Journey to Esquire: Krystele Antoine’s Path of Growth, Grit, and Gratitude

Introduction

In the vibrant tapestry of future legal professionals, Krystele Antoine stands out as a beacon of perseverance and leadership. As a determined law student at Berry University's Du Andreas School of Law in Orlando, Florida, Krystele’s journey is a testament to the power of growth, grit, and gratitude.

A Leader in Every Sense

Originally hailing from Maryland, Krystele is a first-generation Haitian American who quickly carved out a significant presence on campus. As a third-year law student, or 3L, Krystele holds prominent roles including the presidency of the Caribbean Law Student Association and the position of 3L representative for the Black Law Student Association. Beyond these associations, Krystele is active in various campus organizations, attending events and encouraging others to participate.

Krystele’s influence extends beyond the university; within the Greater Orlando community, she serves as a classroom volunteer at Ivy Lane Elementary School, helping out in a VPK classroom on Fridays. Her commitment doesn’t end there; she also dedicates time as a volunteer income tax site coordinator with the VITA program, managing volunteers and reviewing tax returns.

Embracing the Journey to Esquire

Krystele’s encounter with the Journey to Esquire program began at a Spring 2024 meeting of A PA Business, where she met the program's president, Brielle Bell. This introduction sparked Krystele’s interest and led her to join a program that would soon become instrumental in her law career.

What Krystele appreciates most about Journey to Esquire is its robust support system, offering resources crucial for Bar Prep, alongside a dedicated mentor and coach. As she navigates the demanding world of law school, this support helps prepare her for the challenges of the Bar Exam.

Prioritizing Wellness

Journey to Esquire emphasizes wellness, a concept Krystele found invaluable in balancing the physical and mental demands of her career. Through the teachings of the program’s founder, Krystele learned the importance of breathing and centering herself—a simple, yet powerful tool she plans to use throughout her Bar Prep journey.

Paying Forward the Lessons Learned

The program also ingrained in Krystele the value of paying it forward. After a transformative TED Talk experience, she resolved to introduce the program to other students, especially those from out of state. Meeting regularly with Ms. Hardrick offered personalized guidance that helped Krystele grow personally and professionally.

Looking Ahead

As Krystele reflects on her unexpected but rewarding journey with the program, her confidence in becoming an attorney solidifies. Her immediate goal is to take the Bar Exam in Washington, D.C., and pursue a career in either tax law or juvenile law.

Krystele Antoine emerges not only as a promising future attorney but also as an advocate for programs like Journey to Esquire, which empower students to reach their full potential in the legal profession. Her story is an inspiring reminder of the profound impact of personal growth, grit, and gratitude on shaping successful careers and lives.