Pre-Veterinary Student Rides Horse to Class in Amherst

Paul Yarmey, a pre-veterinary student from Pittsfield, has gained attention in Amherst for his unique mode of transportation. This summer, the 21-year-old has been riding his horse, Moon’s Choice, to classes at the University of Massachusetts. Yarmey’s daily routine includes early morning rides through the town, a practice he finds both enjoyable and practical, particularly as he attends a riding course focused on “eventing,” a competitive equestrian discipline that combines dressage, cross-country, and jumping.

Yarmey expressed his enthusiasm for horseback riding, stating, “The more I get into horses, the more I love them.” His passion for these animals has led him to decide to specialize in equine medicine as part of his veterinary studies. In addition to his riding course, Yarmey is also taking a class on training young horses. Moon’s Choice, an eight-year-old quarter horse mare, is on loan to him from local horseman Albert Moffett, who has employed Yarmey part-time for several years.

Reflecting on his journey with horses, Yarmey shared that he has been interested in riding since childhood. “When I was in first grade, I asked my parents if I could take riding lessons. They told me I had to wait until I got to fourth grade,” he recalled. As soon as he reached that age, he began mowing lawns to fund his lessons. “The more I rode, the more I liked it,” he added, emphasizing the deepening connection he has with horses over the years.

Yarmey’s academic path has been anything but linear. Initially majoring in psychiatric social work at George Williams College in Downers Grove, Illinois, he made a pivotal decision after a trip to California. While traveling through the Mohave Desert, he felt inspired to shift his focus to veterinary medicine. “I was right in the middle of the Mohave Desert and maybe I was too tired and hot, but I made up my mind to do it then,” he said. Subsequently, he transferred to UMass and is now in his second and senior year, balancing his studies with his growing passion for equestrianism.

As Yarmey continues his education, his commitment to both veterinary science and horsemanship highlights a unique intersection of interests. Riding to class has not only provided him with a practical transport solution but has also allowed him to live out his passion on a daily basis. His experience serves as an inspiring example of how education and personal interests can combine in unexpected and fulfilling ways.