Sam Hesler, Marist ‘19

Majored in Communications (Journalism) and History.

What has your career path been to this point?

Two weeks after graduating, I began at NewsChannel 13 in Albany. I started as the morning traffic reporter and a web producer, working part-time. About six months later, I was promoted to full-time. In December 2020, I began filling in as the morning reporter, while my colleague was out on maternity leave. When she came back, I stayed on as a second morning reporter. I covered local stories in addition to breaking news around the country. About six weeks ago, I began filling in as the anchor for the weekend morning show. It's been a dream come true! I had also interned at NewsChannel 13 back in the summer of 2018. I've also worked as a park ranger, in children's theater, and as an office coordinator in a church.

Can you share a memory from your time at HRVI that stands out as meaningful?

My favorite experience from HRVI was researching and writing about Laura Johnson Wylie! She was truly a trailblazer in the women's suffragist movement in Poughkeepsie. To this day, I think that was one of my best experiences at Marist College. I learned so much, and it was an incredible feeling to have my work published. Learning about Wylie was inspiring to say the least!

How has your experience at HRVI helped you advance your education and/or professional pursuits since graduating from Marist?

HRVI really honed in my writing and storytelling skills. I use both on a daily basis at work! It also improved my research skills, another valuable tool in my line of work. Some of my favorite stories to tell involve local history. I recently had morning live shots aboard the USS Slater, which was a wonderful experience.

As HRVI celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2022, do you have any advice for future HRVI interns based on your time at HRVI and your experience in your professional field?

Even if you don't end up directly in a career that involves history, you can use the skills you learn at HRVI anywhere! Also, pour your heart and soul into your historical research. You may never get the chance to do something like that again! Having my research published in The Hudson River Valley Review was incredible. It's an experience I bragged about to The Times Union newspaper in Albany!