UK a natural choice for the equine field

Although the equine program at the University of Kentucky is just a few years old, the benefits of going to school in the “Horse Capital of the World” are so numerous, students everyday see the result- building connections in the field and getting guidance for their future careers.  

A recent tradition that has been started for those Equine Science and Management program is our annual Equine Career Fair held on campus. This fair has become not only a fantastic resource for students to make connections for their mandatory internship (required for all equine majors but students absolutely love the hands-on experience), but it also gives students a chance to see the plethora of job opportunities in Lexington and beyond.  This year in particular, students at UK (and even a few students from other colleges) gathered on our campus to talk to industry leaders in areas such as equine rescue and training, racehorse businesses, equine farm management, saddlebred training, equine research, graduate school preparation, Keeneland, Equine Hospitals, Flying Darby opportunities, Therapeutic riding facilities, and much, much more.  For students who were looking for ways to get involved in the industry, they were able to talk directly to employers and fill out volunteer applications, internship forms, or gain a greater idea of what was required to reach their current goals.   

 For more information, and to see other equine related information, as well as to see pictures and students participating in a multitude of events and programs, check out the Equine Student Hub.  

I hope if you are interested in pursuing a degree in the Equine industry, you will look more into our program and hopefully, like me, see the many opportunities that are available to students.  See Blue and Go CATS!

Veronica is an equine science/pre-vet student from Maryland.  She is a Resident Advisor on campus and is involved in many campus activities.

Fall semester is underway- and there's lots to do!

It’s that wonderful time of year again!  Cars packed full of things, mom and dad eager to drop their child off, and students ready to start their journey full of independence and individuality.  The official new student move-in day for UK was Saturday, August 18.  Campus was buzzing with new students, parents, and returning students eager to help move-in the incoming freshman.   On Sunday, returning students moved into their dorms as well.  All in all, everyone is now settled into their apartments and dorms ready to start or continue their UK journey. 

Wednesday arrived and it was the first day of classes.  Campus was lively with students hustling to find their classes and relieved once they found their room and a seat.  It was great seeing friends and professors again, as well as meeting new students.

                One of the things I love about being back at school is football games.  It’s not a complete UK experience until you’ve attended a football game.  The aroma of grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, playin’ corn hole, friends and families gathered, is an atmosphere you can’t resist! One of my favorite things about attending football games is standing in the student section.  I love being beside the band and shouting cheers at the top of your lungs.  The next morning, your ears will ring a little and you probably won’t have a voice, but it’s so worth it!

                Another great event in the College of Ag is the Student/Faculty/Staff Picnic being held next week as part of UK Ag Roundup.  It is for new and returning students and is free to attend.  It’s a great way to meet College of Ag students and you can meet your professors on a more personal level too.  There’s free food and there’s also a raffle with cool prizes you can win.  Last year I won a College of Ag sweatshirt and I wear it all the time!  Tickets for the picnic can be picked up in Ag North or Erikson Hall. 

                Once again, welcome back everyone!  I hope everyone has a fantastic semester. Go Big Blue!

 Erin is a sophomore majoring in Equine Science & Management.  She is from Cary, North Carolina.  Erin is an avid photographer and has future career plans of being an equine surgeon and horse racing photographer.  She is in her first year as a College of Agriculture Ambassador.