Psychology/Natural Sciences, Class of 2022
Looking to strengthen her volleyball skills, Jessica Smith met with Judson Volleyball Coach Julie Fahy and just knew that Judson was a place for her.
Joining the volleyball team has made Jessica’s Judson experience unique.
“Many students comment on the sense of community that Judson offers,” she says. “I am fortunate to also be a part of a team that becomes like a family in the way that each member supports, encourages, and challenges one another to be the best version of themselves.”
With a major in Psychology and Natural Sciences and a minor in English Literature, Jessica hopes to enter the medical field when she graduates in 2022. Currently, she works as a learning advisor for RISE students as well as a tutor for English, writing, and science.
Jessica also completed an internship for the World Relief in Medical Case Management, where she gained a better understanding of the medical needs and struggles of various refugee, asylee, and immigrant clients. She says: “Though this internship was meant to fulfill a requirement for my psychology major, I feel that it integrated all three areas of my studies, psychology, science, and literature, by allowing me to apply various interpersonal skills in a diverse environment, work within the healthcare system, and hear the stories of others.”
“Beyond classroom learning, Judson has helped stretch me as an individual, growing me in my compassion, confidence, and commitment to excellence in all that I do,” she says.
Reflecting on this current school year, she says, “I think one of the things that this year has taught me is that a lack of certainty or control is ultimately a gift, in that it can lead to deeper gratitude in each present moment and shift reliance from self to God.”