Hello! My name Is…
My name is Jessica Plasters and I am a resident of Martinsville, VA where I have lived for my entire 31 years on earth. I often refer to myself as “wearing many hats” in my life as I juggle being a mother, manager and now a student! I am very excited to be enrolled in Averett University as I have wanted to continue my education for quite some time. I earned my AAS degree in 2009 from Patrick Henry Community College. I then planned to start my bachelors program shortly after that but life had other plans for me. I had found out I was one of the very lucky people in the world that gets to see life through a different perspective – through the eyes and mind of an Autistic little boy. We have over came so many challenges and obstacles but he is now 12 years old and one of my biggest supporters in returning back to school. I also have a 4 year old son, born on the 4th of July and he is exactly that – a firecracker!! I work for a company based out of Fairfax, VA called ICF where I am currently a Project Manager for a customer contact center project. I have been employed with ICF for almost 5 years and am very lucky to work for a company that empowers their employees to obtain their education and is supporting and assisting me enrolling in Averett University to obtain my degree. On the weekend and outside of working hours, I enjoy doing anything outdoors with my boyfriend and two children: swimming, hiking, rock climbing, kayaking and other water sports. I love to travel and explore new places. I am known to be very active and energetic.
What is your motivation for obtaining your degree here at Averett University?
My children are my motivation for everything in life. I want to provide the best life for them as well as I want to advance in my career, and obtaining my degree is the next big step for my career growth.
Why did you choose Averett University’s Graduate & Professional Studies program?
I had obtained my AAS degree from PHCC in 2009 and while researching my options of going back to school to obtain my Bachelor’s Degree I saw where Averett offered the Bachelor’s in Applied Science for graduates of the Associates in Applied Science Degree like I had obtained.
How has your degree from Averett University assisted you in your career?
I am currently in a leadership role in my career and the degree program in which I am enrolled in is the Leadership Studies Program. It has assisted me with new techniques and approaches that I can apply in my daily career.
What advice would you share for current and incoming students in Averett University’s GPS program?
Many people have told me that it would be too hard to go back to school while working full-time and having children. I am here to tell you that is not true. The GPS Program is designed for those who are trying to juggle many responsibilities while obtaining your degree. It takes determination and dedication, but it is doable and such a great program.
The GPS Program is designed for those who are trying to juggle many responsibilities while obtaining your degree. It takes determination and dedication, but it is doable and such a great program.
What keeps you motivated while in your degree program?
My children are my motivation for everything in life. I want to provide the best life for them as well as I want to advance in my career, and obtaining my degree is the next big step for my career growth.
What is your anticipated date of graduation?
Averett University, Class of 2018!