Blood, sweat, and tears are essential in working with horses. The early mornings and late nights in the barn show true dedication and grit that are essential for outstanding horsemen and women. The anticipation and adrenaline working with these animals that could harm you in an instant are like a drug, making me crave for my next fix like a junkie. When I was little, animals were my love. I always grew up around animals and were surrounded with animal breeds, caretaking, and animal health books. I loved all animals big and small, furry or scaly, I didn't have a favorite. That was until I swung my leg over my first small, brown horse. The rest will go down in history. I instantly fell in love with these big creatures. It was their beauty and grace that drew me in and made me fall in love with the sport. The relationship between rider and horse is unbreakable and steel strong that nothing can separate them. After my first pony ride I begged my mom to sign me up for lessons. However growing up in a family that was not centered around horses and were not in good financial support, my mom was weary about my pleas. This made me wish for it even more, a fact about me, when I wanted something, I didn't stop until I had it in my grip. Eventually, my family was able to afford those one hour a week lessons where I would fall deeply in love with many different aspects of riding whether it be barrel racing, pole bending, roping, reining, working cow horse, and even english. Over the summers I would participate in summer camps that revolved around riding and also informational classes in between riding sessions. We learned about different tack options, as well as learning the health and anatomy of horses. Not only was I completely devoted and in love with horses, but I started to love anatomy and health aspects of horses. Anatomy allowed my brain to remember muscles and bones which was very exciting and interesting to learn. During those summers spending time with various horses and learning about health and anatomy made me realize what my calling in life was, I was going to become an equine veterinarian. I knew the moment after our first anatomy class that I wanted to be an equine vet that not only combined my love for horses, but also my love for medicine and health. After my decision was made and I entered the big world of high school I started to prepare for my career. I started taking all of the animal science classes that my school offered which led me to complete my pathway in those classes which then certified me as being career ready. I then took an anatomy class my junior year where I learned about diseases, muscles, and bones, then we later dissected a cat which helped prepare me for my future field and helped introduce me to medical terms. I am now working at an animal hospital where I can get accustomed to a vets office surroundings while also gaining my hours required for vet school. Since my first pony ride I have loved horses and aspired to ride horses for the rest of my life. Horses have taught me what determination, responsibly, and patience is and are essential qualities that make not only outstanding horsemen, but also future veterinarians as well. I hope to become both as my time in college prepares me for both my career in medicine and professionally riding as well.