Jesse Welch is a sophomore majoring in Drama with a concentration in Production. He helped build the set for this semester’s production of Once Upon a Mattress, and he had planned to help with the production of The Diary of Anne Frank, which had to be cancelled.

Where are you from?

I’m from here. I was born in Jacksonville RMC, and I have lived in the Asberry community my whole life.

Why did you choose JSU?

Really I chose it because it’s super close to home, but I also have free tuition since my mom works here.

What are some of your hobbies and interests?

I like building things and maybe trying to fix stuff. But usually I just end up breaking it more, so I use the parts to make something else like little toys or something. I’ve been doing that since I was little. I play around with musical instruments, too, like the bass guitar, keyboard, trumpet, and a few other instruments. And if I have time, I’ll play a video game.

What is your favorite thing to eat in Jacksonville? 

I’m not really sure what my favorite thing is to eat, but I do really like getting sushi from Isshin. I used to love Cecil’s food when they were open.

Why did you choose your major? 

I chose my major so I could be a prop builder. I’ve always liked making stuff to play with or to show off. It took a little bit to come to the idea of building props and things like that for movies or theater. Really it was Adam Savage and other makers that inspired me to really dig into this field.

Which class are you most excited for this semester? 

I have Student’s Theatre this semester, which is exactly what I want to be doing. Building scenery and helping with props and such. But I’ve really been enjoying my Acting 1 class. It’s been interesting and fun.

What has been the most impactful experience you’ve had as a college student?  

Some of the best lessons I’ve learned have come from tool etiquette in student’s theatre and the hands-on experiences from jumping into building things. However, my acting class has been influential on an interpersonal and self-image level. 

How has JSU been preparing you for life after college? 

Besides hammering in work ethic and good scheduling in general, the scene shop has been a good hint as to what a professional theatre company scene shop might be like. 

Do you have any post-graduation plans (if any)?

I don’t have anything solid yet really. I’ll try to get theatre jobs around this area for a while, but I’d like to work in a big theater. Maybe something like LA or New York. I’ve heard Canada has some nice theaters, too, and I do enjoy colder weather.