Our Students

Richmond, Illinois

I am a Sophomore at Black Hawk College receiving an Associates in Equine Science. Last spring, I went on an internship with Marty Barnes PRCA. While I was on internship, I learned how to work with catch horses and barrel horses. Additionally, I learned how to be a ranch hand, how to sort, and work around the bulls. My biggest accomplishment was getting to work alongside the Pro Rodeo Association. My performance riding class is my favorite and I get to take it with my school horse, Red. I am also on the Western Show Team here at BHE. At the show that Black Hawk hosted, I took high point beginner rider, and then at the Missouri State Show, I pointed up and qualified for the IHSA regionals. After college I plan to work in the rodeo industry with the roping or start my own training and flipping horses business. And my Goal is to eventually run a training or boarding operation. 

Beloit, Wisconsin 

North Liberty, Iowa

When I was younger I was interested in anything with horses. I did get in the show arena a few times and absolutely loved every second of it. I went through school and graduated High School. When I went off to college at Black Hawk East, I knew I had made the best decision in my life when I joined the Western Equestrian Team. As an incoming freshman, I qualified to go to IHSA Nationals as an individual rider. This experience and opportunity was unbelievable, I was so very blessed. I competed in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and ended my season with a Reserve Champion in the Beginner division. I can not explain the excitement and adrenaline I had when I walked into that arena. I think the most important part of being on this team was my teammates which further down the road we turned into family. I honestly could not have gotten this far without them. I especially think my coach was one of my biggest influencers and encouragement who helped me through many of my struggles and pieces in this journey. Being a reserve champion in the beginner division as a freshman was one of my biggest accomplishments. My plan is to graduate with an associates in Equine Science and Equine Technology. After graduating Black Hawk East, I plan to transfer to a 4 year and continue my education with business classes.