After starting at the University of Lethbridge at 29, Jesse Clarke has embraced the fusion of traditional Blackfoot knowledge and environmental science, carving out a deeply personal and impactful path. From curating medicinal plant collections to forging meaningful connections with Elders, Jesse is taking advantage of every opportunity to grow and looks forward to a meaningful future.
My hope for the future is to have a meaningful impact on humanity's relationship with traditional Blackfoot territory through environmental conservation and remediation research.
Meet Jesse | Stoic. Resilient. Punctual.
Program: Bachelor of Science | Major: Environmental Science
Why did you choose ULethbridge?
It is close to my home, Piikani Nation.
Did you know what you wanted to study before you came to ULethbridge?
I was originally going to focus on physical geography. After meeting and working with biology instructor Jenny Burke, I decided biology couldn’t be left out of my experience here.
Please tell us about your experiential or work-integrated learning at ULethbridge.
I was granted a Chinook Summer Research Award with Michelle Hogue and Jenny Burke for the summer of 2024. Michelle and I focused on gathering traditional knowledge about medicinal and utilitarian plants native to Blackfoot territory. Jenny assisted with collecting and curating a physical collection currently housed within the University’s herbarium (LEA).
This project was a catalyst throwing me into the deep end of traditional education; it pushed me to meet with Elders and knowledge holders, creating lasting connections with great people and what seems like infinite knowledge.
I did not grow up surrounded by my Blackfoot culture, I was raised in Calgary with my Caucasian mother. At 18, I moved to Piikani and started a family; I have two kids, Paige (10) and Phoenix (8). Since then, I have slowly gotten in touch with myself through cultural experiences.
I am worlds ahead of where I was in the spring, with traditional knowledge of plants and Western science botanical identification and collection techniques. I am extremely grateful that this opportunity came about, and I feel that attending ULethbridge, and first participating in the ISSC was one of the best decisions of my life.
What is your most memorable ULethbridge experience so far?
I started the ISSC in the fall of 2023 with my girlfriend's nephew, Talon Smith. He took his own life in March, convocation without him was very hard. I considered him a little brother due to our close age. When my studies get hard and I face internal adversity I remind myself that we started together and his spirit is here to help me finish together.
How have your professors impacted your education?
Every one of my professors has had a great impact in their own way. The most influential has been Jenny Burke. I was not entirely sure what I wanted out of university, but I knew I wanted to follow my passion for nature. When I was struggling to find where I fit she guided me towards environmental science. I have not looked at nature the same since meeting her and having her teach me in Biology 0520 and now 1020.
Is there anyone else who had an important influence on your ULethbridge experience?
Michelle Hogue and Tara Froehlich from the ISSC were instrumental in giving me the opportunity to attend university. I was not a model high school student; therefore, I would not have met the minimum admission requirements. Michelle and Tara are extremely supportive of anything school-related and beyond.
Jesse's strength and success comes from his persistence, hard work and resilience. – Dr. Michelle Hogue, ISSC Coordinator
Have you received any scholarships and awards?
I have received many scholarships. My gratitude goes out to anyone and any organization that provides scholarships and awards. They make this that much easier for many who don’t have the means to pursue education otherwise. It is a great relief to have one less stressor and have a clear mind for focusing on studying.
What do you like to do in your free time?
My greatest escape is snowboarding, a day on the mountain with my headphones in keeps me sane during winter months. I have a lot of passion for the outdoors; in the summer, I go hiking and camping with my family.
What are three awesome things about you?
I’m a snowboarder, a father and I build furniture.
What are your hopes/plans for the future?
My hope for the future is to have a meaningful impact on humanity's relationship with traditional Blackfoot territory through environmental conservation and remediation research.
What advice would you like to give those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge?
Take advantage of resources on campus, including the food bank, counselling services, and most of all, find a study routine that works for you and stick with it.
Is there anything else you want to share with us about your decision to pursue a university degree?
I started at 29, it’s never too late. In fact, I feel if I had come directly out of high school, my experience would have been less impactful.
Quick Answers
Favourite class: Any biology class
Favourite social activity at ULethbridge: Hallway interactions
Favourite place to study: Science Commons
Photos submitted by Jesse
About Shining Students
Shining Students engage inside and outside of the classroom. What makes a student shine may differ from person to person, but they all share a passion for learning. They may be top students, involved in an innovative project, participating in ground-breaking research, playing Pronghorn athletics, fighting for social issues or all of the above! When students find something they enjoy and combine it with what they are good at, they shine.
Each year, the Faculty of Arts & Science's faculty and staff nominate students who exemplify the ULethbridge student spirit. Congratulations Jesse!