Working Student Position in Florida or Other Winter Circuit

[Rel6]

Hey everyone! I am a recent college graduate who is looking for a working student position for the upcoming winter circuit. Any advice on how to go about it would be appreciated.

I have always wanted to do something in the horse profession that focuses on equine sales. However I am realistic about how hard breaking in to the industry is (especially without financial backing) and am planning to go to law school in the fall of 2014. I am taking the LSATS this fall as well as finishing up my last course online, and in my semester off I really want to at least experience life at a top sales or top jumper barn to see if it is something I would eventually want to pursue.

I’ve been riding for 15 years. I have competed up to and including the level 4 jumpers and schooled a max of 1.2m. I did the 4ft section of the EAP two years back and am the social media liaison for a very well known tack company (my degree is in English.) Last year I bought my first horse, an OTTB, and resold him for a profit as a hunter prospect. I have spent this past summer working with very green horses and showing a green pony for a client of my trainer’s (I’m 5’1’’ and 110lbs so I definitely can still ride ponies.)

My ideal position would be working with jumper sales, however I know that my background, while very diverse, does not really qualify me for a job or even a working student position at a top barn. I am realistic about how hard a position like the one I want would be to find with my level of experience. I am also realistic about how much work it would be and want to at least try while I have enough money saved up from selling my horse to support myself.

Any suggestions for how to move forward in finding such a position would be greatly appreciated. I do have a resume and references and am working on making a video of my riding. I have tried Yard and Groom. I would prefer something either in Florida (specifically WEF since I may have accommodations near there) or New York. I would prefer something focusing on jumpers. However I fully recognize that beggars can’t be choosers, and would be very grateful for any sort of position. However I do want to stay within the United States or Canada.

Thanks for any advice or suggestions!

[findeight]

Work through your trainer and get on it NOW. The fact you are older and not wanting horse board, not in school and not wanting mumsy or a chauffeur is a huge plus.

I assume you will not be picky about living quarters or roommates? PERFECT. These things are actually more important then ability. They need there and ready to work.

This could be great fun for you at your point in life as well as a learning opportunity.

[Rel6]

[QUOTE=findeight;7106280]
Work through your trainer and get on it NOW. The fact you are older and not wanting horse board, not in school and not wanting mumsy or a chauffeur is a huge plus.

I assume you will not be picky about living quarters or roommates? PERFECT. These things are actually more important then ability. They need there and ready to work.

This could be great fun for you at your point in life as well as a learning opportunity.[/QUOTE]

There isn’t really anyway I could work through my trainer. She breeds and sells at a local level as starting young horses is what she really enjoys, and therefore doesn’t really have connections to bigger barns. I have learned a ton and really improved my foundation with her, but I am excited to apply what I have learned (and learn more!) in a different setting.

I would definitely not be picky about living quarters or roommates - a dorm room + communal bathroom and a random roommate was more than fine for me two years ago and could be again.

I really want to take advantage of not having any other commitments, bills, and being under my parent’s health insurance which is why I am trying to pursue this now. Thanks for the encouragement, I was a little worried about posting since I’ve seen a lot of negative responses about the benefit of working student positions for ammys.

ETA: I am currently an ammy but don’t mind losing ammy status.

[MHM]

If you have housing of your own near WEF, that is a huge bonus and a big selling point for you. Just start calling people you would like to work with for the winter, or even better, go to a big show where you can catch up with them in person.

The people who are busy with big operations often will hire extra help for WEF since there are so many rings and so many horses involved. The worst anyone will do is say no. Then you ask the next person.

And if they ask about your riding, don’t hesitate to mention that you bought an OTTB, brought it along, and sold it for a clear profit in a short time according to plan. That’s a rare enough feat for anyone to appreciate it. With any horse. :yes:

If you’re in Westchester, I would say get thee to the Gold Cup at Old Salem next month and start talking to people!

[findeight]

Ummm…Rel6?? Why not PM Shorty or CBoylen? I don’t have any contacts anymore but you are in the perfect spot to persue this. Screw the Ammy status, you can get that back and not like you will get Adult Ammy rides dropped in your lap at WEF, and WEF is where you need to go to really get on the inside.

A unique chance to see what’s what and possibly guide your choice of specialty after law school as well as remind you why the school slog will pay off far better then a career mucking, grooming and hand holding- although those are good skills to master dealing with humans in stress situations where it’s all in the details.

Perfect time and place for you this winter, don’t let it slip by. Good luck, and how exciting for you.

[Rel6]

[QUOTE=MHM;7106306]
If you have housing of your own near WEF, that is a huge bonus and a big selling point for you. Just start calling people you would like to work with for the winter, or even better, go to a big show where you can catch up with them in person.

The people who are busy with big operations often will hire extra help for WEF since there are so many rings and so many horses involved. The worst anyone will do is say no. Then you ask the next person.

