Since we were little, we've been asked what we wanted to be when we grew up. While you may have heard common responses like "doctor," "president," "professional athlete," and "movie star," how many little girls have told you they want to be a solicitor general?
Meet Logan Brown, who, ever since middle school, has had a passion for crushing crime. After interning with her district attorney, she pioneered an annual fundraiser at a local rape crisis center, raising more than $20,000 in the first three years. We can't wait to see this collegiette putting bad guys behind bars!
Name: Logan Brown
Age: 20
College: Vanderbilt University
Majors: Human and organizational development
Graduation Year: 2018
Hometown: Eudora, KS
Twitter/Instagram:Loganbrown799
Her Campus: How would you say that your strong will has contributed to your success? How do you believe it will contribute to your success in your future career?
Logan Brown: Perseverance and strong will are two of the largest contributors to my success. I have learned that failures and setbacks are inevitable no matter what I choose to pursue in life. Being willing to work hard and not giving up when obstacles arise has contributed to my success. In addition to working hard, surrounding yourself with people who inspire, support and believe in you is imperative. The largest contributor to any success that I ever had is my family, friends and community. I believe that as long as I continue to follow my dreams and continue to work past obstacles, I will be able to have success in my future career.
HC: Did you have any role models growing up who helped instill your strong sense of right and wrong?
LB: Growing up, I was lucky to have role models in all aspects of my life. My parents have been a great example and have instilled in me a strong sense of right and wrong. Throughout my life, my mom has encouraged and challenged me to view situations from the perspective of others and give back to my community. My dad is always true to himself and holds to his convictions no matter the situation. They have both been the most important role models in my life.
The Douglas County District Attorney’s Office, the Lawrence Police Department and several community organizations have opened up their doors to let me interact with the criminal justice system firsthand. I look up to many of the officers, attorneys and staff members at the office. Seeing real life examples of injustice as well as individuals coming together in the aftermath has had an immeasurable impact in my life.
I’ve also had phenomenal educators in my life. My AP Government and Politics teacher and my high school counselor both supported my goals, provided me with guidance and taught me many life lessons.
HC: What initially intrigued you about the criminal justice system? How has your view changed over the years?
LB: After learning about the criminal justice system in my 7th grade class and seeing how it was depicted on television, I wanted to know more about how the process actually worked. I checked out several books from the library about famous criminal trials. Now that I’ve experienced the criminal justice system firsthand, my view has shifted drastically. Television shows often show a simplified, streamlined version of the system when, in reality, it is incredibly complex.
HC: What advice would you give to other collegiettes who have ever been pressured to change their values?
LB: Remind yourself of who you are and what your goals are. Peer pressure is likely to occur, and it’s easy to conform in response. It is difficult to stand up for what think is right when everyone else disagrees, but focusing on the larger picture can provide perspective. I also think it’s important to surround yourself with people who respect you and your choices.
HC: What was your favorite part about interning at the district attorney’s office? What skills did you gain from your experience?
LB: Interning at the district attorney’s office was a central part of my middle school and high school careers, and I learned many invaluable lessons from the experience. My favorite part was working with my mentor, Dolores Mosely, and the employees of the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office. They opened my eyes to the complexities of the criminal justice system and how much a single crime could affect a community. The skills that I gained from my experience are unquantifiable. I learned how to complete many basic office tasks, how to form and explain logical arguments, and became more knowledgeable about the legal system. Through this, I have also been able to get a better understanding about systemic causes of crime. Moreover, I have also learned how to work with and assist victims in the aftermath of a crime.
HC: What are you most looking forward to about studying abroad?
LB: I am so excited to study abroad in Shanghai! I am most looking forward to learning and living in a different culture. I hope that by seeing how others live and their approach to social issues, I will gain a new perspective.
HC: Where do you see yourself five years from now?
LB: My future career plans change almost every day! As of right now, I hope to be finishing up law school and preparing for career in international law in five years. I hope to use my education to both prevent and respond to crime and terrorism throughout the globe.