Sherman Ave Freshman Guide: Horses

Hey all you WildKits out there! If you're anything like me, I know you're super excited to start the best four years of your life at NU, so here are some hot tips about horses to make your Freshman Year truly “Fresh”.

1. Get to Know Your New Friends—Who's Cool, and Who's Trouble

Horses are incredibly social and intelligent animals, who love to talk and play together, but they can also be quite temperamental. When you move in, take some time to walk your horse around, and let him meet your new neighbors. Don't be afraid if your horse seems a little shy—you're all new here, and horses love to make friends! But watch out for troublesome neighbors—especially young colts and mares in heat—because things could turn ugly fast. In those cases, make sure your horse stays separated from their rival, and NEVER let them out to pasture at the same time!

2. Play Hard, Groom Harder

Acclimating to a new school environment can be tough, but it's also a lot of fun! For the first couple weeks, make sure to let your horse get ample time to run around every day. Classes are stressful—imagine how much more stressful it is when you spend all day cooped in your pen! So when work's done for the day, don't be afraid to go a little wild. You deserve it! Just make sure to ALWAYS wash your horse's coat, and keep their mane groomed after bringing them in. Don't wanna look like you're having too much fun!

3. Ride Smart, Ride Safe

College can be a wonderful, passionate time. Some of you will already have a lot of experience, but many freshmen come to college looking to experiment and try new things. Well don't worry, because college is the best time of your life to go out, find a pretty guy or gal, and go horseback riding together. When done right, it can be a beautiful, passionate experience that brings the two of you together, and can relieve a lot of stress from school. When done wrong however, it can cause a lot of physical and emotional trauma. That's why you should ALWAYS respect consent, and NEVER go horseback riding while intoxicated. Even if it seems like you're hitting it off with someone, you should never try to pressure or coerce someone into going horseback riding with you if they don't want to. There's tons of fun stuff you can do with another person and their horse without slapping on a saddle and riding off into the woods. And who knows? If you treat them with respect and dignity, maybe you two can go riding together some time later? ; )

So there you have it, Kit-Kats! My three hottest horse tips for incoming Freshman. I can't wait to see you ALL in the next few weeks, cuz I know it's gonna be a GREAT year. May the odds be ever in your favor! (“Hunger Games” reference.)