Their conversation may have been confusing, intriguing or downright boring for most. Hearing the ranges of majors and backgrounds may have left them wondering what could bring them together — but therein lies the beauty of the ISU Rodeo Club.

This is not an exclusive club for the experienced competitor.

“I had no horse experience before coming to Iowa State,” said Tamara Heim, senior in agricultural business and current club president.

“I was one of those who wanted to be involved with horses but never had the chance.”

Joining the club as a freshman drew Heim into the rodeo world. She served as an officer for a few years before being elected club president. With help from college loans and meticulous money management, she has purchased a barrel racing horse, truck and horse trailer.

For those like rodeo team captain Justin Jackson, senior in civil engineering, and 2004 ISU Rodeo Queen Jessica Marson, senior in management, joining the club was an extension into college of their life with horses.

“I showed Western Pleasure horses in high school but wasn’t able to bring any to college,” Marson said.

“The rodeo club gives me the opportunity to do horse things without having a horse here, like competing in the queen pageant.”

The club also gives its members the opportunity to ride and compete while getting to know others of the rodeo persuasion at Iowa State.

“I enjoy the rodeo club because it is a way to meet people with similar interests outside of my major,” said past rodeo queen Kristen Haase.

Haase is preparing to compete for the 2004 Miss Rodeo Iowa title along with attending class to finish her degree in apparel merchandising, design and production.

The club is hosting its annual rodeo at 7 p.m. Sept. 24 and at 1 and 7 p.m. Sept. 25. Club meetings are at 7 p.m. Mondays in 104 Kildee Hall.