Therapeutic riding instructor/trainer
Brandon Harrison ’23
Harrison turned an internship he did during his time at Randolph into a full-time position.
The biology major is working as a therapeutic riding instructor and trainer at Brook Hill Farm in Bedford County.
When he arrived at Randolph, Harrison had plans to become a veterinarian. But he changed course after taking an equine studies class with biology professor Amanda Rumore and Jo Ann Miller, who owns Brook Hill.
His coursework included a therapeutic riding class at the farm, which provides rehabilitation services and a safe haven for unwanted horses, along with community riding programs for veterans, seniors, and those with disabilities.
“Therapeutic riding offers many mental and physical benefits,” he said. “People who can’t walk can ride a horse and exercise muscles that are otherwise not used on a day-to-day basis. Horses are also mirrors of our emotions. You can’t have a bad day and expect your horse to have a good one.”
He credits his time behind the Red Brick Wall with helping him stay true to himself while stepping outside of his comfort zone.
“If it wasn’t for Randolph, I don’t believe I would have found a career path I enjoy and love,” he said. “Being here has encouraged me in all aspects of my life and allowed me to explore opportunities I couldn’t have gotten anywhere else.”
