Jessica Martinez was awarded The Kell Award at Georgia State University’s commencement May 7.

The Kell Award is given to the senior who has achieved the highest scholastic average with all course work taken at Georgia State.

The only member of her family from the United States, Jessica Martinez is proud of her Colombian heritage. Born in New Jersey, Jessica grew up in Peachtree City, following her dad’s dedication to learning to become the second person in her family to graduate from a university.

“After enduring kindergarten-12th grade without ever feeling welcome or supported by her teachers, Jessica decided to pursue a career in early childhood education to motivate students, help them exceed expectations and overcome obstacles,” according to a spokesperson.

Upon graduation, Jessica plans to teach in urban schools for a few years before heading abroad to teach English, immerse herself in new cultures and explore different kinds of school systems. Later, she plans to work towards a graduate degree in environmental science, her second passion, with the long-term goal of merging these two interests in the classroom.