Diamond Oaks expanded my horizons,” reflected Caryn Hoerst, 2002 alumni of Harrison HS and Diamond Oaks equine science and management program.  Caryn knew all about farming, growing up on her family’s farm on the west side.  Yet, despite all of her experience with sheep, cattle, hogs, and grain, Caryn didn’t know much about horses.  So when the opportunity presented itself in her junior year of high school, she jumped at the chance to go to Diamond Oaks.  “The teachers at Diamond Oaks like Mr. Peters were on a different level,” commented Caryn.  “They saw your strengths and built upon them.”  Caryn, currently enrolled at the Ohio State University, pursuing her Bachelors of Science in Agricultural Education, has always been at the top of her class.  Upon high school graduation, Caryn earned the Ohio Board of Regents 4-year scholarship.  During college she has earned an additional scholarship through the College of Agriculture.  Caryn is currently president of the Agricultural Education Society and secretary of the Agricultural College Recognition committee.  Upon graduation in spring of 2006, she plans to become a high school agriculture teacher—a path she knows was influenced by her instructors at Diamond Oaks.