Jazmin Jackson had always wanted to represent the Dominican Republic, her family's home country. 

After a tough recruitment process, Jackson found out she had made the U19 team and was selected to represent the Dominican Republic at the UNCAF FIFA FORWARD Women's U19 Tournament in Honduras this past March.

"I was nervous because it was a very long recruiting process," Jackson said. "But finally getting that message that I was going with them to Honduras eased my nerves."

Jackson's time with the team was the first time she has ever spent in the Dominican Republic.

"The first night we stayed with one of the girls [on the team] that lives here," Jackson said. "We get to explore, try new things, and experience my culture."

Jackson says her time overseas has provided her with new challenges that she did not experience in high school.

"Being away from home for such a long time," Jackson said. "Learning how to play with new girls and a new coaching style as well."

The language barrier has also provided some challenges for Jackson, not being a fluent Spanish speaker.

"Playing for my country has always been a goal of mine and now it's finally a dream come true," Jackson said.

A soon-to-be incoming freshman for the Rams as part of the 2023 recruiting class, Jackson started in every game of the tournament for the U19 national team. In the fifth-place match against Guatemala, Jackson netted two goals to help the Dominican Republic to a 3-1 victory.

Her two goals left her tied for third-most at the eight-team tournament and after her successful run on the U19 team, Jackson earned the call-up to the U20 team for the CONCACAF U20 Championship in the Dominican Republic.

"When I found out, I was super relieved and so excited," Jackson said. "This is a dream for me, to represent my country. We're not really known for soccer so getting to help in any way I can, it means a lot to me." 

Jackson, who was born in Montgomery, Md., went to high school at Osborn Park in Woodbridge, Va. where she was a First Team All-District and All-MET Team selection. Jackson also won the Osbourn Park MVP award.

Now armed with international experience, Jackson believes her time has prepared her well for the upcoming fall season at VCU. 

"I had to adjust to playing with a completely new team in a new location," Jackson said. "The way they play is very different from how I play in the United States. Learning how to handle change and push through adversity is definitely something that is going to help me at VCU. "