Jessica Reidies joined the International Development program from Connecticut although she grew up in rural Illinois and completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology at Grinnell College in Iowa. She became interested in the development field due to her deep-rooted desire for justice and equality and looks forward to the opportunity to combine broad social advocacy with a love for learning about and developing respect for different cultures. In her free time, Jessica loves to get involved with activities such as volunteering that leave her with a sense of purpose

As a recent transplant to the DC-area, she is currently exploring her options for greater community involvement. In addition to her community activities, Jessica is an avid reader and can often be found behind a book, blogging or keeping check with current events with a newspaper in hand.

Having recently completed her first year as an International Development student, Jessica is completing a practicum this summer with the World Heath Organization in Geneva, Switzerland. She is assisting with research on reproductive health care for women with disabilities and will be first author on a journal article on the same topic.