THE NEXT RIDE: Bridgett White
With the 2018-19 season officially complete, it is time for Carolina to bid farewell to eight seniors, all of whom impacted the Gamecocks’ program in their own way. The end of their collegiate careers marks the beginning of a new journey, filled with countless opportunities. The Next Ride features will spotlight the seniors and their time at South Carolina. Forever to Thee.
Next up: Bridgett White. White joined Carolina from Canal Winchester, Ohio. She was a four-year starter from the Gamecocks, competing in Reining. This season, White ended on a five-ride win streak, including four victories at the NCEA Championships and one at the SEC Championship.
Graduation Date, Degree, Major(s):
May 11, 2019, BA in Journalism and Mass Communications
What was your hardest class at Carolina?
Journalism 303: Law and Ethics of Mass Communication
How did you pick your major?
I didn’t start out in mass communication initially. I started with exercise science and then switched to broadcast journalism and ended with mass communication, which is just broader, and I absolutely loved it, so I stuck with it.
How did the Carolina Equestrian family help you during your academic career?
The Carolina Equestrian family supported me so much during my academic career. My grades always came first and if I was ever struggling, they were there to do anything and everything to help me get back to succeeding in the classroom.
How did the Carolina Equestrian family help with your post-college career?
The Carolina Equestrian family provided me with endless opportunities to prepare me for my post-college career. The team itself has taught me so much about who I am and how to work with others that I feel prepared to work with others and be a leader in any career setting.
What competition will you remember most from your time as a Carolina Equestrian student-athlete?
I feel like I’ll remember this past National Championship the most. I won my points and we made it to the quarterfinals in reining. We didn’t get the overall outcome we wanted, but I loved spending that last meet with my team. I cherished every minute with them and every last ride wearing Garnet and Black.
What’s the one phrase you’ll remember most from Coach Major/Terebesi/Sorrel?
Coach Sorrel used to always say, “Ride smart, have fun,” before I would go into the ring. I loved that because she reminded me to go do my best, but not to forget the fun in doing what I love to do. I was a such a great, quick reminder.
What do you plan on doing after graduation?
I have had a few different opportunities come up since graduation, but I’m still deciding on what path I’ll take!
What’s your advice for young riders interested in joining the Carolina Equestrian program?
My advice for young riders interested in joining the Carolina Equestrian program is to absolutely DO IT! It was some of the best years of my life. You will never regret becoming a part of the Gamecock family and you will leave with just that, another family.