And if they ask about your riding, don’t hesitate to mention that you bought an OTTB, brought it along, and sold it for a clear profit in a short time according to plan. That’s a rare enough feat for anyone to appreciate it. With any horse. :yes:[/QUOTE]

Thank you! What are opinions of calling versus mailing a hard copy of my resume? I feel like many barns must get numerous phone calls about working student positions, where a resume with my experience might seem less like a tire-kicker. I could also email it but felt that might be less professional than a hard copy.

[QUOTE=findeight;7106316]Ummm…Rel6?? Why not PM Shorty or CBoylen? I don’t have any contacts anymore but you are in the perfect spot to persue this. Screw the Ammy status, you can get that back and not like you will get Adult Ammy rides dropped in your lap at WEF, and WEF is where you need to go to really get on the inside.

Perfect time and place for you this winter, don’t let it slip by. Good luck, and how exciting for you.[/QUOTE]

I’ve been talking Shorty’s ear off about this for the past few months actually, and she’s given me some great recommendations on barns to start with (as well as done some hand holding!) I will definitely pursue contacting CBoylen as well, thank you!

[MHM]

I would say speaking in person at a show is the best approach by far. Way behind that is a phone call with a follow up resume in the mail or email. A resume with no previous contact? Meh.

The person who opens the mail might be far removed from the person who does the hiring.

[lrp1106]

Don’t sell yourself short, you’ve got a lot going for you. You’ve already turned at OTTB for profit (go you!). You competed at EAP. You’re comfortable with green horses and you’re pony-sized. In addition, you’re pretty much ready to get up and go. Definitely start calling around, and like MHM said, definitely mention the OTTB. Start calling, introduce yourself, and tell them that you’re interested in possibly being a working student for the upcoming winter circuit. You can email them a resume and video after you get off the phone, etc. Tell them over the phone how dedicated you are, your work with greenies, your time at EAP, yadda yadda. And always be polite even if they say no or have no room

You may not currently be in training with Katie Prudent, but you’re eager to learn and obviously dedicated. That means a lot. Best of luck to ya!

[MHM]

@lrp1106;7106336

You can email them a resume and video after you get off the phone, etc.

Yes, and it would be smart to have that all prepared so you can send it the minute you get off the phone while it’s still fresh in their minds.

[findeight]

My own barn gets 50 e mailed resumes a week. 49 go in the trash. Of the ones left, most of those follow because of no follow up e mail or phone call and failed reference contacts. If there is any way you can wrangle a personal introduction to hand delver a SHORT, like half a page, resume with references that will check out? That’s a winner, people like personal contact and are more likely to hire off a personal recommendation and trusted reference that checks out then a resume out if cyberspace.

If st all possible, get a place within an hour of Wellington ( that is a big circle in alot of cost range)in advance and plan on just wintering there regardless. That makes you more attractive with all the competition that needs housing.

Wish I could offer more specific help. But if you get there and house/ feed yourself? Somebody is always looking… May be reasons they always need somebody but its a start on a circuit that runs 3 months. Don’t be afraid to jump in.

[HJStyleReport]

Sent you a PM

[findeight]

Forget the ETA, this can stand alone. FORGET THE WORKING STUDENT ANGLE. Just get a groom job. You know, like for money? The whole I will work for rides is tired and there are plenty of young client riders at WEF paying the freight for 1 to lord knows how many ponies and horses clammoring for extra rides. Not to mention Adults signing the checks for those kids and themselves that may perceive themselves as catch riders. They will get the rides before an unknown non client who costs money instead of provides income will. The way it is.

If you prove your work ethic and ability to shut up and do as directed? Rides will come over 3 months. If you go in looking to ride? They got lots of riders and don’t need you. Really, start at that bottom rung on the ladder for best results.

[Rel6]

[QUOTE=findeight;7106348]
My own barn gets 50 e mailed resumes a week. 49 go in the trash. Of the ones left, most of those follow because of no follow up e mail or phone call and failed reference contacts. If there is any way you can wrangle a personal introduction to hand delver a SHORT, like half a page, resume with references that will check out? That’s a winner, people like personal contact and are more likely to hire off a personal recommendation and trusted reference that checks out then a resume out if cyberspace.

If st all possible, get a place within an hour of Wellington ( that is a big circle in alot of cost range)in advance and plan on just wintering there regardless. That makes you more attractive with all the competition that needs housing.

Wish I could offer more specific help. But if you get there and house/ feed yourself? Somebody is always looking… May be reasons they always need somebody but its a start on a circuit that runs 3 months. Don’t be afraid to jump in.[/QUOTE]

My references include two “R” rated judges, trainers I have worked with, and the owner of the tack company I work for (all who I obviously contacted prior to listing them and who agreed to be references for me.) I will work on trying to find out how to make hand delivery possible. I could come back to Westchester for the Gold Cup and try there. My father has a house near Delray, so I would have to talk him but that might be a possibility for me.

HJStyle, I messaged you back!

