Bethany Niman

Bethany Niman - I am a first-generation, non-traditional law student at the University of Montana. After only getting a 6th-grade education, I did not think that college was possible for me. The laws changed and I could not get financial aid without a GED, which I was convinced was impossible. Finally, at 31 years old, my work situation suddenly changed and I decided I was done letting fear dictate my future. So I took my GED and passed! The same day, I enrolled at the local community college, filed for financial aid, and applied to join the TRIO program! Eight weeks later, I started on a journey that would forever change my life in the best possible way. I graduated from community college and was asked to be the keynote speaker at graduation (a first at my school). I went on to a four-year university where I got a Bachelors's in Psychology. During this time I thought I would be headed for Ph.D. in psychology, but God had other plans for me. I was accepted into the Law program at UMT, which meant moving 1600 miles away and starting over with my family in a new state! I am 10 weeks into this new journey and I am determined to help my fellow first-generation law students get the support and advocacy they need and deserve. 

When I am not at school, I am racing with my husband of sixteen years and spending time outdoors with my eleven-year-old son! We have one cat, Tigger, and a fifteen-year-old dog, Milo. My life is full of love and support from my little family and I could not ask for more.