has had.
"I recommend USAO to prospective students because it’s a place of opportunity. The professors know you by name and genuinely care about you beyond academics,” she said. “The community here is something special. The atmosphere and support we receive from the town and the university has left us speechless each year. I mean, the president traveled to Georgia to watch us play in the [World] Series… we consider ourselves pretty lucky.”
After her expected graduation in 2025, Williams looks forward to continuing her journey, equipped with the knowledge and skills she gained at USAO. "I will never be able to repay USAO for all that it has meant to me. My greatest opportunities and greatest people have met me here. Forever green and gold," she said.
If you or someone you know is looking for a supportive and enriching college experience, consider joining the Drovers at USAO! Applications for the 2024 Fall semester are now open. Complete your application at usao.edu/apply.
About the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma
As Oklahoma’s liberal arts college, the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma provides a distinctive education in the liberal arts and sciences, supporting both its interdisciplinary core curriculum and major fields of study with superior teaching. USAO fosters diversity of thought and practice to help students realize meaningful, purposeful and productive lives as global citizens in a rapidly-changing world.