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Jessica Rabb

  • Hometown

    Nashville, TN (South)

  • Quick Intro

    After graduating from Swarthmore College, I began my teaching career with the University of Mississippi's School of Education and the Mississippi Teacher Corps. A passion for biology then led me to graduate studies at Harvard University, but my true calling was in teaching rather than research. For the past fifteen years, I have taught biology at Nashville State Community College, where I currently teach Biology I—a foundational course covering cellular biology, energy processes, genetics, evolution, and ecology for both science and non-science majors. My teaching philosophy emphasizes active and engaging learning both inside and outside the classroom. In addition to biology, I lead our first-year experience class, committed to fostering a growth mindset, sense of purpose, and belonging among first-time college students. I teach in-person, virtual, and online formats and am also involved in dual enrollment and educational programs for incarcerated students.
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  2. Jessica Rabb, Ph.D.

Jessica has a bachelor's in biology from Swarthmore College, a master's in secondary education from the University of Mississippi (Mississippi Teacher Corps), and a Ph.D. in biological sciences of public health from Harvard University. She joined the SOE Board of Advisors in Fall 2024. 

What led you to want to serve on the School of Education Board of Advisors?

I love my job as a teacher and it all started because of the School of Education. I want to help School of Education students start their careers successfully.

Why did you choose to attend UM and the School of Education?

I was accepted into the Mississippi Teacher Corps and thrilled to find that it meant I could attend the School of Education. I had the drive to teach but not the experience nor training to do so.

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Tell us about your favorite professor(s) at the School of Education? How did they make a positive impact on your professional and personal pursuits?

My favorite times were learning from local teachers in the Oxford public schools. Their love of teaching inspired me and provided me with confidence on my first day in the classroom as a full-time teacher.

Tell us about your proudest moment in education.

I am proud that I continue to be a teacher, and I continue to try and be a better teacher.

Do you have any advice for our current students?

There is no more rewarding job than teaching. That helps when it is also the hardest job. A degree in education will help you and your students.

Learn More from Jessica!

From the VC's Shelf Podcast: Building Good Habits & Breaking Bad Ones – with guest Jessica Rabb (Nashville State)

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