More than a Degree at Franklin

From Kokomo, Indiana, Spencer Wesche graduated in 2017 and now works for Idaho Fish and Game as a conservation officer. Her days are spent patrolling on the river, climbing mountains on her ATV, and convincing moose and bears to leave town. 

“It’s like wildlife biologist mixed with police work. This time of year, we have hunting season, so my days are kind of a mix of doing patrols and then responding to calls for services,” Wesche said. “Yesterday, I had two different bear issues to deal with.” 

The variety of her work as an officer challenges Wesche’s ability to be flexible. Luckily, Franklin’s coursework equipped her to be able to handle such demands. Wesche took advantage of independent study opportunities to practice ‘for the real world.’ Looking back, Wesche sees the value in the public speaking and English classes the liberal arts degree required. 

“The thing that helped me the most at Franklin was just the opportunities to do a lot of independent research type stuff. The skills that we learned, the writing and the presenting translates well into what I’m doing right now. I remember being frustrated by having to take speech, but I would encourage folks to embrace those opportunities because you don’t know how well they prepare you.” — Spencer Wesche ’17

Wesche’s passion for conservation work began at a young age. Having family in Northern Minnesota, she spent years exploring the boundary waters. 

“I have always been interested in conservation work. My brothers and I grew up fishing and boating and doing all these things on the big lakes,” Wesche said. “I remember being a kid and being obsessed with the Steve Irwin and Jeff Corwins.” 

Receiving more than just a degree at Franklin, Wesche learned how to think like a field biologist. Unlike larger schools, Wesche was able to create a personal relationship with two of her professors – Drs. Alice Heikens and Ben O’Neal. It was because of her relationship with them, when a job opened at Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota studying common loons, she was recommended and ended up receiving the position.  

“I’m thinking of Dr. O’Neal’s and Dr. Heikens’ classes – classes you learn a lot about field work. But they also challenged you and taught you how to think like a field biologist. They knew me personally and they could make connections for me,” Wesche said. “Once you go to Franklin College, you have that family behind you for however long you are alive.”