Lexington, Ky. – US Equestrian (USEF) is pleased to announce the five recipients of the USEF Higher Education Equestrian Scholarships for graduating high-school seniors. Created to support students who intend to continue their equestrian careers during college, either through an equestrian-related degree or by riding on an intercollege equestrian team, the scholarship awards a $1,000 grant to each recipient to be used towards their education at their respective college or university.

The five recipients are:

Kaeley Arterburn (LaGrange, Ky.) will be attending the University of Kentucky, pursuing her degree in Equine Science and Management with a pre-veterinarian track. With a love for the Saddlebred breed, Arterburn hopes to become an equine veterinarian, trainer, and/or breeder. Situated in the heart of horse country, Arterburn feels that the University of Kentucky offers her a unique opportunity to pursue her equine passions. Arterburn says, “I know working with horses is a job meant for me and will be a life-long passion.”

Taylor Blasey (Clarksville, Tenn.) will be attending the University of Kentucky this fall, looking to obtain her degree in Chemistry, with a pre-professional interest in Pharmacy. She has a large background with horses, competing in eventing, dressage, and with the United States Pony Club. She plans to continue riding and showing through college on the University of Kentucky’s Eventing and Dressage teams.

“My goal with this path is to, hopefully, tie my chemical foundation education with an equine background,” said Blasey. “I plan to intern at one of the local equine hospitals in order to watch the effects of certain medicines in horses and research possible better approaches to certain remedies.”

Ruth Huggins (Raleigh, N.C.) will be pursuing a degree in Animal Science at North Carolina State University. Her dream is to one day attend veterinary school and become an equine sports medicine and rehabilitation specialist. Taking on a very special horse, Gunnar, with specific health issues, Huggins learned that “patience, good problem-solving, and quality veterinary care can change the life of a misunderstood horse,” solidifying her desire to help horses in her career.

Hannah Michalak (Silverdale, Wash.) plans to attend Oregon State University in the College of Science, pursing a major in Biology. Michalak is interested in pursuing a doctorate degree in sports medicine to become a physician following her undergraduate studies. Riding from an early age and participating in the United States Pony Club, she will continue to ride and compete in eventing during her college attendance.

“In my search for the best college fit, I came across a program that would allow me to delve into my interests in biology and pre-medicine as well as continue my journey as an eventer, in a barn that perfectly suits my horse and me,” said Michalak. “This program is through Oregon State University and I am confident that, through it, I will evolve and progress into a more proficient horsewoman and scientist.”

Chloe Sheth (North Salem, N.Y.) will be attending Clemson University in the fall of 2017, beginning her studies in the university’s Animal and Veterinary Sciences Program in pursuit of her childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian. Sheth has been involved with, and around horses, most of her life, working with equine rescues and pursuing her passion for animals. She hopes to become a member of the Clemson’s Equestrian Team.

“My goal is to develop a practical, working knowledge about animal health, nutrition, food production, and business/management with an equine focus,” said Sheth.” “I am, and will always be, an equestrian. I will never stop pursuing this passion.”

Congratulations to the US Equestrian Higher Education Equestrian Scholarship winners. Learn more about the youth programs offered through US Equestrian.