Name: Brittany Patton
Majors: Legal Studies and Community Youth Development
Hometown: Ontario, NY
Graduation Year: 2018
5 Fun Facts:
- I have a dachshund puppy named Bailey!
- I am going to Albany Law School this summer.
- I can say the alphabet backwards in under seven seconds.
- I am a double major in Legal Studies and Community Youth Development!
- I have interned with YMCA Camp Cory, United Way of Greater Rochester, and the Monroe County Public Defender’s Office.
Can you tell us a little about the community youth development and legal studies programs?
In community youth development a big focus area is social and emotional development. This includes various aspects self and social awareness which gives me a different perspective in my legal studies program. The legal studies program at Nazareth had really prepared me to take the next steps towards my goal of becoming a defense attorney. I was able to take courses regarding the fundamentals of criminal law, which really sparked my interest in this field of law. I also completed my internship requirement with public defense attorneys and paralegals which was really what set me on a path towards criminal and family law and advocacy work.
What’s the coolest class you’ve taken in your major(s)?
In the community youth development program, the most interesting class I have taken was the foundations course, Youth Development in Community Settings with Dr. Watkins. This class really laid the framework for the next set of courses. Additionally, this class also counted towards my advocacy concentration in legal studies. My favorite class in legal studies was Introduction to Law which was taught by Nazareth College’s President, Daan Braveman. This was something I feel is really unique and shows the commitment the school has to its students.
What kind of activities/jobs/internships do students in the program participate in?
In both programs, students are required to complete at least one internship. My internships have been at YMCA Camp Cory, United Way of Greater Rochester, and the Monroe County Public Defender’s Office. Something unique to community youth development is the service learning component in every course. Being able to go out into the community really puts theory into practice.
How has the community youth development and legal studies programs sparked your passion?
I found the perfect combination for my educational experience by double majoring in these programs. In CYD we learn not only how to work with youth, but all people in a respectful and intentional way that will build sustained relationships in my future career. By bringing the two together I learned the foundations of the legal system and have a different outlook on how I want to practice law.
What do you plan to do after graduation?
After graduation, I will be moving to Albany to attend law school and pursue a career as a lawyer.
Any advice for incoming freshman in your department?
Bring a pencil. Be authentic with yourself and not be afraid to explore your different interests in order to find what you’re truly passionate about. Good luck!
Post-graduation update: Brittany is preparing to start her third year at Albany Law School in the fall and plans to graduate in May 2021. This summer, she has been working for the NYS Gaming Commission as well as the Rensselaer County District Attorney’s Office.