Jessica is honored to be an Academic Advisor with the University of Kentucky’s Gatton College of Business and Economics as of June 2023. Her professional passion is assisting students with creating a graduation plan/semester schedule that is ideal for their own individual lives/goals. Jessica genuinely enjoys meeting with students to map out their semester schedule so that it best fits their academic, athletic/extra-curricular, and individual needs. She continuously seeks new opportunities to grow and learn in her field so that she can make an even greater impact on her students’ success. Jessica strives to be a truly positive resource for her students as they progress through their collegiate path.
Prior to joining the UK Gatton advising team, Jessica completed six years as a high school counselor and nine years as a high school English teacher. Jessica earned a Master of Science Degree in School Counseling from Indiana University and a Master of Arts Degree in Teaching from the University of Louisville. She also earned a BA in English and a BA in Humanities from the University of Louisville. In her free time, Jessica enjoys reading, painting, gaming, spending time with family, working out, and playing with her two cats.
Introducing Jessica Hickerson!
Jessica is a proud Kentucky native who is honored to be an Academic Advisor at the esteemed Gatton College of Business and Economics, University of Kentucky. Although she started her journey in June 2023, she already feels like a valued member of the Gatton family.
Jessica's passion lies in assisting students with creating personalized graduation plans and semester schedules that perfectly align with their individual lives and goals. She genuinely enjoys meeting with students, taking into account their academic commitments, athletic and extracurricular activities, and personal needs, to help them map out an ideal semester schedule.
With a background of six years as a high school counselor and nine years as a high school English teacher, Jessica brings a wealth of experience to her advising role. She holds a Master of Science Degree in School Counseling from Indiana University and a Master of Arts Degree in Teaching from the University of Louisville. Additionally, she earned dual Bachelor's degrees in English and Humanities from the University of Louisville.
When Jessica isn't guiding students, she indulges in a variety of hobbies. Reading, painting, gaming, spending time with family, working out, and playing with her two cats bring joy to her life.
What stands out to Jessica about Gatton and Gatton students? It's the high level of professionalism and inclusivity that she has experienced within the community. Her Gatton colleagues have displayed exceptional knowledge, support, and respect during her transition into the role. Furthermore, the Gatton students she has interacted with exhibit eagerness to learn, motivation, and genuine excitement to be part of the Gatton family. Jessica couldn't be prouder to be part of this remarkable community.
Here's a surprising fun fact about Jessica: She is an ACE-certified Group Fitness Instructor and a licensed Zumba instructor! So, in addition to guiding students, she knows how to keep the energy flowing on the dance floor.
