Meet Louise Donohue: University of Hertfordshire Sport and Exercise Science Alumni

Louise Donohue was the first female team member at Watford FC’s sport and exercise science department, and now she wants to help women improve their health and wellbeing.

Louise Donohue graduated from the University of Hertfordshire’s Bachelor of Science in Sport and Exercise Science program in 2021. Louise tells us more about how her experiences at the University of Hertfordshire have helped her in her career.

University opportunities and experiences

To kick start her career in sport and exercise science, Louise undertook internships and volunteering opportunities whilst studying at the University of Hertfordshire to gain real-world experience outside of the classroom.

She says, 'I threw myself into everything I could, and I did things that I never thought I would. One of them was interning with Saracens Mavericks netball team (formerly Benecos Mavericks) in the Performance Analysis team and I got this opportunity through volunteering with the elite teams at Herts. I also volunteered as a coach at the British Universities & Colleges Sport competition (BUCS) with the University's Boxing Team, and we came away with silver and bronze medals, both earned by female competitors. As a boxer myself I also competed in the BUCS Boxing competition'.

Louise also had a fantastic placement experience with Watford FC. She says, 'What a year, I cannot believe I did it! My placement was with the first team at Watford FC in the sport and exercise science department. I was the first female to work in this team, and the first female intern. It was full of challenges, and I had to break the barriers of previously common 'norms' of females in football and the traditional views of the many different managers, as well as trying to learn in a high-stress and fast-paced environment.

This placement helped me develop as a person as well as professionally and I met some incredible people. It sadly came to a premature end, due to the COVID-19 pandemic however I was incredibly pleased to hear that the year after they also took on another female intern. I like to think I paved the way for other women and helped to break down barriers which has led to more equal opportunities and an increased respect for women working in this industry.'

'From the moment I stepped into the lecture hall, I knew Herts was the place for me and the course was the right choice and what I wanted to do. I found the staff very professional but also down-to-earth and helpful. Dr Lindsy Kass, Dr Luke Oates and Dr Terun Desai really stand out for facilitating my learning and helping to shape me into the person I am now. I learnt so much from studying at Herts. I have accumulated a wealth of knowledge, was encouraged to pursue my curiosities, and now believe that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.'

Aspirations for the future

Since graduating Louise has explored her passion for supporting women's health and wellbeing. Building knowledge and experience in this field she has worked for charities and councils as a health consultant and coach specialising in maternal care, as well as gaining Personal Training and Pre and Postnatal exercise qualifications.

Louise has now embarked upon a new business venture called Blossom Wellness, an online platform full of expert information and free resources focusing on menopause, pregnancy, postnatal care, and menstrual health. She plans to grow her business with coaching and webinars designed for women at different stages in their life.

Louise says, 'When I started University, I thought I wanted to be a PE teacher, then I wanted to work in elite sport. However, one day something just clicked, and I realized that my true passion is women's health. I then wrote my dissertation and through my research into this area found I could start my own business which helps other women. I will forever be grateful to Herts for facilitating my passion for this area.'