For Isa Jensen, horses have always been part of the picture. Her mom grew up riding, and by age seven, Isa found herself following in her footsteps. “I started riding because my mom grew up riding,” she says. “She had a couple ponies when she was younger, and I was super interested in being around them when I was little.”

At first, Isa loved being around horses more than actually riding them, so much so that she took a short break when she was eight. “I actually didn’t like riding at first,” she admits with a laugh. “I just liked being around the horses.” But by age nine, she was back in the saddle and this time for good.

From Hunters to Jumpers

Over the years, Isa has developed a strong foundation in English riding, competing across hunters, jumpers, and equitation. During her junior years, she focused on the hunters and equitation, competing in classes from the 3’ THIS medals to the Medal, Maclay, and WIHS. More recently, she’s been branching into the jumper ring and loving the challenge. “I was able to compete in a 1.15m class on a lease horse and had a great time!” she says. “If I wasn’t riding English, I would absolutely love to try Western pleasure someday.”

The Magic of the Equestrian Community

When it comes to what she loves most about the sport, Isa doesn’t hesitate — it’s the people. “One of my absolute favorite things about the equestrian community, especially the hunter-jumper world, is how everyone comes together for finals season,” she says. “There’s such a magical feeling that time of year. I love being able to see my long-distance friends and cheer them on in person. Competing in finals truly is a group effort, and I love seeing everyone support each other.”

Meet Happy Boy

At home, Isa’s heart belongs to Happy Boy, her 13-year-old 17hh chestnut KWPN gelding. “We imported him in 2020 for me to do the big eq on — he was actually my Christmas gift that year,” she says. “I don’t think I’ve ever loved anything or anyone more.”

Happy Boy, affectionately known as “Happy,” has a big, silly personality and a few quirky preferences, like his love of peeled bananas and his favorite person (Isa’s mom!). “He’s the most reliable horse I’ve ever ridden, and I truly wouldn’t be the rider I am today without him.”

Balancing College, Riding, and an Internship

In addition to being a dedicated rider and student at Skidmore College, Isa has also been an intern at StableSecretary since May 2025. Her work is largely project-based, which allows her to balance her internship with her busy college schedule. “Typically, my work is online, and I’m able to set my own hours, which has been a blessing,” she explains. Her days are full, from morning gym sessions to classes, IHSA practices, and evenings spent working on school and internship projects.

Inside Isa’s Work with StableSecretary

Isa’s projects for StableSecretary include researching equine-related organizations, identifying barn managers or representatives, and reaching out to introduce them to StableSecretary’s software. She even had the chance to help in person at HITS Marshall & Sterling Finals, supporting the team on-site during the event.

Having worked in the horse industry for nearly six years as a working student and groom, Isa knows firsthand how challenging it can be to stay organized. “The biggest challenge I’ve noticed is that so many barns have a designated ‘junk pile’ for every important notice, bill, or schedule,” she says. “Keeping everything online in a central location like StableSecretary completely avoids that. No one has to dig through drawers or trash for last month’s shoeing bill anymore!”

Favorite StableSecretary Feature

Her favorite feature? The feed management tool. “Although it’s a smaller feature, I think it’s amazing for keeping each horse’s grain and supplements organized,” she says. “Administering medications and supplements can get complicated fast if it’s only tracked on paper. I’ve accidentally fed the wrong supplement before because my notes were saved in multiple places. With StableSecretary, it would all be in one, easy-to-find spot.”

A Future Full of Passion and Purpose

From her first pony rides to balancing college, competition, and her internship, Isa’s journey reflects both her dedication and her love for the equestrian lifestyle. Whether she’s at the barn, in class, or helping barns across the country stay organized with StableSecretary, Isa embodies the passion and professionalism that make this community so special.