Gabriella Thurmond (Ithaca, NY) wants to become a lawyer one day. Her path to law school led her to Alfred State where she found a community on and off the court.
Late in the summer, Gabriella changed her mind on her college choice and found Alfred State. “I was looking for a good SUNY school that was close to my hometown, so I'd be able to see my family often while also getting a very affordable education.”
She felt studies in business administration would be a good pathway to law school and into labor and employment law.
“My studies have helped me develop empathy in my leadership skills and realistic objective thinking. Objectiveness in business is very critical, and I think it’s helped me hone the mindset I will need as an attorney.”
Gabriella has enjoyed creating reports and essays centered around complex issues along with developing relationships with the faculty. “I’ve gained a lot of good mentors, and some are even references for my graduate school applications.”
Outside the classroom, Gabriella has kept busy as a student-athlete on the volleyball team, a member and leader in residence life, and as a peer mentor.
“My team has really helped me grow as an individual and brought me a community that I wouldn’t have ever had if I never joined the team.”
Gabriella loves the variety of tranquil places around campus. “My favorite part of Alfred State is the scenery. There are a lot of nice peaceful places you can go to relax. I really enjoy going downtown to the Terra Cotta Coffee House and relaxing by the Bell Tower in Alumni Plaza.”
You can often find Gabriella in the Hinkle Library. “I really like reading. The library brings a sense of peace that most other places can’t bring me.”
Alfred State has been the opening statement to Gabriella’s legal career.