News
Students
Students
My Journey to JWU: Jessica Ralph '26
JWU Charlotte’s Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management (SEEM) B.S. program prepares Wildcats to enter the multi-billion-dollar sports, entertainment and event management industry with the skills and knowledge to excel. Jessica Ralph '26 is entering the SEEM program excited to continue her sports career as a member of the JWU Women’s Soccer team as well as be able to attend the same college her mother graduated from. She shared her journey to JWU with us.
Why did you choose JWU and its SEEM program?
Jessica Ralph: I was attracted by the small class sizes and the wonderful internship opportunities. I also can’t wait to live in Charlotte with all the different major sports teams that call Charlotte home!
What made you choose the Charlotte Campus?
I was born and raised in Stafford, Virginia, though in middle school we moved to Charleston, South Carolina for about a year and a half. I really loved the south, which is why I started looking at colleges there. I chose the Charlotte campus because it is closer to home, yet still in a big city with so many opportunities. And I'm excited for all the sporting experiences I'll have at my fingertips in Charlotte. I am still amazed at how close the Carolina Panthers stadium is to the JWU campus!
What are some of your hobbies?
I’ve played soccer for as long as I can remember. When I was younger I tried dance and cheerleading too, but soccer was always my favorite. In high school I supported my school by playing field hockey in the fall and soccer in the spring. I also enjoy photography and have since I was little, when my grandma introduced me to the art of taking pictures.
What are you most looking forward to experiencing at JWU?
Being a part of JWU’s soccer team! Soccer has been a big part of my life and I'm so excited to be given the opportunity to continue to play. I’ve already met some of the players and I can’t wait to join the team. I am also super excited for the internship opportunities! I don’t know where I’ll end up, but I know that JWU will help me in getting the internship that is right for me.
What has your JWU admissions experience been like?
My experience with my admissions representative, Elena, has been fantastic! Anytime I’ve reached out with a question or wanted to set up a meeting she was so helpful and quick to respond. She is very detailed, and if she wasn’t sure of the answer she went above and beyond to find the answer for me. She has made the college process less stressful and easier to navigate.
Did you grow up hearing about JWU from your mom?
I did grow up hearing a lot about JWU! My mom attended both the Providence and Charleston campuses. When we lived in Charleston my mom would always pointed out where the campus used to be and her favorite places to go when we were downtown. My mom also met some of her closest friends at JWU. Her experience has shown me that I will build long-lasting relationships at JWU.
