At North Carolina State University, I worked to familiarize myself more with different parts of the equine industry by becoming both a teaching assistant for the equine science class and a volunteer at the university’s equine unit.

I have 15+ years of horse care and riding experience. My family has sixteen horses and an professional boarding, breeding, and lesson barn of our own that, from a young age, I was expected to contribute to by helping to raise, train, and care the horses. As a teenager, I sought to be officially employed as a barn staff member. I worked as staff for four years and made my way up to being a beginner riding instructor and the official barn manager. I was a barn manager and instructor for a full year before moving to pursue higher education, although I still occasionally contribute to the barn as general staff now. I have done everything from managing employees and appointments (farrier, vet, dentist, etc.) to birthing a healthy set of twin fillies to general barn maintenance (mucking, feeding, fence fixing, etc.).

Although the barn I worked for was not a therapeutic riding center, they did occasionally partner with such organizations, and therefore I have experience working with the disabled. I also love working with children. Having gone to vet school for two years, and working as a veterinary assistant for three years, I am also an expert in equine health care and first aid. I am experienced working with foals and broodmares too. I have worked at breeding facilities both at home and during college.

I am an expert in natural horsemanship, particularly in Pat Parelli and Clinton Anderson's methods. I have started and green broke many of our horses from the ground into the saddle using these methods. I ride hunt seat and prefer flatwork or small jumps.

For a time I was also part of the Sandy Ridge Pony Club and rode competitively. Although this was short lived, I have helped organize and occasionally still participate in local shows.