10 Years of Cardinal Quarter: Jessica Reynoso
Jessica Reynoso, ’20; Cardinal Careers Program Manager, Haas Center for Public Service
Cardinal Quarter Placements: ACT for Women and Girls (2017, 2019); City of Stockton Mayor's Office (2018): Stanford in Washington with Rep. TJ Cox (2020)
What impact did your Cardinal Quarter experience have on you?
As a first-generation low-income (FLI) student, Cardinal Quarter gave me the opportunity to dive into public service opportunities wholeheartedly without the worry of finances. I'm grateful for the four Cardinal Quarter experiences I had.
How did your Cardinal Quarter influence your academic, career, or life choices?
My summer serving Stockton through the Office of Mayor Tubbs was so insightful for seeing the inner workings of local government. It reaffirmed for me the desire to return to the Central Valley to serve my hometown and county.
What is one memory or lesson from your Cardinal Quarter that has stayed with you?
In Mayor Tubb's office, I had an opportunity to work on various projects and events. One of my favorite memories was delivering "Certificates of Recognition" at events during National Night Out, designed to foster stronger partnerships between police and their communities to promote safety and awareness. It was beautiful to represent the Mayor's Office and see the community show out at events across the city.
What advice would you give to a student considering a Cardinal Quarter?
Do it! I learned so much from my Cardinal Quarter experiences. Allow yourself the opportunity to explore different issue areas that you're interested in.
What does public service mean to you today?
Public service has been a throughline in the opportunities that I pursue in my personal and professional life. I'm grateful that the Haas Center showed me that public service was a viable career option for me after graduation as well.
