A Day in the Life of a College Equestrian

Balancing college classes, early mornings, and time in the saddle takes dedication. For many collegiate riders, the barn becomes a second home between lectures, workouts, and late-night study sessions.

We recently caught up with Nora, a junior at Converse University and member of the equestrian team, to learn what a typical day looks like for a college rider juggling academics and horses.

    

From Childhood Love to College Riding

Nora has loved horses for as long as she can remember.

“I’ve always loved horses,” she says. “And I still do.”

Although her riding journey has been somewhat inconsistent over the past decade, she took a break to pursue cross country running in high school, when the unexpected opportunity to ride in college helped solidify her passion for the sport.

“The opportunity it provided and the willingness to take me as a beginner really made me want to ride in college.”

At Converse, Nora competes in Novice on the Flat, riding school horses through the collegiate program.

 

Early Mornings and Full Days

Being a student-athlete means the day often starts before the sun comes up.

“Typically I have to get up around 4–5 AM for weights,” Nora explains.

After early morning strength training, she heads to class. As an Art Education major, her day often includes courses like painting, drawing, and Women in Art before heading out to the barn later in the day.

Between academics and riding, time management becomes an essential skill.

Practice and Training

The Converse equestrian team trains multiple times throughout the week.

“We practice four days a week total,” Nora says. “Two days are lessons and two days are strength and weight training.”

Practice sessions typically focus on developing strong fundamentals in the saddle.

“Flat work, core and balance work, and then some light jumping.”

Even outside of riding, conditioning plays an important role. Strength training helps riders develop the balance, stability, and endurance needed to perform well in the saddle.

Competition Days

During the season, the team usually attends six to seven shows.

While competitions can bring nerves, they also come with some of the most memorable moments.

“The most exciting part of show days is dinner with the team,” Nora says.

Like many riders, competition can bring a mix of excitement and nerves.

“Honestly, everything makes me nervous. But mostly the pressure of doing my best.”

Learning from Horses

For Nora, some of the most meaningful parts of riding happen during everyday moments at the barn.

“My favorite part is the cuddles and teamwork,” she says. “Feeling them listen to me, and listening to them myself.”

Working with horses has also taught lessons that extend far beyond riding.

“They’ve taught me to be patient and to trust others.”

Of course, horses also bring their fair share of humor.

“Vinnie will pee in the crossties after a ride… but not in the wash rack where there’s a drain,” she laughs. “And Diamond has to yawn for five minutes before you put her bridle on.”

Balancing School and the Barn

Like many student-athletes, balancing school and riding can be challenging.

“The hardest part is managing time and energy,” Nora explains.

Despite the busy schedule, being part of the equestrian team has been incredibly rewarding.

“The friendships I’ve made have been the best part.”

Advice for Future College Riders

For riders who dream of continuing the sport in college, Nora has one simple piece of advice:

“Keep your eyes out and don’t underestimate your own ability.”

Opportunities can come from unexpected places, and many collegiate programs welcome riders with a wide range of experience levels.