FEATURE: Balancing Books and the Track, Jessie Durkee Finds Her Path at Ferris State

By Sandy Gholston

BIG RAPIDS, Mich. – Miles on the road. Hours in the classroom. Long days that frequently start before sunrise and don't end until darkness have become routine for track and field standout Jessie Durkee.

That's been largely Durkee's rhythm of life at Ferris State—one built on equal parts discipline, passion and purpose.

Academics have always stood as a top priority for Durkee.

"Before I even considered running in college, I was interested in Ferris State's Health Professions majors," she said. "After selecting my major and being accepted at FSU, I met with the cross country and track and field coaches."

Even during her time at Thornapple-Kellogg High School in Middleville, the West Michigan product was already laying the groundwork for her future – striving for athletic success and focusing on academics as a foundation for future success.

"It can be easy to get caught up in the 'athlete' part of 'student-athlete,' but I found that the coaches emphasized prioritizing academics and earning our degrees while pushing us to become strong, competitive athletes," she said.

Durkee quickly saw a support system, reinforcing her belief that Ferris State was the right choice.

"It was clear to me that the cross country coaches and women's team would be a source of support athletically and academically," said Durkee, a native of Freeport.

Following her 2025 fall cross country season, Durkee redirected her attention to Ferris State's indoor track and field campaign.

While the holiday season offers downtime for many people, that isn't the case for track and field student-athletes.

"After training all winter, I was able to achieve a personal record in the mile at my final collegiate indoor meet," Durkee said of her time of 5:11.34 at the 2026 GLIAC Indoor Track and Field Championships at Saginaw Valley State. "This indoor season was unusual due to the harsh winter weather. We had to stay flexible, never knowing which workouts would need to be adjusted because of ice, snow and freezing temperatures."

Along with weather challenges, her academic responsibilities remained a priority.

"I had several individual practices because of my class schedule, so a lot of my miles were run on the treadmill," Durkee said. "I'm hoping for good weather and another personal record as I transition from the 5K and mile indoors to the 5K and 1500 meters outdoors."

While her events center on individual performance, Durkee said the team dynamic remains a defining part of the experience.

"The highlight of this season has been seeing my teammates achieve their longtime goals," said Durkee, who opened the outdoor season with a sixth-place finish in the 1500 meters (4:47.99) at the Bellarmine Jim Vargo Invitational on March 28 in Louisville, Kentucky. "I'm proud of my own achievements, but seeing my teammates succeed is just as fulfilling. Cheering for each other is one of the best parts of every season."

That team support is something she feels every time she competes.

"Hearing my teammates cheer from the sidelines and knowing they'll be waiting at the finish line, no matter the result, speaks to our team culture," she said. "I'm most proud of how we celebrate one another's success."

The Bulldog culture has also helped shape her growth beyond competition.

"Being a student-athlete comes with unique challenges. One of my biggest areas of growth has been time management," she said. "Staying busy can be stressful, but it teaches you how to prioritize and plan. It's helped me improve my organization and communication skills."

From her freshman year to now, the growth has been hard to ignore.

"Entering college, everything is new—academically and socially," she said. "Having practices, lifts and meets gave me structure over the past four years. Learning to perform under pressure is another skill I've developed."

Durkee added, "Pressure can feel heavy, but it's also a privilege. As a senior, I can reflect on my past performances and approach future opportunities with gratitude."

That gratitude extends to her academic journey as well, seeing the light at the end of the tunnel of this leg of her Ferris State experience.

"I am currently in my fifth and final semester of nursing at Ferris State," she said. "I can't say enough about the School of Nursing staff and their commitment to student success."

Knowing people have been there for her has made a lasting impact.

"I've had great experiences with my professors. They've supported my athletic commitments as well," Durkee said. "With the help of my professors, coaches and teammates, I'm graduating with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and feel prepared to pursue licensure and enter the healthcare field."

Looking ahead, Durkee expects a shift in pace.

"I think life will slow down a little after college," she said. "Right now, I'm balancing classes, practices, lifting, travel and working in healthcare, so most days are fully booked."

Soon, however, her focus will narrow.

"I'm looking forward to prioritizing my career and family, and I'm excited for the transition from college athlete to hobby jogger," she said. "Even though I won't see my teammates every day, I plan to maintain those friendships for the rest of my life."

As she prepares for the next chapter, Durkee leaves Ferris State not just as an accomplished athlete, but as a prepared professional ready to make an impact in healthcare.

The Bulldogs will compete in the 2026 GLIAC Championships starting on Thursday (April 30) in Allendale.