Honor Society® member
Melissa Simmons
Assistant Equine Trainer at Van Hargis Horsemanship of Victoria, Texas Colt Starting and Training: Taught young horses the basic fundamentals and techniques beginning with groundwork up into the saddle. Horsemanship: As I was teaching the horse, Mr. Hargis was teaching and coaching me the fundamentals of horsemanship. Care and maintenance of all horses and livestock, including ranch management, maintenance, and lawncare.
- Tarleton State University
- Criminal Justice
- Class of 2027
- Lockhart, Texas
Member since December 2022
About
I am in my third year of undergraduate studies in criminal justice at Tarleton State University. Since my return to Tarleton after a 12-year absence, I have been motivated by the challenges and opportunities that come with being a student once again. As I navigate this new phase in my life, perseverance and commitment to my education will serve as my compass. This is a new beginning, but with the benefit of life experience and a more defined sense of purpose. I am prepared for the path ahead, as I am responsible for my own success, and it is never too late to pursue my aspirations.
Education
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Tarleton State University
Criminal Justice
2022 – Present
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Tarleton State University
Criminal Justice
2009 – 2010
Honors and awards
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Bastrop High School Graduate with High Honors
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Presidential Scholarship Recipient Fall 2009
Awarded scholarship for first year attending Tarleton State University based on high school academic performance.
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Dean's List Summer 2022
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President's List Fall 2022
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Roger & Ruth Turney Scholarship Recipient 2023-2024
Awarded to a non-traditional student, show financial need, and maintain good standing with the university.
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President's List Spring 2023
Goals and interests
- Career goal
My professional goal is to work for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department as a game warden. I am passionate about wildlife conservation and protecting our natural resources. Becoming a game warden will allow me to combine my love for the outdoors with my desire to serve and protect my community. I am committed to working hard, maintaining my concentration, achieving my objectives, and doing so with patience.
- Graduate school interests
Tarleton State University Graduate Studies Master of Criminal Justice
- Outside the classroom
I am very passionate about horses and rodeo. I started riding at the age of 3 and competing at the age of 5. I am an all-around competitor in multiple events such as barrel racing, team roping, and breakaway roping. I enjoy teaching the young riders about safety precautions and helping them improve their riding skills. More importantly, my education is my number one priority and I embrace every learning opportunity.
Experience
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Assistant Equine Trainer
Van Hargis Horsemanship of Victoria, Texas Colt Starting and Training: Taught young horses the basic fundamentals and techniques beginning with groundwork up into the saddle. Horsemanship: As I was teaching the horse, Mr. Hargis was teaching and coaching me the fundamentals of horsemanship. Care and maintenance of all horses and livestock, including ranch management, maintenance, and lawncare.
May 2015 – Jul 2017
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Top Hand Internship
Van Hargis Horsemanship in Victoria, Texas Internship worked alongside Mr. Hargis learning the essentials of horsemanship, colt starting, and training.
Aug 2014 – Nov 2014
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Equine Trainer and Riding Instructor
MD Horsemanship Trainer: Currently train my personal horses and a rodeo competitor in barrel racing, breakaway roping, and pursuing women's tie-down calf roping. Instructor: I educate youth kids the importance of safety when handling horses, as well as provide riding lessons to help them improve for both rider and horse. I also attend their events to coach, encourage, and support.
May 2010 – Dec 2023
Volunteering
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Fishing Guide and Educator - 2022
Texas Parks and Wildlife Program
Sep 2022 – May 2023
Languages
- English (US) Advanced
Additional information
Organizations
