2016 2016: Jesse Waidler: Combining liberal arts and military service

Year: Class of 2016
Dual major: History/French 
Program: Master's in Education
Hometown: Townshend, VT
Next steps: Doctoral study on the Balkans

An E5 sergeant in the U.S. Army, Jesse Waidler ‘16 learned French at the Defense Language Institute and began working for the Department of Defense as a linguist, translating documents and aiding with interpretations.

After his deployment to Kosovo to work on an ongoing NATO mission, Jesse transferred to UMass Dartmouth and majored in history and French. He accelerated his studies by taking six classes a semester and finished the requirements for his undergraduate degrees in January.

“It can be tiring at times, but as long as you’re physically able, you can make anything happen,” Jesse said about his busy schedule. “You have to remember that you’re working toward your goal. And if you come up short, you’ll never be satisfied.”

Despite his busy schedule, Jesse read his poetry during the Foreign Language Department’s Art Nights and worked with Dartmouth Cable TV and the university to produce a documentary on Stage Coach Lines.

Studying history leads to appreciating culture

A transfer student, Jesse wanted to pursue degrees in history, French, and education at a state university. "I transferred to UMass Dartmouth because of the programs the university offers," he said. "It was the best fit for me to accomplish my goals."

Jesse decided to study history because it's the "foundation of humanity" and credits his history classes for opening his mind and allowing him to appreciate where he travels. 

"Visiting and living in different countries, I realized that through understanding history, barriers and boundaries begin to disappear, and we can begin to understand how every culture has developed.

I transferred to UMass Dartmouth because of the programs the university offers. It was the best fit for me to accomplish my goals.

Goal of becoming a university professor

After graduating with his undergraduate degrees, Jesse enrolled in the Master of Arts in Teaching program at UMassD and pursued his career with the army.

"Thanks to my degrees and prior skills, I acquired a full-time position as an analyst," he said.

Once he graduates from the education program, Jesse plans to begin doctoral studies on the Balkans. He hopes to become a university professor.

Tricia Breton and Marissa Matton contributed to this spotlight.

More information

• History
• French