While studying computer science at the University of North Carolina Asheville, Jessica felt something was missing. Eager to find a diverse career field that combined her interest in science and helping others, she remembered she had a list of careers she researched in high school, including POP. 

At the same time, she read a news story about a little girl who received a prosthesis to help her return to gymnastics. Inspired by the story, Jessica realized that a POP career offered everything she wanted. It would allow her to apply her scientific knowledge and problem-solving skills to better people’s lives. It was the meaning and fulfillment she was looking for.   

To prepare for a career as a prosthetist orthotist, Jessica switched her major to interdisciplinary studies, molding her curriculum to be full of health science courses. Now completing her master's in prosthetics and orthotics at the University of Pittsburgh, she’s most excited to work one-on-one with patients in the semesters ahead. As a former multi-sport athlete, Jessica hopes to work with athletes who use prosthetic devices to help them continue playing the sports they love.