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Jessica Peterson

Jessica Peterson was presented with one of the most prestigious honors at King College, The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, for her ability to apply spiritual qualities to daily living. Jessica  shared her Christian message with others as she left her predictable lifestyle to be immersed in language and culture of Haiti.

”Life was different,” Jessica said. “Island-life tends to be more laid back than our structured way of living here in the States.”

Jessica’s life for seven weeks this summer was anything but easy going. She cared for and nurtured children living in a Haitian orphanage while sharing her Christian message.

“I was really excited about meeting the children,” she said. “Children really need someone to give them the love and attention they deserve. Children enrich your life so much by bringing joy and happiness. When you invest your time and energy to work with them, you always get it back.”

Jessica’s desire to travel stems from her friendships she developed with the international students attending King. She participated in  the Diplomats program where “locals” introduce international students to King College and Bristol.

“I learned so much about the international students through Diplomats,” Jessica adds, “It’s always interesting to see and hear their reaction to different places and experiences here in Bristol. Not only has it helped me to submerge myself in different cultures, but it has also provided a unique view of my own life, and how I see things.”

Jessica, a biology and French double-major, gained a new perspective in her own life as she volunteered in a Haitian missions hospital and learned  more being a physician.

”Being a doctor combines my science and language skills with my enjoyment of being around people and helping them. It is my dream job.”

Jessica first discovered King College while at a youth camp held on campus. She immediately fell in love with the campus and the atmosphere.

“I knew then that I was coming to King. In fact, King was the only college I applied to, that’s how sure I was.”