Very few possess the strength to pursue their childhood passion, whilst being shaped not by traditional customs, but by their intuition. Sophia Sargent, a twenty-five-year-old Bedford native, recognized her calling early, longing to use the camera to tell stories. Despite the challenges of the media, Sophia persevered, starting on television at 21, becoming a radio personality at 23, and interviewing top athletes and celebrities, all the while modeling for the New England Models Group.

While most young people enjoyed the entertainment of Disney Channel shows, including Hannah Montana, Sophia experienced a thrill that transcended the screen, excited by the universal possibilities of television. Though ambitious, Sophia’s parents kept her grounded, unwaveringly encouraging her passion while reminding her of the importance of her studies. This commitment guided her through one of the most difficult crossroads young people must face: her post-high school graduation journey, which would determine her life’s path.

 Upon attending college, she began applying to modeling agencies, but she quickly encountered the industry's harsh rejection. One experience in particular, at the impressionable age of nineteen, completely reformed her perspective. Driving over an hour with her mom on a Sunday morning, Sophia was set to attend her largest runway show yet. Fueled by nervous excitement and anticipation, she fitted gorgeous outfits… Until she was faced with one stubborn zipper. Disparaged by the designer, Sophia was sent home, criticized for not fitting a certain mold, in an industry that claims to showcase authentic styles. Given her young age, Sophia adapted well and learned to accept rejection as a boost to her determination toward her dream.

 “Over time, I realized that not having validation from everyone is actually a gift. It’s part of life — and in many ways, it pushed me to take the leap even more boldly.”
 - Sophia Sargent

 This determination eventually led Sophia to be represented by the New England Models Group in Manchester, which has helped her book amazing opportunities, including serving as the Autofair spokesperson, starring in national commercials for Fanatics, and appearing in numerous other commercials and campaigns. That early negative experience turned out to be a blessing in disguise, opening her eyes to her true mission: To feel free and confident on camera, both with her wardrobe and inner self, eventually leading her to hosting.

 During the peak of her college experience, majoring in Homeland Security at the University of New Hampshire and preparing for spring break, Sophia was forced to pivot rapidly as the world was shut down by the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. In the midst of her uncertainty, she allowed her innate intuition and steadfast willpower to guide her, leading her to give broadcasting a chance. Certain choices in life determine your fate, and this decision to network and acquire knowledge forever changed her life.

“The best part about being young is that it’s the perfect time for trial and error, and to find out what truly lights you up. When you put yourself in the right situations, everything just starts to fall into place.”
 

Using media and modeling creatively, Sophia is constantly finding new ways to connect with the community, share stories that matter, and inspire confidence in others to achieve their goals. She has since had the opportunity to interview stars such as Drake Maye, Johnny Damon, and Camille Kostek, and has championed wellness causes related to biohacking, Lyme disease advocacy, and spreading the importance of healthier lifestyles.

Whether triumphant successes or rejected opportunities, every person, institution, and experience has come into Sophia’s life for a reason, leading her on a winding journey of self-exploration. The moments that tested her boundaries, the late nights, the long drives, and the travel days, are the ones in which she persevered, resulting in enormous personal growth. This maturity has enabled her to live life beyond timelines, trusting the process and following her instincts, resulting in continued high achievement.

As someone committed to new adventures amongst the spontaneity of life, there is no telling how far Sophia will spread her wings. This June, she competed for the Miss Volunteer America crown, a title that would send her across the nation for 365 days, serving alongside organizations like St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the Salvation Army, and amplifying her Lyme disease advocacy on a national stage. And that's just the beginning: a book, a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover, and her own TV show are all on the vision board. Though no matter where her expeditions reach, there is nothing like the feeling of returning to your roots

 “That sense of community and comfort I feel in Bedford is remarkable. No matter where I travel in the world, it will always feel like home. Whether it’s the gorgeous fall foliage, an iced coffee from the Inside Scoop, or simply walking through my childhood neighborhood — nothing compares.”
 

As for any youth who dreams of working in media, whether as a model, broadcaster, TV host, or someone behind the scenes, their spark to follow this passion is an amazing inspiration. Some of Sophia’s best interviews have been with young people, and she encourages all young people to follow their calling, ask fervent questions, and, overall, trust that the universe will guide them to where they are meant to be.

“If you feel even the slightest instinct to go for something, just do it. And if it doesn’t work out, or you fall out of love with it, that’s okay! One big lesson I learned in college was to take that leap. I’ve learned to embrace that uncertainty, and honestly, that’s where the joy of the journey lies.”
 

Above all, Sophia would like to express her deepest gratitude to those who have continuously stood by her throughout her journey thus far. Her friends and family for their unconditional support and encouragement; Her fiancé, Steve, for always being her foundation, keeping her grounded; Sophia’s Miss New Hampshire Volunteer director, SarahJayne Howland, for her unwavering guidance; And the Miss New Hampshire Volunteer 2026 Program sponsors, including Brittany Freeman from Brittany’s Boutique, Pageantry by Chris, Chick-fil-A Newington, Lavo Beauty, Lydia from GLDN Glow, and many more.