Jessica is an MSFS student with a concentration in Global Politics and Security, focusing on international migration and refugee situations. In particular, she is interested in the securitization of migration and borders and international law and governance regarding humanitarian protection. Prior to coming to Georgetown, she worked for six years (2016-2022) at the Migration Policy Institute in Washington, DC, researching migration patterns at the U.S.-Mexico border, extracontinental migration in the Americas, U.S. asylum issues, and regional responses to Venezuelan migration. She graduated in 2016 from Kenyon College with a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies and Spanish Area Studies, focusing on U.S. relations with Latin America, particularly with Cuba.

"I chose MSFS for its focus on preparing us to be effective international leaders and policymakers, and its excellent faculty of both practitioners and academics."

Publications

Selected Publications: Bolter, J. (2021). It Is Too Simple to Call 2021 a Record Year for Migration at the U.S.-Mexico Border. migrationpolicy.org. Read it here.

Bolter, J. (2022, January 6). Immigration Has Been a Defining, Often Contentious, Element Throughout U.S. History. Migration Information Source. Read it here.  

Bolter, J., Chishti, M., & Meissner, D. (2021). Back on the Table: U.S. Legalization and the Unauthorized Immigrant Groups that Could Factor in the Debate. Washington, DC: Migration Policy Institute. Read it here. 

Bolter, J., Israel, E., & Pierce, S. (2022). Four Years of Profound Change: Immigration Policy during the Trump Presidency. Washington, DC: Migration Policy Institute. https://www.migrationpolicy.org/research/four-years-change-immigration-trump Chishti, M., & Bolter, J. (2022, May 25,). Rise in Maritime Migration to the United States Is a Reminder of Chapters Past. Migration Information Source. Read it here. 

Selee, A., & Bolter, J. (2022). Colombia's open-door policy: An innovative approach to displacement? International Migration, 60(1), 113-131. 10.1111/imig.12839 Yates, C., &

Bolter, J. (2021). African Migration through the Americas: Drivers, Routes, and Policy Responses. Washington, DC: Migration Policy Institute. Read it here.