Jessica Gibson is the new Resident Director for Naito/Sullivan
Where did you go to school? Notre Dame and Wash U in St. Louis. One too many Midwestern schools, in my opinion.
What did you study? Program of Liberal Studies, and then social work. Loved them both!
What drew you to Portland? (1) There is always something fun going in Portland! (2) I can wear my fleece to any of those fun events and I always fit in. (3) In thirty minutes I can be out of the city and hiking towards dozens of waterfalls. (4) There is Argentine tango dancing in Portland 6 nights a week!
What drew you to Reed? Cheesy though it may sound, the Honor Principle was a big part of it. Although I don’t know precisely what it is yet (does anyone?) I can see its effect on many facets of Reed life. For example, I’m so impressed by the way members of this community look out for one another and respect one another, and by the commitment folks here have to ongoing dialogue and reflection. I’m also thrilled and honored to be working with students who are so deeply devoted to the life of the mind—you’re all incredibly inspiring, and I’m excited to learn alongside you.
How do you like living on campus? I love it! I get to appreciate all the things about college life that I took for granted the first time around—like having a meal plan. Having all-hours access to tasty food, with no prep and no dishes, just blows my mind! Plus, Reed’s campus is just gorgeous, and everyone I’ve met has been wonderfully welcoming.
Can you tell us a bit about who lives with you? My human companion, Dylan, lives with me. He’s a kind, loveable sort who keeps me grounded and makes me feel like the luckiest person on Earth. I also have a feline companion, Bailey, who is adorable in my eyes, but admittedly weird-looking. In the words of one of my HAs, “He looks like a villain from a sci-fi movie who’s plotting to take over the world.” (Thanks, Kaleena).
What’s your favorite place to eat in Portland? Ohhhhh, there are SO many places. This is a dangerous question to ask me. I love the ridiculously indulgent breakfasts at Pine State Biscuits. I currently have 3 pints of ice-cream in my freezer from Salt & Straw, courtesy of the afore-mentioned Dylan. Toro Bravo is one of my favorite dinner spots—but best to go with a group of 4 or 5 people. Oh, and how could I forget Pok Pok?!?!? Unfortunately, all of these places regularly have wait times up to 2 hours long, so they’re occasional indulgences.
We’ve heard you like to cook, what’s your favorite dish to make? It depends on all sorts of factors, like my mood, how much time I have available, and what ingredients are in my pantry. I love roasting vegetables—quick, easy, and always tasty. In winter, a good beer- or wine-based beef stew can’t be beat. For special occasions, I’ve learned how to make Chilean empanadas (yum!). And, of course, my nonna’s lasagna recipe: pasta, meat ragu, béchamel sauce, and parmesan cheese. That’s it, folks. But you would NEVER know it based on how amazingly delicious it is.
A painting of Jess dancing the tango!
If you could spend 2 weeks anywhere in the world, where would it be? Can I have six weeks instead? Two backpacking in India, two eating my way through Thailand, and two on a Vespa in Italy and/or France.
If you were going to take 1 Reed class, what would it be? I can’t tell you how many times I’ve poured over the class schedule already! Hum 110 looks good—takes me back to my own undergraduate roots. There are also some lovely-looking Lit and Philo classes. Oh, and French! I would love to learn how to speak Francais.
What’s your favorite treat? Summer: ice-cream. Winter: dark chocolate.
What’s your sign?! Pisces!
What can Reedies do to make you feel more welcome? What would you like from us? Please be patient as I learn your names! I’m working on it, but I still feel totally embarrassed when people are like, “Hi, Jess!” and all I’ve got is, “Heyyyyy!” Yikes! Other than that, invite me to cool stuff you’re doing! I’m excited to become a really involved member of the community.
