Getting to Know You ➡ Jessica Bailey
Getting to Know You ➡ Jessica Bailey
Jessica Bailey is the institutional scholarship coordinator for the Office of Financial Aid.
How did you get started in your career field?
I was an undergraduate student worker in financial aid at Illinois College. I also worked briefly in the Office of Financial Aid at Missouri State University. When I decided to pursue my graduate degree in college student personnel administration at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, I worked in the housing department.
The scholarship coordinator position here at UIS sparked my interest and curiosity to return to financial aid work. I am very happy that I applied and made the transition because I love what I do, and I work with an amazing team.
What’s something you’re really proud of?
From a work standpoint, I am proud of my customer service skills and my collaboration with parents, students, faculty, staff and other stakeholders. I do my best to assist with questions and concerns, lead with empathy, think critically through problems and establish creative solutions.
From a personal standpoint, I am very proud to be a mother. Two of the most important beings in my life are my son, Remington, 2, and my dog, Raven, a 4-year-old standard poodle.
What’s your favorite season of the year and why?
My favorite season is fall. I love the changing colors of the trees, the brisk morning air, apple cider and cozy sweaters. One reason I love this time of year is that I prefer colder weather. I also enjoy attending pumpkin patches and fall festivals with family and friends.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
The first thing that comes to mind is: “Do not rush your self-improvement.” I believe different societal and environmental influences reinforce the idea that outcomes should be quick and timely. While that may be true for some things, I do not believe it is productive or realistic for self-improvement. Personal development is not a linear process; it can be a long-term journey with ongoing peaks and valleys. Topics like healing, reflection, and identity can take years to work through. Self-improvement may also look different from year to year, depending on various life phases and priorities. During my valleys, I try to be mindful that some days will be better than others, tomorrow is a new day, and if I am “driving” with my most genuine and authentic self, I am doing my best.
Getting to Know You is recurring feature in the Chancellor's Newsletter to highlight our many talented UIS employees.