Learning new skills, overcoming challenges: Meet Jessica

by Laney Daniels

About Jessica

Growing up with immigrant parents, Jessica learned to strive for what she wants and never give up. Growing up she has always worked hard for the goals she gave herself in life. Her parents taught her to go for her dreams and to not stop there, working for what you want will get you where you need to be. Jessica grew up in the SouthSide of Milwaukee with her two sisters and her parents who had immigrated from Mexico.

Education is very important to Jessica and her family. Her two sisters graduated from Alverno College and Jessica is working towards her bachelor's as a fashion merchandise management student in her sophomore year. In her free time, she likes to make collages, go for runs, reading and she also likes creative writing. She is passionate about the fashion industry, arts, literature, and music!

Jessica went to a high school called International Baccalaureate where it was a highly challenging advanced program she was put in. There she learned skills for the future to make a difference in the world. She barely received one on one help and it was stressful most times. Once she got to college she felt more comfortable and at ease with the environment. She was able to find the help she needed and the Promise Program was a big part of this.

MMU Experience

Some challenges she has faced in her first two years of college were her first year being at the height of COVID and dealing with the changes at the University. It impacted her whole learning experience. She had to develop new communication skills through zoom and learn how to study without being in the actual classroom. Then once she was back on campus it was a matter of learning communication skills all over again. It was a lot of change for a little over a year and it is taking time to get back into the rhythm of in-person schooling. To overcome the challenges that she has faced she learned how to manage her time throughout the day and how to space out her homework while taking time for herself. This consisted of taking frequent breaks throughout the day and stepping back from the screen. She also emailed and asked professors any questions she had on her mind so everything was clear when it came to doing homework and doing her best within her classes. She also took advantage of the Promise Program once she could go on campus. She chose to focus and study there, being in a nice warm environment. And she also had the choice of speaking to the Promise Program tutor when she needed help.

"The Promise Program is a place where students can feel welcome and use their voice. A place where you can seek any help you might need!"

- Vickie LeFlore

Promise Program

Promise Program Experience

When choosing Mount Mary Jessica didn’t know about the Promise Program right away. She chose Mount Mary for their well-known Fashion Program and what they offered throughout the curriculum. Once she came on campus she heard about the Promise Program and joined right away. Now she studies there most days after class, just having a safe place to relax and study before heading home. The Promise Program helped her adjust more after zoom classes and interactions with people only online. Not only did it help throughout COVID, but it also helped her find a community after high school! Now she has the promise program to help her in person with whatever she needs and she loves it.