Rose Parade 2024: Meet Jessica Powell, Rose Court princess
As a youngster Rose Court Princess Jessica Powell bounced between career interests, seeking the same passion she witnessed in her parents.
“My parents both love learning in an academic environment,” she said. “My dad taught each of his kids about history and my mom is also a huge writer. I think they are kind of the reason why I’m totally willing and planning to earn a Phd because I also love learning so much.”
A senior at Flintridge Preparatory, Powell said she has found her path to biology, which includes interning with the Huntington Medical Research Institutes ahead of an undergrad program.
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For the past year, Powell was in the lab studying genetics.
This, she said, has sparked her interest in biological research and medicine.
“I am applying anywhere that has a great science program,” she added. “The UCs are definitely in mind.”
Even with a heavy focus in academics, the Pasadena resident said the Lake Avenue Church and local community are a major part of her upbringing.
While she and her family volunteer at Stars, a youth mentorship group in Pasadena, she said the direct action that the Rose Court has participated in has been especially impactful for her.
“I think the fact that there are so many opportunities to help here in Pasadena is really awesome, she said. “My family also really prioritizes having us help out the community. It’s a running joke that we are always the last to leave a function because we’re the group helping to clean up.”
But she also can rock as much as the next Swiftie.
Ahead of the Rose Parade, she has been jamming out to Taylor Swift. Specifically, she’s replaying “The Archer” off the Lover album. In the same folk-pop vein, she said she’s been listening the somber sounds of Noah Kahan’s latest single, “Everything Everywhere.”
She added that her family’s favorite band is Young the Giant, the indie rock band out of Orange County.
It’s clear that Powell cherishes spending time with others. She started a true crime club on campus, dedicated to presenting the facts and findings of harrowing cases together. Her sport of choice is a team sport, volleyball, and when not splicing genes or volunteering, Powell said she loves visiting Old Town Pasadena with friends.
She said the application process for this year’s Royal Court was as enjoyable as being part of theCourt itself, because it was an experience her friends and her could do together.
“I was lucky enough that my friend also made it to round four,” Powell said. “So, we were able todo this entire thing together, which is really special.
Who: Jessica Powell
School: Flintridge Preparatory
Hometown: Pasadena
Hobbies: Listening to Taylor Swift at moment. (Family’s favorite band is Young the Giant). Avid volunteer. Studying biology. Started a true crime club. Sport of choice is voleyball. Loves being with friends in Old Town Pasadena.