THE NEXT RIDE: Makayla Clegg

May 3, 2017

With the 2016-17 season now complete, it’s time for the Gamecocks to bid farewell to nine incredible seniors who have each impacted the Carolina program in their own special way. But for these nine women, the end of their collegiate careers marks the beginning of a new journey, where each of them will make their mark on the world. GamecocksOnline.com is proud to present The Next Ride, spotlighting each senior’s time at Carolina and looking ahead to the next chapter of their lives. Today’s Q&A features Makayla Clegg.

Graduation Date, Degree, Major

May 5, 2017 with a B.A. in Public Health

What was your hardest class at Carolina?

Political Science

How did you pick your major?

I wanted a major that would help prepare me to begin a therapeutic riding and wellness program of my own.

How did the Carolina Equestrian family help you during your academic career?

The support of my teammates and roomies through hard times and classes. The access to tutors, advisors and mentors have been a large factor in my success at USC. The team also taught me how to work hard for something I love and to never give up on something that was worth having.

How did the Carolina Equestrian family help with your post-college career?

It helped build my knowledge of riding and horses as well as helped me connect with people to help me in the future. Through the team, I was also introduced to a speech pathologist in Blythewood that I was able to mentor with in order to build my knowledge in creating my own program.

What competition will you remember most from your time as a Carolina Equestrian student-athlete?

The meet I will remember the most is when we hosted SECs and we thought we had lost to UGA, but then we were later told we had won.

What’s the one phrase you’ll remember most from your coaches?

“Ride smart, and have fun.” – Coach Sorrel

“I’m not giving up my shot!!!” – Coach Major

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

I plan to work at Camp Twin Lakes over the summer with a therapeutic riding instructor to become certified. During that time, I will look for another public health job while I create my own organization on my farm.

What’s your advice for young riders interested in joining the Carolina Equestrian program?

You will work harder than you ever thought you could during your four years here, but in the end, it will all be worth it. You will make unforgettable memories and build relationships that last a lifetime. There is no equestrian family like the Gamecocks family!