Full Circle: Double Rattler Jamesia Jackson’s Journey of Leadership and Legacy at FAMU Law
Jamesia Jackson’s academic journey embodies discipline, determination, and focus, reaching a full-circle moment as she prepares to graduate from Florida A&M University College of Law.
A proud double Rattler, Jackson earned her undergraduate degree in biology pre-med from FAMU before returning to pursue her Juris Doctor, continuing a tradition of academic excellence at an institution that helped shape her foundation.
During her time at the College of Law, Jackson stood out not only for her leadership but also for her consistent academic achievement. She served as Student Bar Association President, President of the Criminal Law Society, and Justice of Phi Alpha Delta while maintaining a rigorous academic schedule and earning several prestigious scholarships. Among these were the Journey to Esquire Bar Scholarship, the Caribbean Bar Association Bar Scholarship, the F. Malcolm Cunningham, Sr. – Holland Scholarship, and the Gwendolyn S. Cherry Endowed Scholarship.
Jamesia Jackson racked up numerous awards and scholarships during her time on the
Hill.
(Photo special to FAMU)
Each award underscored her drive, performance, and preparedness to excel in the legal field.
Proud double Rattler Jamesia Jackson, prepares to graduate from Florida A&M University
College of Law, closing one chapter and opening the door to a future in law and leadership.
(Photo special to FAMU)
As graduation nears, Jackson remains focused on what’s next:
“I plan to pass the Bar on the first attempt and pursue a career at a litigation firm. I am still vacillating between becoming a judge or a prominent political figure—governor, mayor, or POTUS,” she said.
Reflecting on her time in law school, Jamesia shares powerful advice she would give her 1L self:
“Don’t make life harder than it needs to be. You are destined for greatness. Have humility and work harder—this is unlike anything you’ve ever done. Go out for law review; it really does make a difference. It’s okay not to have it all figured out right away. Focus on understanding the big picture, not memorizing every little detail,” she shared.
Jackson continued, adding that she would recommend making time for early outlines, going to office hours, and not self-isolating.
“Your classmates will become your best support system. You’re not in competition with anyone but yourself, and grades aren’t the only measure of success here. Take care of your mental health, ask for help when you need it, and remember you belong here.”
Jamesia Jackson is aiming for the moon, and if she misses (which she will not) she"ll
still be among the stars. (Photo special to FAMU)
When asked how she embodies the College of Law’s “Rattler for Justice” distinction, Jamesia said:
“As a proud student of the College of Law, I embody the distinction of a Rattler for Justice through my unwavering commitment to academic leadership. Being a Rattler for Justice means standing firm in the face of adversity and using the law as a tool and a disciplined practice for change," she said.
I’ve demonstrated this through my roles in student government and academic organizations and through my focus on criminal defense and restorative justice. A Rattler for Justice is not defined by titles but by focus, drive, and preparedness for the legal challenges ahead.”
Now preparing to cross the graduation stage, Jackson’s journey reflects the very essence of what it means to come full circle—returning to FAMU for a second time, stronger, wiser, and more empowered than ever.
Her legacy is etched not just in accolades but in the lives she’s impacted and the path she’s helped pave for future generations. With her eyes set on the courtroom or the campaign trail, Jackson is ready to lead with purpose, power, and pride.
Media Contact:
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
