By Collins Saint 

If you didn’t know Cheslie Kryst, I wish you had.

She was the kind of person you remember long after she leaves the room: sharp, radiant, grounded in purpose.

Cheslie was compassion in action.

She was brilliance without ego.

She was joy, justice, and power, all in one.

I first met Cheslie when we were student ambassadors at Wake Forest University School of Law. I was new and nervous; she was poised and practiced. With one luminous smile and a warm hand on mine, she made me feel like I belonged. That was her gift. She had presence, yes, but more importantly, she left you feeling like you were the most important person in the world. She made people feel seen, truly seen, without ever shrinking herself to do it.

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By Tiqeece Brown and Emily Carico

The Young Lawyers Division is excited to announce a game-changing event: the Inaugural First Gen Summit! This summit is more than just a gathering — it’s an opportunity to connect, grow, and empower yourself in your personal and professional journey.

As a first-generation law student or young lawyer, you may have faced challenges that other students haven’t experienced. From navigating law school without a family road map to stepping into the legal profession without a direct support system, you may have had a unique journey. But you’re not alone. This summit is specifically designed to help you overcome these hurdles and build the confidence you need to thrive in your legal career.

What Can You Expect at the First Gen Summit?

At the First Gen Summit, we’ll dive into a range of important topics that will help you not only survive but thrive in the legal world:

• Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: It’s common to feel like you don’t belong, especially when you’re a trailblazer in your family or community. Our sessions will provide strategies to tackle imposter syndrome head-on and remind you that you do belong in the legal field.
• Managing Stress: The legal profession can be demanding, and balancing a career with personal well-being is often a challenge. Learn effective stress-management techniques that you can apply to your daily routine.
• Building Financial Wellness: Financial literacy is key to success, both personally and professionally. Get practical advice on budgeting, student loans, saving, and investing, tailored specifically for young professionals.
• Using Social Media for Business Growth: In today’s digital world, building a professional presence online can open doors and attract opportunities. Learn how to leverage social media to enhance your career and grow your legal practice.

Fun and Meaningful Team-Building Activities

The summit isn’t all about sitting in seminars. We’ve included engaging team-building activities that will help you connect with your peers in a meaningful way. Whether you’re working through challenges together or just having fun, these activities will leave you feeling more connected and supported.

Inspiring Speakers Who Understand Your Journey

You’ll hear from a lineup of inspiring speakers who have walked the path you’re on. These thought leaders, mentors, and successful legal professionals will share their stories, insights and advice to empower you to take charge of your future.

Who Should Attend?

The First Gen Summit is perfect for first-generation law students, young lawyers, and anyone interested in personal and professional growth. If you’re navigating the complexities of being a first gen in the legal world, this event is tailored for you. We’re here to provide you with the tools, resources, and support you need to succeed. Whether you’re just starting law school or already practicing, the summit offers invaluable insights that will help you build the skills to flourish.

Leave Feeling Connected, Confident, and Ready to Take on the World

By the end of the summit, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to take on whatever comes next. You’ll leave feeling more connected to your peers, empowered by the tools you’ve gained, and inspired by the stories and advice shared by our amazing speakers.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to invest in yourself and your future. Join us at the Inaugural First Gen Summit — we can’t wait to see you there!

Who: First Generation Law Students | Young Lawyers | Anyone interested in professional and personal growth.

What: First Generation Summit

Where: Camp Weaver, 4924 Tapawingo Trail | Greensboro

When: April 11, 2025 | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Why: You need tools to succeed and navigate the complexities of being a first-generation law student.

Register here.

CO-Chairs: Emily Carico and Tiqeece Brown

 

By Mary Beth Davis, Matt Meinel and Tae Storr

Do you have time to grab a cup of coffee? Instead of taking this one to-go, how about spending thirty meaningful minutes with a future lawyer?

A half hour of your time is all we need to make this program a success! We are seeking attorney volunteers to connect with a law student and pass on the valuable insights you have about succeeding in law school and entering the practice of law. If you would like to volunteer, please fill out this attorney sign-up form (law students can sign up with this student sign-up form). If you have signed up during a previous GaC session, you will need to sign up again.

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By Erin Winters 

Do you have questions about law school debt? Are you a law school student and want a look at how student debt can affect you? Are you a young lawyer interested in learning about your options on managing and handling law school debt? Well, we have a free webinar to help guide you through those questions!

The ABA Young Lawyers and Law Student Divisions are co-sponsoring a complimentary webinar on law school debt in collaboration with the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar. The webinar is scheduled for Thursday, December 12, at 1 p.m. CST. You will see a few of your YLD leaders are participating as panelists, and we hope you will join us!

For more information and to register, visit: https://www.americanbar.org/events-cle/mtg/web/447540327/.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Erin Winters, Section Director, Section of Legal Ed at Erin.Winters@american.