Tessa grew up in the Capital Region where she attended Maple Hill School and realized her love of history and the law. She proceeded to attend Quinnipiac University where she graduated magna cum laude and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law in Society in 2020.

She then completed her law degree at New York Law School in 2023. She actively participated in mock trials throughout college and law school, winning several awards and taking up leadership positions.

Tessa was previously employed and trained in civil litigation at a private practice law firm in New York City.