I lace up my riding boots and zip up my jeans. I throw on a Bob Marley t-shirt and head out the door after grabbing a bite to eat. Twenty minutes later I arrive at the barn, and am greeted by Joan, the head coordinator with fiery red hair and a thick New York accent. As she helps a rider adjust her helmet she tells me to grab Princessa’s reins and prepare to lead a lesson.

       Los Angeles harbors countless opportunities not available in most places. One such opportunity that has changed my life is the Dream Catcher Therapeutic Riding organization. This incredible program strengthened my already existent interest in the field of psychology. The lessons are not meant only to help the children ride; they are a form of therapy. The kids blossom, and develop a beautiful bond with the horse they ride as they go through the weekly lessons. Although some cannot communicate verbally, they still laugh and smile and misbehave just like any other able bodied child. While on their horse, the rider feels invincible. Their parents have been told by doctor after doctor what their child will never be able to do, but during the thirty minute lesson they watch their child with immense pride.

       Psychology and social work are majors that would have only been a passing thought if Dream Catcher did not exist. Psychology is a science that has so many parts not yet discovered, while social work would allow me to make a difference in people’s lives, which is also very important. Both fields are so full of promise and opportunity.  Dream Catcher inspired me to take AP Psychology. This class was a great introduction to so many fields of psychology I did not know about. I quickly realized that while biopsychology and the science aspect were interesting, I connected most with the field of cognitive psychology. Without volunteering at the therapeutic riding center, I do not know what path I would be on.