Chasing oil field jobs across the country brought in good money, but the grueling hours and constant travel left Blake Leger wanting a more sustainable future.
That’s when a conversation with a lifelong friend and CFO at a local construction company pushed him toward an entirely different path.
“He challenged me to think long-term about my career and encouraged me to pursue accounting,” Leger says. “Looking back, that conversation completely changed the trajectory of my life.”
Through the University of Louisiana at Lafayette's B.S.B.A. in Accounting program, Leger earned his bachelor's degree in 2025 while serving in civil affairs as a military reservist.
“I wanted to pursue my master’s degree as a way to expand my leadership skills and create more opportunities for my future,” he says.
Balancing a full-time job, growing family, and military service meant he needed a graduate program that fit his life.
UL Lafayette’s Master of Science in Accounting online program allowed him to continue working while building toward his long-term goals.
Balancing Fatherhood, Military, and Grad School
While completing the M.S. in Accounting, Leger’s schedule was often packed.
“We bought a house in December, adopted our oldest child in January and had our baby girl in June," he says. “Time management was the biggest thing for me.”
To stay on top of the courseload, he relied on a strict routine and advice from the same friend who got him into accounting.
“He'd ask me, ‘What time are you waking up?’” Leger says. “Didn't matter what I answered. His next question was always, ‘Why aren’t you waking up earlier?”
That mindset carried him through graduate school. Logging into Moodle daily, planning semesters in advance, and sticking to strict time blocks became part of his routine.
“You just have to want it,” he says.
Finding Connection and Direction in an Online MSA
While online learning requires discipline, Leger was surprised by how connected he felt to his peers and faculty.
“My professors were so engaged,” he says.
“Even online, they’re accessible, invested in their students, and willing to challenge us to think critically.”
Professors design courses with online students in mind, creating innovative opportunities in classes like ACCT 516: Ethical and Social Responsibility for Accountants to encourage students to get to know each other through video discussions.
“In the program, you’re surrounded by people facing similar challenges and working toward the same goals,” Leger says.
Meanwhile, as a military reservist and veteran, Leger could turn to UL Lafayette’s veteran support services to make navigating school easier while balancing work and family responsibilities.
He also found immediate, practical ROI in ACCT 550: Tax Research and Analysis, where students analyze real-world case studies using professional databases.
“The most fascinating thing about tax is the intersection of law, business, and analysis,” he says. “Every decision requires understanding not just the numbers, but the reasoning behind them.”
Real-World Impact, Sustained Career Growth
Leger earned his master’s in accounting within 12 months of completing his bachelor’s degree, immediately applying his advanced skills as a financial reporting accountant at Stuller Inc., the largest jewelry manufacturer in North America.
His fast-paced role combines traditional accounting with operational strategy and data analytics.
“I’m responsible for filtering and analyzing financial data,” he says. "We use that data to support month-end close processes and help leadership understand the impact of operational decisions.”
Leger is also strategizing his next career moves, like sitting for the CPA exam to solidify his marketability.
“They need CPAs in the world,” Leger says. “There are many perks but having that credential means more than a lot of people know.”
Leger also hopes to eventually advance his education and have his journey bring him back to UL Lafayette’s campus.
“I’d like to go back for my Ph.D. someday to teach at the university level,” he says.
For those still choosing their next steps — the busy professionals, veterans, and parents — Leger says don’t let "busy” hold you back.
Set your goal, make a plan, and be ready to put in the work.
“The biggest advice I have is to practice time management. Especially with a full-time job, a growing family, a house,” he says. “Time management is what helped me succeed."
Ready to unlock your own leadership potential? Discover how the online Master of Science in Accounting program at UL Lafayette is designed for working professionals just like you.
