Fall semester has officially begun, and Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ Law is looking forward to welcoming the incoming class of new students. Over the next few weeks, we will be highlighting some of our incredible 1Ls through a series of brief profiles! For our next student spotlight, meet Tessa Bailon (she/her/ella).ÌýÌý
Born and raised in Denver, Tessa earned her bachelor's degree at Regis University in Denver.Ìý
What inspired you to pursue a law degree?Ìý
TB: During my senior year of high school, I was uncertain about my career path and was looking for something that would spark my passion. I was assigned to read Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson for my civics class, and as I read, I realized I could see myself doing meaningful work similar to Stevenson’s. It became clear to me then that I wanted to dedicate my work to seeking justice for marginalized communities and I believe pursuing a law degree is a great first step to ensure I can do just that.ÌýÌý
What are your hobbies outside of work and school?Ìý
TB: Outside of law school, I enjoy spending time on my family's farm. It’s soothing to watch chickens eat and sheep graze. I also love dancing to reggaeton, norteñas, and trending rap. I find dancing to be a healthy and enjoyable way to stay active and socialize with friends.Ìý
What is your educational background and/or what was your career before deciding to come to law school?Ìý
TB: Shortly after graduation, I served as a Jesuit Volunteer with AmeriCorps in Tacoma, Washington, working at the Northwest Immigrants Rights Project as an Intake Coordinator for the Asylum Unit. I then participated in a Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ Capitol fellowship with the Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ Latino Leadership Advocacy and Research Organization, collaborating with a grassroots lobbying firm focused on impactful legislation in economic justice, birth justice, and immigrant rights. After the fellowship, I worked at Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ Legal Services in the Migrant and Farm Worker Unit as an Outreach Coordinator/Paralegal, where I conducted outreach to farm workers across the state, educating them about their rights as H2A visa holders and Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ agricultural workers.Ìý
Why did you choose Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ Law?Ìý
TB: I chose Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ Law because, after visiting the campus for an economic justice summit, it felt right. Sitting in the classrooms, I could envision myself as a future Buff Law student. I also love Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ, and Å·ÃÀ¿Ú±¬ÊÓƵ Law felt both new and familiar, like home.Ìý
What are you most looking forward to this upcoming academic year?ÌýÌý
TB: I’m looking forward to meeting lifelong friends and learning from amazing professors. I’m also excited to immerse myself in the classroom environment, absorbing knowledge and engaging in the learning process.Ìý
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