Jessica Bryant
Expertise
- DEI
- Student mental health
- Social media trends
- Student political activism
- National higher education data
- Survey reporting
Education
- BA Journalism, Southern Methodist University
Jessica Bryant is a higher education analyst and senior data reporter covering current education trends and issues impacting underserved students. Jessica joined BestColleges as a data reporter in 2021, primarily focused on covering the latest trends in higher education.
Jessica now serves as a senior reporter on BestCollege’s news and research teams where she writes and edits data-backed stories on student aid, student activism, mental health, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Jessica’s coverage of anti-DEI legislation and student protest encampments has been cited by top-tier news publishers like The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and more.
Jessica also helps create BestColleges’ proprietary education surveys and analyzes survey data. Specifically, she has surfaced critical perspectives on students’ voting beliefs and campus speech.
She has a BA in journalism from Southern Methodist University and previously worked as a data reporter and researcher with the South Florida Business Journal. She has also served as a researcher for The Trust Project, an organization dedicated to setting ethical standards in journalism.
Media Mentions
- Business Insider interviews Jessica Bryant on the impact of Roe v. Wade’s overturning on students’ college search.
- Forbes interviews Jessica Bryant on the impact of Roe V. Wade’s overturning on their college decision-making.
- Skift interviews Jessica Bryant on Covid-19 impacting students’ study abroad decisions.
- USA Today interviews Jessica Bryant on the rate of LGBTQ students considering leaving college due to mental health challenges.
- Bloom interviews Jessica Bryant on how to secure student loans.
- The Paul & Jordana Show interviews Jessica Bryant on what not to say to college students struggling with mental health.
Read Jessica Bryant's Latest Articles
Does the College You Go to Matter?
While listing the “right” college on your resume can give you an initial leg up, other factors may matter more when securing a job.
June 27, 2025
Most Expensive Colleges and Universities in the U.S.
The nation's most expensive colleges have sticker prices exceeding $80,000 a year. But their generous financial aid offerings continue to attract new students.
June 25, 2025
Online Learning Statistics
More than 1 in 4 college students take classes completely online. Find statistics and student poll results about online learning in our report.
June 25, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Apply to College?
As tuition increases, even applying to college comes at a cost. How much are college applications? Find out in our report.
June 24, 2025
Adult Learners in Higher Education: Facts & Statistics About Older College Students
Adult learners accounted for 24% of the undergraduate students who enrolled in the U.S. in fall 2023.
June 6, 2025
