Summer’s Here

With the official start of summer (and the summer show season upon us), it’s that typical time when students trade school bells for calls to the back barn and enjoy the longer days ahead. Whether you’re polishing your boots for the next big class or kicking off your college search, there’s plenty to be excited about. (I know I am!)

June 15, of course, marked the NCAA contact date for Division I and II programs, a milestone that often feels like a buzzer going off for student-athletes.

But take a deep breath - while this date certainly matters for varsity hopefuls, it's far from the only path to riding in college (or even for riding on an NCEA team). The recruiting path for those who opt in is often longer and more complex than you expect it to be - and sometimes you hop on the path only to decide part way down that you don’t want to be on it after all. There’s no wrong decision to make as long as you choose the best option for yourself.

In addition to recruiting information, this month I’m also sharing a few recent news items and feel-good stories from the world of higher ed - because it’s not all doom and gloom out there, despite what the headlines sometimes say.

For now, let’s soak up the sunshine, celebrate our wins (both in the arena and beyond), and remember that, whether you're jumping fences or exploring majors, summer is yours for the taking.