"After meeting Paul and watching him train, along with reading his book, 'Dressage for the 21st Century' and riding in his clinics in my home state, I knew that I had met one of the few dressage trainers alive in the world today who could teach me about collection. My internship with Paul Belasik has helped me to understand what riders such as Pignatelli, Pluvinel, Gueriniere and Podhajsky have known about collection."

Pam Larson

“The word that always comes to mind when I try to describe the year is “thorough.” I received a solid background in history, theory, national styles, past and current masters, modern competition and of course, technique, technique, technique. No stone was left unturned when it came to my understanding and developing a correct seat and hands that will serve me for years and levels to come. I would not describe the year as easy, but I will tell you that it was inspiring, challenging and ultimately, confidence building.”

Rose Caslar

“Paul has immense talent in finding a way to get his point across, explaining not only what to do but HOW to do it. The most fulfilling thing is that in my time at The Pennsylvania Riding Academy I started to see the bigger picture when it comes to Dressage…I couldn't be more content knowing that I have the guidance of a master like Paul.”

Andrea Meoak

"During my internship, I had a great opportunity to see how a well-run, successful farm operates…I learned a great deal about real-world, hands-on horse care and management throughout my internship. From equine first-aid to doing a running braid, I acquired practical skills which continue to help me care for my own horse…My weekly lessons with Paul helped me to improve my riding position and to become a more correct and effective rider…Throughout my internship, I gained valuable knowledge, experience, and received excellent training. Did I work hard during my internship? Yes. Was it worth it? Definitely."

Nicole Lambert

“Whether they be horse or human, Paul has an uncanny ability to make each of his students perform to the best of their ability: somehow he seemed to know exactly what I could be capable of and never ceased to encourage me to push myself further and further. He had high expectations, and I strived to meet them…I left the academy when August rolled around as a completely different rider—a stronger, confident, and much more educated one.”

Camille Garceau

“This internship program represents one of the most rewarding and enriching periods in my life…Over the course of two years, I was carefully guided through a comprehensive academic and applied study of dressage. Weekly reading and research gave way to greater insight with respect to the validity, relevancy, and historical context of important equestrian literature. Even further, daily riding sessions allowed for the necessary time in the saddle where theory could be explored and advancements in technique could be made…Those who "show up and work hard”, will receive a transformational education they will cherish for the rest of their life.”

Ryan Hopkins

"It was the first time I got the feeling that somebody really wanted to invest in me as a classical rider, both practical and theoretical…This is in my opinion an internship for the truly dedicated and interested Classical rider."

Jorunn Buer