I started out as a volunteer (in college) and then decided I wanted to continue to work with the horses and children. Where I am there are children with physical and mental challenges so my years of volunteering made a big difference. My degree is in Speech Pathology (helps some, but really isn't related... I had other plans until after I graduated), but I decided to go with certs in EAGALA and NAHRA. We also have another individual who has no college and has become certified with EAGALA and works full time as well... I think a lot has to do with the program and where you want to take it. There are many different programs and focuses out there.