Jessica Anderson
Student Outreach/Recruitment Specialist
Virginia is home. Dumfries, Virginia is where my heart is. I grew up near Quantico Marine Base, helping Grandpa (a very proud veteran) run a small convenience store on the base, in addition to a local ice cream truck and side newspaper delivery hustle! For as long as I can remember, my cup has always been filled with the invigorating energy of meeting new people.
What brought you to this area, and to Reynolds?
A grant funded position (3PL) with the VCCS brought me to Richmond back in 2013. I eventually transitioned from the James Monroe Building to Armstrong High School where a gracious colleague helped re-connect my passion for serving high school students with post-secondary opportunities at Reynolds.
What were you doing before coming to Reynolds?
I have always worked in education. From 2014 - 2019, I was very fortunate to serve the students and families of Armstrong High School as the coordinator for the Freshman Academy Program; a partnership between the faith-based community and the East End.
Tell us about your work here at the college. What is a typical day like for you?
I am the High School Outreach Specialist for Reynolds. In short, this means I get to do what I absolutely love - which is to bridge our young people with the resources that support their academic and professional aspirations! My day is always in motion - either on the road visiting schools or in conversation with colleagues to soak up new knowledge. I enjoy telling students, high school counselors and community partners about our wonderful college.
What are your greatest challenges in your work? Greatest rewards?
The greatest challenge to my work is the "four year vs two year" conversation with prospective students. I value my four experience (GO HOKIES!) and subsequent time studying at the University of Georgia (GO DAWGS!) and am always exploring new ways to convey to high school age students that community college is a very viable, attractive option.
The greatest reward is showing up for a high school presentation to find a room full of students willing to listen and consider the option.
You’re a busy lady. How do you keep all your tours and site visits organized?
I am still working on the organization part! Needless to say, time management is also one of my greatest challenges, but thanks to multiple calendars, colorful post-it notes, binder clips, boxes of materials in my vehicle and an awesome team of co-workers, we get the job done.
What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
I am open to anything that involves food and being outside (on a warm day!). When the stars align, my 13 year old son and I enjoy spending time with my two nephews (ages five and eight) and taking family trips with my mom, dad and two younger sisters.
What is your favorite book, movie, or TV series, and why?
Coming to America, the original movie, is my all- time favorite. I also enjoy the idea of reading, curled up in a sun filled spot, but then again, that usually leads to a very rewarding nap!
If you won $100 million in the lottery what would you do with the money?
I would host a HUGE celebration on a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean. I would invite everyone, including my entire extended family and all of the students I have ever worked with plus their families. There would be an unlimited taco bar, desserts, live music, and of course, fireworks!
