AAPF Recognizes Two Outstanding Farrier School Students
The American Association of Professional Farriers (AAPF) has awarded two scholarships to attend the 2013 International Hoof-Care Summit in Cincinnati, Ohio. The two $500 scholarships were made available through the generosity of Frank K. Reilly DVM, Equine Medical & Surgical Associates of West Chester, Penn. The scholarship money can be used to pay their registration for the Summit, lodging and transportation expenses.Recipients for the scholarships include Angelica (Angie) Berwick of Waverly, West Virginia (graduate of Meredith Manor Farrier School) and Sam Zalesky CJF of Laramie, Wyoming (graduate of Heartland Horseshoeing School).
When asked why they should receive this scholarship, Angie responded:
"I believe the purpose of a Farrier is to take a raw element and turn it into something more desirable, such as a piece of coal that turns into a diamond. I relish seeing the transformation in horses that are rehabilitating from affliction such as the three-legged lame suffering from navicular, limb length disparity, and founder. I enjoy working with the horses to help make them more comfortable. At Meredith Manor, I have learned more than I ever thought existed about horses. I am an accomplished Equine Massage Therapist, have had a cumulative 4.0 grade point average, and am currently taking riding classes to further my understanding of equine structure and function as well as to further my ability to communicate with owners, riders, and other horse people extraordinaire. I also believe a good farrier is comparable to a shooting star in a night sky, few and far between. Professor Crothers taught me that there is and will always be something more to learn; therefore, I strive to learn something from every experience or opportunity that comes my way. I believe the Summit will be another such opportunity to broaden my horizon in the industry and learn from the most prominent and cultivated minds in farrier profession."
Here's Sam's response to the same question:
"I have been shoeing since I was 12 years old. I finally decided to take my education further by enrolling at HHS last year at age 21. Being at that school opened up a whole new world of farriery I never knew existed. One that is full of certification, competition, and most of all, continuing education. I became an AFA Certified Farrier in May 2011 and an AFA Certified Journeyman Farrier six months later. Every time I finish the last foot of the day, I can't wait to pick up the next one. Farriery is my passion in life and I feel so fortunate to be a part of such an amazing industry. I always strive to keep the betterment of the horse in mind, as I feel every farrier should. However, we all know that this is many times not the case with certain individuals. Many people view the CJF level as the end of the road, but I believe it's only the start. As soon as I am eligible, I plan to pursue the AWCF and hopefully one day, the FWCF. I'm very excited to see what my future in farriery has in store for me and I would graciously appreciate the opportunity to attend the IHCS."
Congratulations to Angie and Sam!