KENNESAW, Ga. | Apr 2, 2025

An undercurrent of restlessness and curiosity fuels Jess Maillet.

The nontraditional, first-generation Kennesaw State University student has embraced change at every turn, from leaving her longtime restaurant job to enroll in college, to juggling several research projects across multiple disciplines as a mother of four.

Along the way, Maillet has presented at the Symposium of Student Scholars, engaged in research as part of the First-Year Scholars program, and secured a spot in the President’s Parliament Scholars Ambassadors (PPSA) program. She’s also participating in the Double Owl Pathways program, allowing her to earn credits toward a master’s degree while completing her bachelor’s degree.

“I’ve seen KSU go through such a transformation, and I’ve gone through a transformation, too,” said Maillet, who is pursuing studies in psychology and social work. “I’m fortunate to be in a place that embraces the eclectic and curious person that I am.”

Looking to advance her career, Maillet started her academic journey at Chattahoochee Technical College but chose to transfer to Kennesaw State in 2023 to pursue a bachelor’s degree. It didn’t take long for her to be introduced to research by way of associate professor of educational psychology Ordene Edwards, who taught Maillet in a research methodology class. Later, Maillet would join Dr Edwards’ research team exploring differences in ADHD symptomatology across generation status and the impact on college students’ mental health outcomes.

“Jess is phenomenal. There’s no other word to describe her,” Edwards said. “I think she’s a model student, embodying everything KSU represents. Her potential is limitless, and with her talent and drive, her future looks bright.”

As a member of the First-Year Scholars program, Maillet was subsequently connected with associate professor of theater and performance studies Charles Parrott for a project at the intersection of psychology and storytelling, which she presented at the Symposium of Student Scholars. Already pondering her major in psychology, Maillet said First-Year Scholars are encouraged to take on projects outside of their field, something she embraced.

A self-described “theater kid” from her high school days, Maillet described her research methodology as “personal reflection and excavation” in creating a narrative to address personal trauma.

“It was an out-of-the-box experience because Dr. Parrott challenged me to tell a story from my life,” she said. “Being with all those other students was a whole new world for me, but it was cool.”

It was also just the beginning for her. With the support of her husband, Jason, Maillet started applying for scholarships through Scholarship Universe. She applied for the President’s Parliament Scholars Ambassadors program twice, and she was accepted into the competitive program on the second attempt. The program recognizes students achieving great things in the classroom and in the community.

Through the Double Owl Pathways, Maillet has also begun earning credits toward her Master of Social Work (MSW).

“Social work has been by far my favorite discipline,” she said. “From the first day I attended class this semester, I knew it was the right path.”

After finishing her MSW next year, Maillet will follow her interests wherever they take her, and she’ll continue to be an eclectic, curious person, all the while encouraging the same in her family.

“I’ve had so many opportunities at KSU, and I’ll just keep learning,” she said.

– Story by Dave Shelles

Photos by Matt Yung

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.