From Participant to Barn Supervisor: Tanya’s Journey at the UC Davis Equestrian Center

Tanya’s path at the UC Davis Equestrian Center began not behind the scenes, but in the saddle. What started as a participant in lessons grew into a long-term journey through multiple roles, ultimately leading her to her current position as Barn Supervisor and Riding Instructor. Today, she helps oversee the care of more than 80 horses while continuing to contribute to the welcoming, hands-on environment that first drew her in.

Tanya’s connection to horses didn’t begin in the typical way many people in the community experience. Having started riding abroad in India, she arrived without the local network many peers already had. Instead, she built her foundation step by step—first as a lesson participant, then as a stall cleaner, and eventually into leadership roles within the barn. Along the way, she developed a strong support system within the equestrian community that continues to shape her experience today.

One of the most rewarding aspects of Tanya’s role is the relationships she has formed through the Equestrian Center. “The connections I’ve made in the horse industry have been everything,” she shared. From students to staff to the horses themselves, those relationships have been central to her growth. She credits the supportive environment at UC Davis Campus Recreation for helping her build both confidence and community, noting that many of her closest friendships today began at the barn.

For students considering a similar role, Tanya emphasizes the importance of saying yes to opportunities. “Take all of the opportunities you can—people will throw things at you to learn, so say yes,” she advises. That willingness to step into new responsibilities led her from an entry-level participant role into multiple positions of leadership.

While many might assume barn supervision is a highly structured role with constant oversight, Tanya notes that there is also a significant level of independence. At times, one person may be responsible for the health and care of the entire facility. Despite that responsibility, she highlights the collaborative nature of the team, explaining that staff are always ready to step in and support one another, literally putting out fires when needed 

Tanya also emphasizes the development of transferable skills, particularly in communication and customer service. Early in her role, she found herself becoming one of the first points of contact for new participants, helping her grow more comfortable engaging with others and stepping outside of her comfort zone. That confidence, she says, has carried into both her professional and academic life.

Of course, the role has not been without its challenges. Learning horse husbandry—especially understanding how to treat wounds, administer medication, and recognize subtle changes in horse behavior—required time and careful attention. Horses, she notes, can hide health issues well, making observation a critical skill. Over time, she learned to slow down, watch closely, and trust what small changes might indicate.

Despite the responsibilities, Tanya finds the greatest joy in the community surrounding the Equestrian Center. She values the opportunity to both volunteer her time and continue developing her own riding skills. Some of her most memorable experiences come from informal group rides with fellow staff. These moments, she says, reflect what makes the environment so special: a space where coworkers become friends, and where both people and horses can enjoy time together in a relaxed setting.

For Tanya, the UC Davis Equestrian Center is more than a workplace. It is a place of growth, connection, and discovery—one that has shaped her journey from a newcomer to a leader, and continues to influence her path forward in equine care and beyond.