Jessica Bryant

Senior Data Reporter

Contributors/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

Read Jessica Bryant's Latest Articles

Why Is College So Expensive? 5 Reasons

Student loan debt in the U.S. passed the $1.75 trillion mark this year, and while rising tuition may be slowing down, some variables continue to drive up the cost of earning a degree.

May 7, 2025

Elon Musk's DOGE Accessed Student Data. Can Student Loans Be Discharged Through FERPA Complaints?

The viral TikTok loophole to eliminate student debt may not have legal standing, but students can take other steps to protect their educational records.

May 6, 2025

58 Companies That Pay for College With Tuition Reimbursement

From Amazon to Wells Fargo, here are companies that provide tuition assistance to U.S. employees.

May 6, 2025

These States' Anti-DEI Legislation May Impact Higher Education

There are currently more than 30 bills across the U.S. targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at public colleges.

May 6, 2025

Here's How Student Loan Debt Impacts Your Credit Score

Experts explain why borrowers may see substantial drops in their credit scores linked to their student loan debt.

April 24, 2025

Our Editorial Policy and Standards

Accuracy and editorial integrity are just a few of the values we at BestColleges pledge to uphold for the students who rely on us. We are committed to providing students with the educational resources they need to achieve their goals.