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Community Service and J.P. Morgan: A Q&A with Jackson Dowell, Class of 2026

Community Service and J.P. Morgan: A Q&A with Jackson Dowell, Class of 2026

The Class of 2026 undergraduate discusses her decision to attend Marshall, her extensive community involvement, and how her undergraduate journey led her to J.P. Morgan.

by: Alexander Bernard
05.05.26
Jackson Dowell posing in her graduation sash

Jackson Dowell, Class of 2026, is using her education and career to give back to the community.

[Photo Courtesy of Dowell]

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Whether as a college applicant or a soon-to-be graduate, Jackson Dowell has been community-oriented. She’s volunteered on campus with Marshall Career Services and the Black Business Student Association, while giving back in her own life with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) Los Angeles Affiliate. As she looks forward to post-graduate career at J.P. Morgan, Dowell is reflecting on her own Marshall community, from beloved professors to supportive classmates.

Interviewer: Why did you choose to attend USC Marshall?

Jackson Dowell: Simply put, I wanted to be the best. Throughout my life, I’ve been driven to exceed expectations, whether that be in academics, athletics, or in the roles I hold as a sister, daughter, and friend. That ambition is paired with a deep commitment to creating meaningful social impact.

My interest in business was shaped early on through my internship with the Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce during the post-COVID economic recovery after my junior year of high school. I saw firsthand how businesses can strengthen communities, drive stability, and serve as catalysts for change. That experience solidified my desire to pursue a degree in business and to build a career focused on long-term, impactful change.

As I considered colleges, I looked for an environment that would challenge me academically while supporting my personal growth. I wanted to be surrounded by driven, high-achieving peers and to be part of a vibrant, collaborative community. USC Marshall stood out for its balance of rigorous academics alongside a dynamic campus culture, and the flexibility to explore interdisciplinary interests like journalism and real estate.

Equally important was location. I was drawn to USC’s urban setting and the opportunities it offers beyond campus. But ultimately, it was the people who made the decision clear. After applying to and visiting over 17 schools, my experience at USC, especially during Admitted Students Day, was transformative. I felt genuinely welcomed and valued by students, faculty, and administrators. I could immediately envision myself there. That sense of belonging, combined with the school’s resources and community, made USC Marshall the right choice for me

What surprised you most about your time at USC Marshall?

JD: What surprised me most was how deeply people-driven Marshall is. There’s a common perception that business schools focus on producing highly efficient, results-oriented professionals. While excellence is certainly emphasized, Marshall also prioritizes collaboration, character, and community. My experience has been defined by learning alongside and from my peers. Both inside and outside of Fertitta Hall, I’ve been challenged to grow not just as a student, but as an ethical, thoughtful, and analytical leader. That emphasis on people — on relationships, integrity, and shared growth — has been one of the most meaningful aspects of my time at Marshall.

What faculty and/or courses made the most lasting impression on you?

JD: ECON 351, taught by Professor Alejandro Martinez-Marquina, left a lasting impression on me. It was one of the first rigorous courses I took at Marshall, and while challenging, it helped me build confidence in my academic abilities early on. That confidence carried through the rest of my time at USC. I’m also deeply grateful to Professors Jason Frenn and Zivia Sweeney for their continued guidance and support. Their investment in students extends beyond the classroom, and their mentorship has been invaluable both personally and professionally.

USC gave me not just an education, but a community that challenged me, supported me, and helped me grow into the person I am today.

— Jackson Dowell

BUAD, Class of 2026

What extracurricular activities most shaped your undergraduate experience?

JD: My involvement at USC Marshall has centered on leadership through service, community building, and creating opportunities for others. I currently serve as co-president of the Marshall Student Ambassadors, leading more than 150 ambassadors and a five-person executive board in partnership with the undergraduate admissions office. In this role, I help oversee approximately 30 annual programs for prospective, incoming, and transfer students. My goal has been to ensure that every student considering Marshall feels welcomed, informed, and excited to join the Trojan Family, just as I once did.

Throughout my senior year, I also served as a peer career advisor for Marshall Career Services, supporting students with resume reviews, interview preparation, and career exploration. This role has been especially meaningful because I understand how transformative access to mentorship and guidance can be.

Additionally, I served as president of the Black Business Student Association for two years, leading an executive board and supporting a community of over 80 members. During my tenure, I secured corporate sponsorships to expand programming and professional development opportunities. I helped organize approximately 60 events annually focused on leadership, networking, and inclusion.

My commitment to service extends beyond campus. As corporate teams chair for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) Los Angeles Affiliate, I engage organizations to support fundraising and advocacy efforts. This work is deeply personal as my mother was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer after my freshman year and passed away during my sophomore year. Being involved with PanCAN has allowed me to honor her legacy while raising awareness and supporting others affected by the disease.

Across every role, my goal has been to leave Marshall stronger than I found it by building community, mentoring others, and leading with purpose and integrity.

What achievement are you most proud of from your time as an undergraduate?

JD: I am most proud of my resilience. Throughout my college experience, I’ve faced challenges that tested me both personally and academically. Through it all, I remained committed to growth and continued to show up, improve, and pursue excellence. That perseverance defines my experience more than any single accomplishment.

What is the most important lesson you learned while a student at USC Marshall?

JD: I’ve learned that success comes from alignment. Both individuals and organizations thrive when their actions, values, and goals are aligned. When you operate with clarity of purpose, your decisions become more intentional and your impact more meaningful.

How have you seen the Trojan Family at work in your life?

JD: After losing my mother during my sophomore year, I experienced the Trojan Family in its most genuine form. My professors, advisors — including Tina Nguyen and Black Alumni Association Associate Director Faithe Clairy — and my friends and peers — including Dylan Miller, Payten Briscoe, Winter Chambers, Zaria Calhum, Laila Smith, Elijah Patterson, Ayomide Ajayi, Avery Wilson, Jayla Eloy, Ebony Crandle, Donovan Wood, and many others showed up for me in ways I will never forget. They offered support, compassion, and stability during one of the most difficult times in my life. In the absence of one of the most important people in my life, this community helped uplift me and reminded me that I was not alone. That experience is a testament to what the Trojan Family truly represents.

What are your plans after graduation?

JD: After graduation, I will be returning home to Chicago to join J.P. Morgan as a commercial real estate community development banking analyst. I am passionate about affordable housing and community investment, and I’m excited to contribute to projects that create equitable access to housing and strengthen communities.

What advice would you give another student hoping to follow in your footsteps?

JD: Since my freshman year, I’ve kept a note on my computer that says, “Remember why you’re here.” That reminder has grounded me in my purpose and kept me focused through both challenges and successes. My advice is to challenge yourself, seek out opportunities for growth, and stay connected to your “why.” Growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing new experiences with intention.

Looking back, what will you remember most about your time at USC and Marshall?

JD: I will remember the people. The relationships I built with peers, mentors, professors, and friends have shaped my experience in ways that extend far beyond the classroom. USC gave me not just an education, but a community that challenged me, supported me, and helped me grow into the person I am today.

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