High Impact Practices Student Showcase Spring 2026

Lessons From the Barn: A Service Learning Journal

Lessons From the Barn: A Service Learning Journal

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Course Code

LDR

Course Number

3950

Faculty/Instructor

Virginia Koch

Faculty/Instructor Email

Virgina.koch@ucf.edu

About the Author

  

Hello! My name is Morgan, and I am a sophomore here at UCF. I am originally from Tampa, FL. I am a biology major on the Pre-Vet track with a minor in environmental studies. I am President of the LEAD Scholars Academy Student Association, and I also work part-time as a veterinary assistant at Banfield Pet Hospital. I have a cat named Maverick who I enjoy spending time. When I am not busy I like being outdoors and spending time with friends and family. My passion has always been helping out animals and people in my local community, which is why I am so excited to share with you the work I have done throughout the semester. When I graduate, I want to attend the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, and specialize in emergency animal medicine.  

I would like to thank the staff of Freedom Ride, especially the volunteer coordinator Jane Rutter, the LEAD Scholars Academy, and my course instructor, Virginia Koch, for their guidance and suppor

Abstract, Summary, or Creative Statement

This service-learning project was completed in partnership with Freedom Ride, a nonprofit organization that provides equine-assisted services for individuals with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities. The organization’s mission is to promote independence, confidence, and overall well-being through accessible therapeutic programs.

During my 40 hours of service, I assisted with horse care, supported riders during lessons, and helped maintain a safe and functional environment for daily operations. These responsibilities contributed to efficient program delivery and allowed instructors to focus on individualized rider support.

Freedom Ride serves over 100 riders weekly and relies on volunteer support to sustain its programs, providing participants with physical, emotional, and social benefits through structured therapeutic activities.

Keywords

Equine Therapy; Equine; Service Learning; Physical Therapy; Service Learning; Leadership Development ;Social Change Model; Disability Awareness; Community Engagement; Volunteerism; Adaptive Leadership; Collaboration ;Accessibility; Civic Responsibility; Animal-Assisted Therapy; Nonprofit Work; Experiential Learning; Servant Leadership

Lessons From the Barn: A Service Learning Journal


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