Lauren Shumate

Lauren Shumate, Class of 2010 and 2014

October 16, 2018

Lauren graduated from USF with a BA in Criminology and a minor in Political Science in 2010. She also earned an MA from USF in Political Science in 2014. Continuing her education, Lauren then proceeded to graduate with a JD from Notre Dame Law School in 2017. 

During her time as an undergrad, Lauren was deeply involved in global engagement. Lauren was selected to a be a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant in Niš, Serbia from 2011-12. Her primary responsibility was teaching English courses at the University of Niš, Faculty of Philosophy, including vocabulary and debate. She also created an English student newspaper, which a small group of her English students contributed to and was subsequently published online through the Journalism Department and funded by the US Embassy. “Fulbright is truly an invaluable experience," said Lauren. "It is more than just a study abroad trip. It is an opportunity to serve as an ambassador for the United States and to bridge international relationships with your host country.”

Currently, Lauren is practicing law at Gunster, Yoakley, and Stuart in south Florida where she focuses her practice primarily on complex commercial litigation. She credits the career opportunities she’s earned, to her days as a Fulbright scholar. “I feel that the opportunity to be awarded a Fulbright improved my profile and marketability for being accepted to a top national law school and also led to my present employment.”