Michelle grew up in the Washington, DC area and graduated with honors from George Mason University, receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in English/Writing. She earned a Master's degree in Educational Psychology, with distinction, from the University of Virginia, and her law degree from American University – Washington College of Law. While in law school, Michelle founded the student chapter of the Animal Legal Defense Fund, and completed her legal internship at Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. Michelle also spearheaded the successful campaign to add an Animal Law course to her law school's curriculum.