Alumni Spotlight: Jess Adam '04

Jess graduated from Duke University in 2009 with a bachelor's in biological anthropology and anatomy, and a certificate in markets and management. Two-time captain of the Duke Women’s Lacrosse Program, Jess went on to intern at ESPN's “Wide World of Sports” at Disney World in event management, following her graduation. Her love of lacrosse took her across the pond as well, where she served as the Head of the Women's Lacrosse Program at Durham University and led them to a first-place finish in the British Universities and College Sports National Championship.

The fabric of strong community has been integral to each of Jess’ professional experiences. She reflects, “Severn is where I experienced the thrill of being part of a team. Everything that happened on the field, on the court or in the classroom taught me some type of life skill that has made me into the person that I am today. I credit my coaches and teachers at Severn for instilling these lessons into my high school experience. I learned how to compete, how to lead, how to persevere and most importantly, how to be a team player.” 

After her lacrosse career wound down, Jess wholeheartedly pursued her interest in psychology, completing the master's program in clinical psychology at Antioch University in Los Angeles. Now she is a licensed therapist in Los Angeles, working with young adults in private practice and community health. She also teaches AP Psychology, Brain and Behavior, and Human Development at Buckley School. After hours, you can find her hiking, going to the beach, and spending time with friends and family. Jess recalls, “Severn also taught me that you can be passionate about many things in your life, instead of just following one dream. Although I was a devoted three-sport athlete, I was encouraged to try new things and develop different interests. I was able to start a club, be in a school play and be a senior prefect. I am grateful for the enormous impact that Severn had on my life and know that it helps to guide me in my career today, where I counsel young adults and high school students drawing from my own Severn experiences.”