In today’s equine industry potential employees and entrepreneurs need credentials and field-related experience to stand out from their competition in the job market. They also need different program choices, opportunities for internships, and chances to work while they study.
Fortunately, students interested in working with horses can find all this at Hocking College. The following are some examples of why students should consider enrolling in Hocking College's equine program.
- The faculty. Hocking College’s equine programs are staffed by highly qualified and experienced faculty that are experts in their given fields. Many have lived and worked in different parts of the U.S. This factor enables them to have a well-rounded grasp of the industry, and what employers and customers want and need from graduates.
- No previous experience needed. Since Hocking’s equine programs all start at a foundation level, prospective students do not need to have any previous experience with horses to enroll.
- The campus. Hocking College's campus has two outdoor arenas, pasture land with three-sided sheds for horses, a large barn with almost 30 stalls, wash racks, a feed & tack room, an office, foaling stalls, and a paddock. They also have miles and miles of trails, and are currently in the planning stages of building an indoor arena.
- The hands-on experience. Hocking College offers technical classes that include both lecture and lab times to ensure students get a balance of theoretical knowledge and hands-on time with the horses. Students will also learn about the essential equipment and type of work environment they need to be familiar with in order to be prepared to enter their field of choice.
- The classes. Hocking College’s equine program offers core classes that will prepare students for many different careers in the equine industry, including specialty classes that compliment each specific program.
- The intercollegiate events. Hocking College has a western equestrian team that offers all students the chance to practice and compete in intercollegiate events across the region, as well as post-season competitions for any member who qualifies to move on. Riders are not required to own their own horse, equipment, clothing, or have prior show experience to compete.
- The horse club. Hocking College offers a Horse Club that gives both equine and non-equine students a chance to engage in extra-curricular activities with one another.
For more information on Hocking College’s Equine Programs, contact Equine Science Program Manager, Bethany Siehr, by email at siehrb@hocking.edu or by phone at (740) 753-6282.
