A Passion for Public Service Leads Broadwell ’20 to FTC

After developing a strong interest in public service during her time at Hamilton, Eleni Broadwell ’20 has landed a position where she can fully explore that passion. The history major and government minor is working as an honors paralegal at the Federal Trade Commission.

At the FTC, Broadwell's position is within the Bureau of Consumer Protection’s Division of Financial Practices (DFP). In her capacity as an honors paralegal, she will be gaining valuable experience while helping federal attorneys with investigative, pre-litigation, and litigation tasks.                                                                                                                               

“This position was particularly enticing because it involves helping everyday consumers — including students — who have been the victims of fraudulent and deceptive practices,” Broadwell said. “The DFP particularly interested me because it acknowledges the essential role that financial services play in the lives of most Americans.”

Broadwell credits two Hamilton experiences with setting her on her career path.  “I did Hamilton’s Program in Washington, D.C., during the fall semester of 2018, and although I didn’t work as a paralegal, I learned how to navigate the political, social, and urban cultures of the city, which is an important part of any job.”

Additionally, the writing, researching, and professional skills she perfected at her jobs on campus with the Writing Center and the Career Center’s Connect Team prepared her well for a new venture into public service. 

Though she’ll now be learning outside the classroom, Broadwell plans to continue to take her curiosity and drive with her from College Hill to the FTC. “I hope to learn how to be of true service to my national community and to understand the responsibility that government agencies have to hold private companies accountable for their financial practices,” she said.