Spring 2026 graduate Kirsten Smith said her experiences at Georgia Southern University connected the Wildlife Center, Equestrian Team, and Parker College of Business. Smith, who grew up in Loganville, Georgia, was introduced to horse riding by a family member and described it as a formative experience. “Being an animal lover for as long as I could remember, I have wonderful memories of riding horses. It got me out of my comfort zone, it allowed me to discover a new side of myself,” she recalled.
Smith said she did not always see herself as an athlete due to challenges with hand-eye coordination. Despite initial doubts about balancing academics and extracurricular activities at college, she decided to reach out to the Equestrian Team coaches after missing the tryout deadline at her mother’s encouragement. “I was welcomed onto the team freshman year despite the late start. Being on the team helped me find most of my friends here. I even met my roommate through the Equestrian Team. A lot of the members chose Georgia Southern because of the incredible opportunity to be part of this sport,” Smith said.
The Equestrian Team at Georgia Southern is a club sport founded in 1993 that allows riders from all skill levels to compete throughout their college careers. The team moved its base to Evermore Farm in Brooklet in 1998 and participates in competitions through the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association program.
Smith explained that Eleanor Ellis, owner and head trainer at Evermore Farm, runs multiple programs for riders starting from elementary school age that emphasize horsemanship and mentorship alongside competition opportunities for university students. “Because it’s not unusual for Georgia Southern students to be on the premises at the same time as younger riders, we act as a kind of mentor, showing children how passionate and committed Georgia Southern’s Equestrian Team can be,” Smith said.
In addition to her athletic involvement, Smith worked as a student assistant supporting Executive Director Steve Hein at the Center for Wildlife Education on campus while double majoring in business administration and accounting. She credited these experiences with developing skills related to planning and preparation.
Looking ahead, Smith plans to pursue a master’s degree in accounting online through Georgia Southern while building her career with guidance from her mother: “I am looking forward to taking on a master’s in accounting through Georgia Southern’s online program and plan on building my career alongside my supportive mom, who has had a long career in office and accounting management and inspired me to pursue a similar path.”
