Jesenia Xiong

Originally from St. Paul, Minnesota and raised in Granite Falls, North Carolina, Jesenia—who goes by Jess—is a first-generation college student majoring in Pre-Biology with an optometry track. She aspires to continue her education in optometry school, where she can earn her OD and pursue a career as a licensed optometrist. Through her career, Jess hopes to give back to her community by helping others and providing quality care. At UNC Charlotte, Jess brings both leadership and compassion into her involvement on campus. She serves on the executive board of Coloring 4 Chemo, a student-led nonprofit dedicated to creating uplifting cards for children undergoing chemotherapy in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area. She is also a peer tutor with the University Center for Academic Excellence, where she finds joy in helping her peers succeed. Jess looks forward to embracing academic challenges while building a strong network of leaders and community advocates. Beyond her studies, Jess finds balance and creativity in her hobbies. She enjoys playing tennis, reading, dancing, baking, and planning events—always looking for ways to bring people together.