Q&A with 1L Jake Hilt, Former U.S. Army Ranger

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, Jake Hilt served as a U.S. Army Ranger and was deployed a total of three times. He recently answered a few questions about his background and his aspirations as he embarks on his legal education here at Minnesota Law.

Welcome to the Minnesota Law class of 2021! You have an interesting background as a U.S. Army Ranger. Could you discuss a little bit about your experience?

Minnesota Law Class of ’21

I served in the U.S. Army’s 3rd Ranger Battalion for four years and was deployed three times to Iraq and once to Afghanistan. Being a Ranger was both challenging and rewarding. It was a tremendous education in leadership and taught me how to remain confident and professional in difficult situations. The people with whom I served and the experiences we had played a significant role in shaping who I am today.

Why did you choose Minnesota Law?

I was initially attracted to Minnesota Law because of its excellent reputation, but the primary reason I chose Minnesota Law is because it provides a broad range of opportunities to be a part of the Minnesota legal community that I ultimately wish to join.

Minnesota Law is also a place known for putting an emphasis on leadership. What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership means taking ownership of outcomes. It means acting in the interest of the greater good and not expecting of others what you do not demand of yourself.

What do you hope to do with your legal education?

I hope to practice corporate law and ultimately help business owners through the challenges of running their organizations.

Being a Ranger … was a tremendous education in leadership and taught me how to remain confident and professional in difficult situations. -Jake Hilt '21

Do you have any interesting hobbies or leisure activities?

I recently tried my hand at woodworking and would love to learn how to fly fish.

What three adjectives describe you best?

Resilient, analytical, and considerate.