"I chose Santa Clara because this college is the right fit for me, both academically and athletically," said Jara. "I am intrigued by the small size of this school and that it is a Catholic University. Also, the soccer team's playing style fits my soccer abilities well.
Jara attended Saint Mary's College High School in Berkeley, Calif. where she was coached by Manish Doshi.
As a sophomore Jara was the leading goal scorer in her league with 37 goals and 20 assists. She was named First-Team All-League for her performance both as a sophomore and as a freshman. As a freshman Jara was named Athlete of the Week by the Contra Costa Times.
In 2012 Jara's club team was a semi-finalist in the state cup. The team was ranked No. 1 in the region and the state in both 2011 and 2012 while also being a semi-finalist in the Surf Cup. Her team was a two-time regional champion and won the U18 NorCal Premier State Finals. Her team was a finalist in the Las Vegas College Showcase in 2011.
In her free time, Jara enjoys polkaing saxophone, knitting and hiking.