Equine entrepreneur blends passion with pursuit of degree at USCA

“USCA is helping me achieve my goals by teaching me everyday skills such as communicating professionally and managing money.” 

She’s been riding horses since she was 7, and her love of horses, the desire to be in horse country and the hope of launching a career in the horse industry brought the Charleston native to Aiken, specifically USCA.

“Nobody in my family rode, but one day I was at a farm and saw a horse, and it’s been a huge part of my life ever since,” said Mellie Exline, USCA ’29.

“I chose USCA because of its large horse community and the opportunities it offers to learn and meet other people.”

Once she got here, the marketing major wasted no time working toward her dream job in the equine industry – whether that’s as a sales representative, trainer or a full-time horse clipper.

Clipping horses helps keep their coats managed. It’s a skill in demand in Aiken and other horse communities and one Exline needed for her own horse. This prompted Exline to form her business, Clipped by Mellie. She travels to farms and equestrian centers to clip horses and feed them when their owners are traveling.

“What inspired me most to start my own business was my own horse and the people around me,” Exline said.

“I originally learned to clip to save money because my horse needed to be clipped three to four times a year, which adds up quickly. With the support and opportunities given by the people around me, I slowly started to gain clients and grow my business.”

She said that clipping is a seasonal gig. During the summer, she may only clip five or six horses. Not having a steady income is one of the biggest challenges she faces as a small business owner.

“USCA professors and the resources here have helped me develop skills in planning and budgeting, especially when it comes to managing expenses,” Exline said.

“USCA is helping me achieve my goals by teaching me everyday skills such as communicating professionally and managing money.” 

In addition to business and marketing classes in the School of Business Administration, USCA offers several online courses for entrepreneurs like Exline. The university also offers equine-related courses such as the Preparation for Competition course, which includes a segment on clipping.

While she may face some challenges and has a lot to learn about small business ownership, Exline said the experience is worth the payoff.

“The opportunities that come from it are my favorite part. I’ve met so many people and worked with all kinds of horses, which has really helped me grow in the community,” she said.

“My advice to others would be to keep trying and work hard, putting in time and practice truly makes a difference, and if you’re passionate about something, success will come with time.”

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Editor’s note:  According to the U.S. State Department, November is National Entrepreneurship Month, “a time to celebrate the entrepreneurs who serve their communities and bolster the American economy.” This story is one in the “Making Our Way” series, celebrating USCA entrepreneurs.

Making our way: USCA fosters students’ entrepreneurial spirit

Making our way: Alumna found voice, confidence passion at USCA

For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at news@usca.edu.