It's time to meet the Auburn equestrian freshman class as we bring you Q&As with the newcomers. We're getting to know another solid Western rider in Madison Parduhn!
Hometown: Edmond, Okla.
Major: Law & Justice
Prior to Auburn: 2018 AQHA Youth World Reserve Champion Trail … 2018 NSBA World Youth Trail finalist … Multiple Top 10 Congress finishes.
Q: Why did you chose Auburn?
A: I chose Auburn because I wanted to be in a hometown feel. Since I'm so far away from home, I wanted to feel like I am just at home which I get! Academics is a huge part of school and we get so much help with balancing schedules. Also, having a group of amazing girls who support you was a big thing for me as well. Overall, it was the best fit for me academically and athletically!
How long have you been riding and what was the name of your first pony?
I have been riding since I was 6 years old. The first horse I had was named Topper.
What is your favorite thing about your hometown that you wish everyone knew?
Everyone thinks of Oklahoma as a boring state, but there are lots of fun things to do in Midtown and Downtown OKC. There are a lot of great restaurants and activities. The sunsets are beautiful in Oklahoma. But my favorite thing about being in Oklahoma is being with my family and friends!
What is your favorite thing about riding Western?
I started out actually doing English riding, but the connection with you and your horse in Western is amazing. Patterns have always been a favorite thing of mine so showing off the connection with you and your horse while doing a pattern makes it enjoyable. I always look forward to getting on and riding every day, especially here at Auburn. Riding a new horse every day is a learning experience of a lifetime.
What is your favorite homecooked meal?
I love this question! Me and my mom love to cook beef stroganoff together so that might be one of my favorites. I also like the Gigi Hadid pasta recipe as well!
If you're stranded on a deserted island, what three teammates do you bring with and why?
This is a very tough question because I love everyone on the team. I would probably choose Helen Lohr, Gracie Sullivan, and Grace Pearson, because my chances of survival would be high. They are good at working through tough things and most likely know how to read a map, assuming we do not have cell service.
If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be and why?
Turks and Caicos or Santorini, Greece. I've been to Turks before, and I love being at the beach where it's warm and sunny. I've never been to Santorini, but it is on my bucket list. Santorini has a lot of sightseeing opportunities along with a beach and beautiful views and sunsets.
What is your favorite Auburn tradition?
Rolling Toomer's Corner after big wins!
What is your major and what do you plan on doing with it?
I am currently in the College of Liberal Arts, with major of Law and Justice. I plan on being a medical malpractice attorney. I have always wanted to be some sort of lawyer so the type of law may change. I have always loved medicine, but my strong skills are reading, writing, and rationalizing. Adding in a little bit of medical points into my future would add more enjoyment for me and my job. I want a job that I can be successful in while having fun.
What has been your favorite class so far at Auburn? Why did you enjoy it so much?
I have had three favorite classes so far: Diverse Populations, English Composition 1, and Sociology. I will be taking public speaking next semester as well and I am ecstatic for that class to come. Like I said previously, I enjoy reading, writing, and rationalizing and all these classes suit me perfectly.
How would your friends and family describe you in three words?
Confident, compassionate, and silly
How have you been able to balance equestrian, school and sorority life?
So far, I have been able to manage both. Most sororities have not been able to do much right now because of COVID. We already get help with balancing workouts, practice, and class. If you can stay motivated, you can absolutely handle it! Most sororities are very understanding that I have school and athletics to keep up with as well, so if I am unable to attend something, they will do anything to make sure I am keeping my priorities straight!
What is your favorite holiday and why?
Fourth of July and New Year's have always been my favorites because I love fireworks! I am usually competing at a horseshow during those holidays though, so I don't get to experience it that much. I also love Christmas because I love to be with my family as much as I can.
Favorite spot on campus?
I honestly enjoy every part of campus. There is not a place I don't like. If I had to choose, I would probably say the dorms though. Most of the best memories happen here your first year.
What has been your favorite memory so far with your teammates?
We drove 25 minutes to a pumpkin patch one time, and it ended up not being open so it was a failed plan, but we ended up having bonding time together. Meets are also very fun because you get to go out and support your teammates.