Jesten Slaw

Jesten Slaw

Class of 2022

What undergraduate degree do you have?

B.A. Political Science, The Fort Valley State University
Masters' in Public Administration, Pennsylvania State University

What is your hometown?

I am a proud ATLien. I grew up in and around Atlanta, Georgia but my family is originally from Decatur, Illinois. 

What do you love most about your family?

Our ability to poke fun and laugh at one another as a sign of affection. You have to have tough skin to be a member of our family.

What made you want to serve your country?

My grandfathers, father, uncles and a host of cousins all served in the military. I wouldn't call it the family business; but it certainly made a huge impact on my decision. They have all been so very proud of me being the first commissioned Army officer.

What are you most proud of as a member of the service?

Mentoring and inspiring those around me. You wouldn't believe the amount of friends (family) I have gained through the military. We continue to motivate and inspire each other to be the best of ourselves. 

Why do you want to be a lawyer?

It has been a dream of mine since I was a child. I have always been fond of JFK. Once I figured out he went to law school I was sold. Now that I am older, I want to fight to reform the criminal justice system.

What do you like most about Brandeis?

The sense of family within the students and faculty. People are so helpful. 

In five years, I want to be...

a United States Congressman or running an equal housing non-profit organization. If I'm lucky, I might be able to do both. 

How have you changed since you started law school?

You would have to ask my friends and family. I may think a little differently but I am the same loving, joking, and annoyingly over-analytical guy they remember.

What would you tell a 1L about law school and/or life?

The only difference between success and failure is not giving up. #AllwaysForward never back.

How do you cope when times are challenging:

Honestly, I think of the struggles and disadvantages my ancestors faced. They died for me to have this opportunity. I cannot let them down. No struggle was greater than the former slaves and civil right activists who came before me. 

Your favorite quote: 

It costs you nothing to be kind to others.