Hey fellow applicants, I'm really into horseback riding and would like to continue that passion when I go to college. Can anyone recommend some colleges with equestrian teams or programs? Would love to hear about your experiences with them, too!
Absolutely! There are quite a few colleges with equestrian teams or programs. Here are some examples:
1. Auburn University - Auburn has a successful equestrian team that has won multiple national championships. They offer full scholarships for riders who make the team.
2. University of Georgia - UGA's equestrian team also has an impressive record, consistently ranking among the top in the nation. Their program includes both hunt seat and western riding disciplines.
3. Texas A&M University - The Texas A&M equestrian team is also highly competitive, with a strong program in both hunt seat and western riding.
4. College of Charleston - The College of Charleston offers both a competitive club team and a varsity equestrian team that competes in Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) events.
5. Mount Holyoke College - This women's college in Massachusetts has a strong equestrian program and an excellent equestrian center, with a competitive team that frequently finishes near the top in IHSA competitions.
6. Virginia Tech - Virginia Tech's equestrian team is club-based, but it's still quite competitive, offering opportunities to compete in both hunt seat and western riding.
7. Sweet Briar College - With a strong equestrian tradition, this women's college in Virginia has an equestrian program, top-notch facilities, and a competitive team.
Keep in mind that there are many more colleges with equestrian programs or teams. The Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) and National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) websites are excellent resources to find colleges with equestrian teams.
In terms of experiences, you may find that club and varsity teams have different levels of commitment and competitiveness. Some team members may practice and compete almost year-round, while others may participate more casually based on their class schedules and other commitments. It's essential to find a school and a team that align with your goals, academic interests, and riding abilities. Talking to current team members at schools you're interested in can provide valuable insight into the program and the overall equestrian experience. Good luck!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.