1L Jessica Bontemps: Coached and Mentored At-Risk Youth in NYC

1L Jessica Bontemps, a first-generation college student in her family, has served as tutor, coach, and mentor to at-risk youth in New York City. She has a B.A. in English Language and Literature from Hunter College and, in addition to being an aspiring lawyer, is an aspiring writer.

Welcome to the Minnesota Law class of 2022! Could you talk a little bit about your experience working with disadvantaged youths in New York City? 

After noticing a need for more after-school programs in New York’s intercity communities, I began coaching baseball/softball with a program called Harlem RBI. I then began mentoring at-risk youth throughout New York City, which was a very rewarding experience.       

You are also a first-gen college student in your family. Could you discuss that a bit and how it impacts what a legal education means to you? 

As a first-generation college student, having the opportunity to pursue a legal education meant having doors open for me that otherwise might not have been. I look forward to having more opportunities to advance in my career and my education.   

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

Leadership means being able to motivate and inspire others to work toward a shared goal. I believe a good leader is always willing to learn and grow and encourages others to do the same.  

What do you hope to do with your legal education?

I plan to work in public policy to help develop courses of action focused on education and improving the public education system.

What three words describe you best? 

Balanced, fun-loving, and tall!