Jessica Watley

Jessica Watley is a third-year student at Michigan State University, double majoring in Environmental Biology/Zoology and Community Engagement. Since Fall 2023, she has served as a Communications Intern in the Residential College in the Arts and Humanities (RCAH), where she curates content for the RCAH newsletter and Creative Directory through writing and photography.

Inspired by the RCAH community since her first year, Jess continues to explore the intersections of creativity, community, and purpose. She currently doubles as an Undergraduate Learning Assistant (ULA) for RCAH 150: Introduction to the Arts and Humanities, where she supports student engagement and contributes to building inclusive learning spaces.

Jess is also a ROOTS Scholar and a Dow STEM Scholar. Her academic journey reflects a deep passion for both environmental research and community-driven work. Whether she’s studying ecosystems in the classroom or supporting students through creative storytelling, she’s driven by a desire to make science more accessible and impactful. In her free time, she enjoys running, reading, making pottery, and listening to music—activities that help her stay grounded and creatively inspired as she works to bridge the worlds of science, art, and social change.