For Samantha (Sam) Ward, a junior in BYU's experience design and management program, horses are more than just a hobby. It's a journey of personal healing and service to others.
Growing up in a family with deep BYU roots, Ward's path to the university seemed almost inevitable. With parents who met on campus and sisters who previously attended BYU, she always knew Provo would be her academic home, but her story goes far beyond family tradition.
Ward's connection to horses started in third grade as a form of therapy for her struggles with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Horseback riding began as her form of PE class and therapy but quickly became much more.
"I started horseback riding as a form of therapy in third grade. I struggled with OCD, so it was my PE class for a little bit and also my therapy," Ward said. "Eventually, it just became something that I did as often as I could."
Ward said it really helped her through a lot of stuff.
Now, Ward has turned that personal experience into a professional mission.
Working at a local barn, she teaches horseback riding lessons to students ranging from toddlers to adults, with a special focus on individuals facing mental health challenges and learning disabilities.
"A lot of my students have learning disabilities or other mental health issues that they're dealing with," Ward explained. "They come to horseback riding because they’re there to heal from stuff or just have some time to find peace and be around horses."
She shared a story about a young student who participated in a holiday outreach program that provided free monthly lessons for families in need.
"It was just so cool to see her be able to connect with the horses and be truly happy there," Ward said.
Ward also has another student who's pretty similar to her, also struggling with OCD, and comes to the barn to help with that process.
"It’s really cool to see how it can help everyone, not just me," Ward said.
Ward's academic path at BYU's experience design and management program is the perfect fit for her passion.
After exploring different majors, she found a program that lets her combine business knowledge with therapeutic recreational design.
"The program is about more than just business," Ward said. "It's about designing experiences that help people grow spiritually, physically, intellectually and socially."
Her ultimate goal is to open a therapeutic horseback riding facility that offers holistic healing experiences.
BYU's unique educational approach, which emphasizes both secular knowledge and spiritual development, resonates deeply with Ward. She sees parallels between the university's philosophy and her approach to horseback riding, both focusing on personal growth and connection.
"It's interesting that BYU is really focused on both education and the spiritual side of things," Ward said. "Horseback riding is kind of the same way. We focus on skills to become a better rider, but there's also so much about connection, teamwork and working as a unit to accomplish something great."
She also said you can't really have one without the other.
"The things my students learn in horseback riding lessons, they can apply in other areas of their lives too, like standing up for others, working together, and growing in confidence," Ward said.
Ward also values the opportunity to integrate her faith into her passion for horses.
"I love that I get to use something I'm passionate about and that I've learned academically, and use it to help other people, other children of God," Ward said. "It’s so cool that BYU has this degree that I can use for my future. I want to help people, and at the same time, I get to work with horses in the sunshine. It’s great."
Beyond her academic and equestrian pursuits, Ward sees herself as an ambassador for BYU.
When parents or community members ask about her studies, she’s always excited to share how her education is helping her create meaningful experiences for others.
"It's about using my skills to bless the lives of other children of God," Ward said, reflecting the university's mission of service to others.
Ward's dedication extends to her academic work, where the discipline she’s learned from horseback riding helps her excel in teamwork and project management. Her commitment to excellence and collaboration makes her a valued member of the BYU community.
As she looks toward graduation, Ward represents a new generation of students who are reimagining traditional career paths.
By combining therapeutic intervention, business strategy and personal passion, she embodies BYU's commitment to innovative, purpose-driven education.