Laura (Baldine) Reist has goals and dreams.  Working towards these goals brought her to the English Equestrian Studies at The University of Findlay.  Laura pursued a dual major here at UF, English Equestrian Studies (Hunter/Jumper emphasis) and Equine Business Management.  For two semesters she also majored in Education.  Laura graduated in May of 2007.   

While attending UF, Laura competed on the IHSA Hunt Seat Team.  She was on the varsity team for all four years.  During her junior year, she finished third in Intermediate Individual Fences at IHSA Nationals.  Senior year, Laura finished third in Open Team Fences at Nationals and the team was Reserve National Champions.   

Laura’s favorite memories of her time at UF include early morning IHSA practices with her best friends and the countless hours spent out at the barn.  She remains close with her instructors and has had Michelle Arnold and Sandra McCarthy come to her training facility to conduct clinics.  Laura remains best friends with Katie Johnston who now is an Equine Admissions Counselor at UF.  

In February of 2007 (shortly before graduation), Laura’s family purchased a farm in Morris, IL which is called Bella Rose Farm. Another of Laura's goals was achieved.  She is the trainer and professional rider at Bella Rose Farm.  She is also the trainer and rider at a farm in Minooka, IL called Lane's End farm and has been there for 3 1/2 years.  Between the two farms, she has a very large show team that travels around Northern Illinois, showing the NIHJA (Northern Illinois Hunter Jumper Association) and the USEF "A" rated shows.  Laura brought four of her young students to the Young Riders’ Clinic at UF in June of 2010.  They were so thrilled to see where she had gone to college.   

In September of 2009, Laura married Ben Reist (who also attended The University of Findlay).  With Ben and her parents by her side, the family is building a wonderful equestrian facility.  Laura is looking forward to expanding their operation by adding 10 more stalls and a new 100 x 200  indoor arena.   

When asked what advice she would give high school students that are considering a career in the equine industry, Laura stated, “If you truly want a career in the equine industry, hands down The University of Findlay should be a consideration. The hands on experience and individual attention will help you to be successful in this business.  To be a part of the equine industry, you have to be willing to work extremely hard, be accepting of help from your instructors, and make many contacts in the industry.  It is important to find role models that you can trust and rely on for help when needed.  Having been to UF, I now have many role models that I can call whenever I need to.  I also have created many great contacts throughout the country while attending UF.  If I had to go back and do it all over again, I would most definitely go through UF's Equestrian Program again.  I feel as though it gave me the skill set and knowledge base to be as successful as I can be in the equine industry.”