Q&A with 1L Jacky Arness, Former Miss North Dakota
Editor’s Note: This is one of a series of Q&As with incoming Minnesota Law students.
Before enrolling in Minnesota Law's class of 2021, Jacky Arness won the Miss North Dakota title in 2014, and was also named Miss Congeniality by her fellow contestants in the Miss America Pageant. She recently answered a few questions about her background and her aspirations as she embarks on her legal education here at Minnesota Law.
My involvement with the Miss America Organization is one of the most formative experiences of my life. I became involved while I was in college and was hooked after my very first competition. Competing was an outlet for skills that I’d developed and experiences that I’d already had, as well as a way to push myself to be better than my best. The scholarship money I earned and the professional speaking opportunities I had were amazing, but the greatest reward has been the lasting friendships that I’ve developed. The nationwide network of phenomenal women pursuing their passions has both inspired and motivated me to do the same.
Why Minnesota Law? For example, you won Miss Congeniality. Did Minnesota Law’s reputation for collegiality play a part in your decision to come here?
The most important thing to me in selecting a program to commit to was a positive and collaborative environment. I got that feeling right away from Minnesota Law! I'm looking forward to learning with a diverse peer group and from professors who challenge each individual to perform at their highest ability. It was essential for me to find a real community with which to pursue excellence.
Minnesota Law is also a place known for putting an emphasis on leadership. What does leadership mean to you?
Leadership is standing up for what is right, inspiring others to be their best, and the willingness to do what must be done.
What do you hope to do with your legal education?
The opportunities that a legal education provides are multitudinous. It opens so many doors, and I’m thrilled to see what this chapter brings. I’m interested in a diverse range of things including: corporate litigation, diplomacy, public service, business leadership, and more! I’m excited to see where the next three years lead.
Do you have any interesting hobbies or leisure activities?
Hiking, camping, and traveling are among my favorite things to do. I absolutely love exploring new places and being in nature! I love the independence and the self-sufficiency that being in the outdoors requires as well as the clarity and self-awareness that being off the grid provides. Experiencing new cultures and traditions is what motivates me to keep broadening my horizons and exploring the world!
What three adjectives describe you best?
Tenacious, loyal, and adventurous.
What else would you like to share with the Minnesota Law community about yourself and your aspirations?
I couldn’t be more thrilled to start this journey! As I’m sure is the case for many of my peers, the decision to attend law school was one I believe to be instrumental in building my future. I feel gratitude for this opportunity and I'm proud to be a part of the University of Minnesota Law School Class of 2021!
