How realistic is getting back into the horse business?

[bstarlight]

So I recently graduated from college with a BA and although I love school, I know I want to get into the horse business as a young professional. I was not able to keep up with riding throughout university due to finances/lack of time. I would love to reach out for an apprenticeship at a barn but am worried about how realistic that is. I have no problem working extremely hard as I have a good work ethic and being a professional in this industry is something I absolutely know I want. So my question is after such a break, how realistic is it that I would be successful in undertaking such a task?

I am also close with my old trainer so can ask for their help with connections as well but wanted to get a general opinion. Thank you!

[541hunter]

By apprenticeship, do you mean like a working student position? Or assistant trainer? The former is very realistic, assuming you have a reasonable baseline of knowledge and can make a trade-only or low-pay position work financially—especially if you have a network you can tap into. You may or may not ride a lot as a WS though, depending on the program setup. A true, paid assistant riding/training position will require better riding skills and more experience, depending on your location and what level of program you’re looking to join.

This is a good time to look though as many bigger show programs are finalizing winter circuit plans and are more likely to be looking for assistants to stay home or extra help while they’re on the road. If I were an ambitious recent grad looking to get into the higher levels of sport (and had some financial backing, e.g. a safety net if riding didn’t work out), I’d try to get a WS or even a groom position with a reasonably well-known program for WEF or Thermal. You’ll make a lot of connections and if you’re good, can probably find a full-time gig by the end of the circuit. Plus, it’s a relatively short commitment if you decide you’d rather find a non-horsey job and just ride as an ammy.

[bstarlight]

Sorry for the lack of clarification, I am definitely leaning more towards a working student type of position at the moment as opposed to an assistant trainer type