<p>We are really struggling with what to do on this one. She is a very good student and could probably get into some top-notch schools, but is choosing to down-grade based on the fact that she can take her horse to school. (We just cant afford high-end college + horse)</p>
<p>How should we go about looking at schools that are equestrian-friendly? She doesnt want to go to an all-girls "horse" school, but we are having a hard time making a decision. One of the major problems we have run into is whether the school allows freshman to have cars. Most dont. And in order to ride daily at an off-campus boarding facility, she needs a car. </p>
<p>I think this is really more of a rambling on of sorts, but just looking for some basic advice (or a "it IS possible!") from parents that have sent their child to school with a horse in tow...</p>
<p>"At Sewanee, a liberal arts education -- with its emphasis on values, writing and speaking, reflection, and familiarity with literature, history, philosophy, languages, sciences, mathematics and the arts -- is considered the best possible preparation for a life of achievement and service in a diverse and rapidly changing world."</p>
<p>We did a trip over the summer to Sewanee and it is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful locations/campuses I have ever seen and this includes son's current school p'ton.</p>
<p>The horse facilities were much, much nicer than daughter's facilities at NCSU equestrian research facility and vet school. The school has their horses and students are invited to bring their own, stables right on campus. Sewanee has one of the largest campuses (miles not students!), and some of the nicest riding trails. I can't say enough great things about the school and its opportunities.</p>
<p>I just wish one of my kiddos would have considered this school. My sis and I both went on the visit and we both said how we would love the school NOW for us! I know my oldest daughter would have loved this school if we had known about it. Such a contrast to the large uni (NCSU) she graduated from (BS in animal science with equine concentration). Sigh.</p>
<p>Needless to say I was very impressed. Very horsey!!!</p>
<p>and I thought we had an issue because my D wanted to take her racing bike to college. Fortunately, she decided to wait and then found out she was too busy and had other things to do.</p>
<p>My D has a good friend who chose Sewanee and the ability to board the horse was a big part of the choice. We have several kids from the area who have attended the school and it is evidently an excellent education.</p>
<p>Williams has two stables within walking distance of the campus plus an equestrian club. I'm not sure what you mean by not being able to afford a "high-end college + horse". Just about any private college is going to be pricy unless your daughter qualifies for aid.</p>
<p>“Horseback riding is a summer activity at Clover Hill Farm (458-3637) on Adams Road. Horse boarding is available. The farm also has a small bed and breakfast. Bonnie Lea Farm (458-3149) on North Street offers horseback riding lessons, boarding and trail rides.”</p>
<p>Bridgewater and Emory & Henry in Virginia. Both throw a pretty good chunk of merit money at students who are above their 75% percentiles. </p>
<p>Both allow Freshman to drive. The horse thing isn't important for my son's search at all, but I was a little surprised to see how often the question was addressed on the campus visits. Being allowed to bring a cat to a dorm room would be a far bigger incentive for him, but very, very few schools allow anything more than fish. </p>
<p>I also second Sewanee, but it is pretty pricey if you don't get merit money and don't qualify for very much need-based aid.</p>
<p>My horse has been going to Trinity College ... actually she is living across the river 15 minutes away from the college ... and is being leased/ridden by a current junior. A student really would need a car to get out to horse country -- but it could be done via public transportation if you pick your stable accordingly.</p>
<p>Once upon a time, I was the coach for the Wheaton College equestrian team -- the team rode at the private boarding stable across the street -- but it's now condominiums. </p>
<p>Mount Holyoke has stables on campus. The Amherst/Northampton area is pretty horsey.</p>
<p>What sort of riding does your daughter do? And how fancy is her steed? Is this an animal that needs a show stable? Or will good basic care do? Does the pair need a trainer and barn manager and indoor arenas? Or just trails and pastures?</p>
<p>A bus is picking my daughter up at Columbia and taking her across the river to the barn. I thought that was pretty neat. One thing you have to look at is what kind of riding program the school concentrates on. For instance, the Columbia team is hunter jumper and my daughter has 10 years of training in another discipline. The unlearning process is a challenge for her because many things are very different. She did not really look for a school where she could take her horse, but it was always in the back of her mind whether a barn was nearby, although oddly enough we thought she was giving riding up for a while when she chose New York. Thus, I was a little surprised when I got the call asking for dues for the riding team. Anyway, while looking at schools, we saw a nice barn at UVA and there is a beautiful new stable right by Tulane. I would think Missouri, North Carolina and Virginia have many possibilities for barns near schools if not part of them, as, of course, does Kentucky.</p>
<p>Riders of all experience levels and backgrounds needed for the
Washington and Lee Varsity Equestrian Team, including those who have
always wanted to ride but have never had the chance, or who haven't
ridden in a few years. </p>
<p>Riding at W&L is a varsity sport, which means that the University
pays for all the costs associated, including lessons and horse
shows. It is a great way to stay involved with horses throughout
college in a low-key, inexpensive and fun team environment! </p>
<p>The team will be holding tryouts next week at our new location of
AYR Show Stables in Collierstown. If you missed the information
session on Monday but are still interested, or just want more
information, please email Lilly Haywood, at <a href="mailto:haywoodl@wlu.edu">haywoodl@wlu.edu</a>.</p>
<p>Mount Holyoke College - not an "all girls horse school" but it is a highly rated all women's college with a first class stable and riding facility right on campus (so no need to have a car.)</p>
<p>They have a Focus on Riding session Nov. 16 and 17 -- "Focus on Riding is a great way for serious riders to learn more about riding at this outstanding college. Take a tour of the Equestrian Center. Learn about teams, lessons, and boarding options. Meet with current Mount Holyoke riders who will host you for dinner and an overnight in one of our beautiful residence halls. Take a campus tour and have an interview."</p>