Jessica grew up in San Francisco, California. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Chicago, where she majored in comparative human development. In her coursework, she focused on cross-cultural studies of complex human problems from an interdisciplinary perspective. After completing her degree, Jessica stayed in Chicago and worked at the Heartland Alliance Marjorie Kovler Center, where she served as a case manager for survivors of torture. Jessica enjoys singing in an Early Music a cappella ensemble and biking around the city on sunny days.