Outstanding Students

Jessica Cortez

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Riverside, California.

Why did you choose Kirkwood?

I choose Kirkwood because it offers classes that worked with my busy schedule.

What is your major and how did you choose it?

My major is Business Administration – Management. I started attending Kirkwood with the intention of getting into the nursing program. However, I decided to pursue my childhood dream of becoming an Administrative Assistant after getting an Office Assistant job within Kirkwood at the Continuing Education Department.

What has been your proudest moment at Kirkwood?

I am a first-generation student, and the proudest moment would be making it on the Dean’s list and being a part of Phi Theta Kappa.

What are your plans after Kirkwood?

I want to take a year break and then hit the books again. The year break would allow me to get adjusted to my new job and further develop my skills.

What inspires or motivates you?

My childhood experiences motivate me to try my very best in everything I do. I want to be able to provide a better life for my children alongside my doting husband, Jorge.

Tell us about who you are outside of Kirkwood – hobbies, family, other interests, etc.

My husband and I moved to Iowa 7 years ago. We are both originally from California, however, he was raised out here in Iowa. When weather permits, we enjoy going to parks, going on walks and creating crafts with our children.

What does being named an Outstanding Student mean to you?  
It is an honor to be named an outstanding student. It reminds me that it is never too late to start again and that nothing is out of reach if you are willing to work for it.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I am grateful for all the professors I have had throughout my educational path here at Kirkwood. I am ever so thankful for my Advisor as well. Her encouraging words during our first meeting were one of the main reasons I believed I could take the step to return to school.

Categories: Outstanding Students