[Lucassb]

Guess I will be the voice of dissent here. I just don’t think anyone without a very different resume and some decent professional connections is going to get a working student position at a “top jumper barn” at WEF. There are tons and tons of very accomplished riders with big show records looking for those roles, and there are only a handful of top jumper programs with positions available. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a position there and learn a ton.

Realistically, I think your best shot is going to be getting a grooming position, ideally at a top barn, with the goal of getting your foot in the door and maybe working yourself into a WS/riding position. Market Street is looking for someone: http://www.marketstreetinc.com/opportunities.html. (Please note they are always looking for someone, so you’ve been warned) but it may be a great way to get into a top program, and maybe get yourself some introductions to the level of the sport you specify.

If you are without a horse and you want to be at WEF, you have to realize that the top barns are just not going to have horses for you to lesson on. The clients are paying for those BNTs to work their horses, and the sale horses tend to be $$$$$$. But you never know; get your foot in the door and work your @ss off and you may snag an opportunity.

[Rel6]

[QUOTE=Lucassb;7106369]
Guess I will be the voice of dissent here. I just don’t think anyone without a very different resume and some decent professional connections is going to get a working student position at a “top jumper barn” at WEF. There are tons and tons of very accomplished riders with big show records looking for those roles, and there are only a handful of top jumper programs with positions available. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a position there and learn a ton.

Realistically, I think your best shot is going to be getting a grooming position, ideally at a top barn, with the goal of getting your foot in the door and maybe working yourself into a WS/riding position. Market Street is looking for someone: http://www.marketstreetinc.com/opportunities.html. (Please note they are always looking for someone, so you’ve been warned) but it may be a great way to get into a top program, and maybe get yourself some introductions to the level of the sport you specify.

If you are without a horse and you want to be at WEF, you have to realize that the top barns are just not going to have horses for you to lesson on. The clients are paying for those BNTs to work their horses, and the sale horses tend to be $$$$$$. But you never know; get your foot in the door and work your @ss off and you may snag an opportunity.[/QUOTE]

I totally understand that and perhaps my use of the word “top” was misleading. I know I am not going to get a position with the cream of the crop at WEF as a working student and that those who are are probably riders with showing much higher and probably with GP experience. I don’t have my hearth set on a BNT. I really just want a position where I can learn.

I will consider going the groom route as well. A working student position would be preferable to me because I would love to get saddle time as quickly as possible since I am somewhat limited in how long I could groom before law school. I am realistic though that being able to ride would be a huge privilege and something to be earned. But I am not averse to hard work and definitely understand that you can learn just as much being on the ground.

[findeight]

Again, start as a groom no later then December and ingratiate yourself to your employer. Let them know you can ride, bring the saddle every day. But…you have to either pay for or earn the saddle time and a million paying clients and their kids are ahead of you.

Just get down there, get a place to live and get your foot in the door, that’s going to open it more then going down as a WS looking primarily for rides youre not going to get ahead of clients and better known aged out Juniors still hanging around the grounds for a season.

You WILL learn more about the business mucking at WEF with ears open that will serve in your professional life down the road then fighting deep pocket clients for rides on good horses in good barns. Mouth shut, ears open and you may find future clients and/ or get an understanding of how things work in the professional horse businesses.

If you do this right , you can satisfy a last hurrah as a kid to chuck it all and do what you want while building a knowledge base to allow you to specialize in Equine related cases and in 15 years be one of those clients.

[Rel6]

[QUOTE=findeight;7106402]

If you do this right , you can satisfy a last hurrah as a kid to chuck it all and do what you want while building a knowledge base to allow you to specialize in Equine related cases and in 15 years be one of those clients.[/QUOTE]

This is exactly what I want to do. Definitely good points. “Mouth shut, ears open” is a great way to describe what I have been doing this summer and I definitely know the benefit of soaking up everything like a sponge.

Thanks again for all the advice everyone.

[kmwines01]

Not WEF and not jumpers but if you’re looking for sales experience contact Courtney Cooper at C Square Farm. Its eventing but she can seriously sell some horses and would be a good person to learn about sales business from.

[hunterrider23]

Rel6, pm me. I know of a few options that go down south (wef, Pensacola, Gulfport and Ocala) that have their home bases in the mid south with possible openings. If you have a pretty flexible schedule and can get down to TN before Sept. 1, then I’ve got a good connection for you.

[Rel6]

Hunterrider23 your inbox was full so I clicked “send email” instead, I hope that is okay.

Thanks for the suggestion kmwines01, I browsed their website and it seems like they have other working students with no eventing experience either.

Just to add, I am used to being low man on the totem pole at barns (a lesson kid when everyone else leased, leasing when everyone else owned, etc) so I am fully aware that a higher paying client (or in a working student case, any paying client!) is going to be a much much higher priority and get more rides. I have no problem earning and working for opportunities, as that is what I have always had to do albeit on a smaller scale.