Career Path of an Advocate Attorney at a Policy Advocacy Nonprofit
Lindsey's career path began with a full scholarship to the Air Force Academy, fueled by a passion for swimming and academics, committing to nine years of service as a US Air Force officer. After leaving military service, they pursued a law degree using the GI Bill, and now works at a policy advocacy nonprofit, demonstrating a diverse career trajectory following "a new mission."
Military Service, Higher Education, Career Transition, Nonprofit, Law
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Lindsey Kirchhoff
Advocate, Attorney, and Swim Coach
Policy Advocacy Nonprofit
US Air Force Academy
Boston College, Master of Arts in Philosophy; Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, Juris Doctor; Pepperdine Law Straus Institute, Master of Dispute Resolution
Anthropology, Sociology
Law
Operations and Project Management
Veteran, Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. Lindsey's career path showcases the value of combining passion (swimming) with academic pursuits (scholarships).
2. Her experience at the Air Force Academy illustrates a unique path to funding higher education and gaining valuable experience.
3. Successfully transitioning from a military career to a civilian career in law demonstrates adaptability and career versatility.
Transcript
Could you walk me through your career path, starting with your experience in college? Did you have any internships or jobs before your current role?
Yes, of course. I grew up in the Midwest, in Missouri. I was very interested in swimming and school; I loved academics. Competitive swimming was a part of my upbringing.
That led me to be offered some scholarships for college to swim at the collegiate level. I decided to go to the Air Force Academy, which is a military service academy in the United States. Everyone there is on full scholarship.
That was a blessing for my family and me because I wasn't sure we would be able to afford college at that time. By going into the Air Force Academy, I committed to serving as an officer in the Air Force. After I graduated, I was an officer in the United States Air Force for about nine years, and I did a variety of different roles.
After that, I decided I wanted to find a new mission. I'm now in my sixth or seventh year since I left military service. I completed a law degree using the GI Bill and have worked at a software company. I also moved to Hawaii for a while and have done many different things, but I'm really happy with where I am right now.