Marissa Jensen

Transitioning to a second career is a big decision that takes dedication, hard work and determination. Many might assume the only reason to take this leap is to leave an unsatisfying career. For Marissa Jensen, however, it was the next big step in living out her passion, and the change ultimately led to her dream career.

In the years after completing her Bachelor of Science at Bellevue University in 2016, Jensen joined Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever and was promoted to the organization’s Education and Outreach Program Manager in September 2019.

Taking on a Career Change Before attending Bellevue University, Jensen had already worked hard to thrive in a career she loved. As a licensed veterinary technician, she worked in emergency animal medicine.

“I always really enjoyed the fast pace of emergency and critical care medicine, forcing you to make important decisions on your feet,” she said. “Although I loved that career, I’d wanted to work in conservation my entire life, to be an advocate for wildlife and the environment.”

Jensen has been drawn to nature since childhood. “I always wanted to save the world,” she said. As a child, this meant things like helping her father and grandfather in their garden, watching monarch butterflies and picking up trash on the side of the road. “It’s just been a part of who I am.”

She made the decision to pursue her passion for conservation by going back to school to complete a degree in biology.

Choosing the Right School A native of Omaha, Neb., Jensen began looking at schools in her area and found that Bellevue University was the only one that would accept the credits from veterinary associate’s degree.

“I worked full time during my studies, and am also a parent, so it meant a lot to be able to utilize credits that I had already worked so hard for,” she said. “I also really enjoyed the smaller classrooms and more intimate experience that Bellevue University provided.” Jensen also received a scholarship, which she said helped her focus more on her studies and less on finances. “I never doubt the decision I made to attend Bellevue University; it was a tremendous experience.”