Be open to pursuing new career paths.
Education: University of Alabama, JD; University of Alabama, BA in philosophy and religious studies
Joined OCC: 2018
What is your professional and educational background?
Following law school, I completed a two-year term as a staff attorney for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. When my term was expiring, I began looking for federal government employment, including honors attorney programs.
What does your day-to-day workday look like?
As a member of the Litigation Group, my day-to-day work varies widely. My assignments range from providing litigation risk analysis and advising the Comptroller on the disposition of enforcement actions, to representing the OCC in a wide variety of cases, including actions arising under the Administrative Procedure Act and Freedom of Information Act, and in administrative personnel litigation.
Why did you choose to work at the OCC?
My initial contacts with OCC staff were encouraging and personable. It’s rare to develop a firm impression of a welcoming environment as a job applicant.
Do you belong to any employee network groups (ENGs)?
I’m a member of The Women’s Network and PRIDE.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy going to concerts and triathlon training.
What would you tell someone just starting out at the OCC?
Be open to pursing new career paths. I never expected to pursue a permanent placement in the Litigation Group, but during my Honor’s Program rotation with the group, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the nature and variety of the assignments. Keep an open mind.