Jasmine Jackson, an inspiring figure in the legal world, has always felt a unique connection to Martin Luther King Jr. due to their shared birthday, January 15. This serendipitous link has fueled her lifelong passion for justice and advocacy. From her early years, Jasmine harbored an unwavering ambition to become a lawyer, one that she describes as “set in stone since birth.” Jackson told American University.
Her academic journey began at the University of North Carolina, where she delved into political science and the complexities of peace, war, and defense. This foundation laid the groundwork for her future pursuits, including a transformative experience in the Scholars Program at the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). Relocating to Washington, D.C., she found herself in the heart of the nation’s political landscape, further igniting her desire to champion justice. It was this drive that led her to apply to American University Washington College of Law (AUWCL).
Jasmine’s decision to attend AUWCL was influenced by her initial aspiration to study there for her undergraduate degree, which was ultimately swayed by her mother’s desire for her to remain closer to home. Nevertheless, the allure of AUWCL’s nationally ranked part-time program and the prospect of valuable networking opportunities in D.C. proved irresistible.
Balancing the demands of law school while working full-time at the DIA was no small feat, but Jasmine tackled it head-on. She became actively involved in the Mock Trial Honor Society, honing her legal skills even as she navigated the rigors of her career. However, her ambition to immerse herself fully in law school led her to make a bold decision: she requested a leave of absence from the DIA to transition to full-time student status for her final year. Despite starting as a part-time student, Jasmine maximized her academic potential by taking on a rigorous schedule, including seven summer credits, ultimately achieving her goal of graduating on time.
Financial hurdles loomed large as she sought to support her mortgage while pursuing a legal education. Jasmine took the initiative to secure funding by reaching out to her congressperson and state senator, demonstrating her resourcefulness and determination. Her efforts paid off when she was awarded funding for her education, and she encourages prospective students to think creatively when searching for financial assistance, stating, “You never know what award you might receive.”
Jasmine’s tenacity and commitment to her goals bore fruit as she became a recipient of the Sarita & Claire Foundation Scholarship, which supports young Black women dedicated to public service. This scholarship not only aided her during law school but also assists awardees during their attempts to pass the Bar Exam. In July 2023, Jasmine proudly passed the Maryland Bar Exam, culminating her legal education journey that began with such fierce determination.
With her Juris Doctor degree, she then embarked on her career as an entry-level attorney at the Department of Justice through their prestigious honours program, ready to make her mark in the legal world.
