Get to know our Animal Science faculty, staff and graduate students in our Spotlight feature.
This week meet, Delaney Rostad, Graduate Teaching Assistant and University of Tennessee Equestrian Team Coach
What is the most exciting part of your job?
The most exciting part of my job is seeing my riders be successful in the show arena. It is extremely rewarding to watch riders grow and improve in their lessons then watch them continue to apply in the show pen.
Who inspires you?
I am inspired by a lot of people. So many people that I grew up in the equine industry with like Roger and Sandra Elder and my past coach Anne Brzezicki. People that I look up to are those that were able to be successful just due to their own tenacity and determination and then they were willing to share their accomplishments with me.
What is something you find challenging about your work?
As a coach, one of the most challenging aspects is finding different ways to teach riders. Everyone has a unique learning style and finding that style that will allow that rider to be the most successful can be a challenge at times!
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a kid, I knew I always wanted to work with animals. I went through phases of wanting to be a vet to even wanting to run a doggy day care. So now that I am working with horses everyday I am not that far off my original plan.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years I hope to have my own business teaching riding lessons, training horses, and showing at the top level.
Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?
My hidden talent is that I am quite the power walker. I’m pretty sure I can walk faster than I can run.
What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?
On the weekends during football season, you can always find me watching a game. Titan Up!
Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
I am mostly an introvert. I’m good with keeping to myself and a good awkward silence never hurt anyone! I don’t mind speaking up though. All my years of horse judging and teaching riding lessons have definitely helped with that.