Alumni Spotlight: Dominique Emilie

Dominique Emile, is an ADA, at the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office. Early in her professional career Dominique has already achieved significant milestones, including passing the bar and becoming an Assistant District Attorney, where she works to prosecute domestic violence and child sexual abuse criminal cases. Her journey to the courtroom, however, began at Farmingdale State College. 

Dominique majored as a Criminal Justice: Law Enforcement Technology student. It was during her studies when she got introduced to both the criminal justice and legal world. Dominique's interest in law and order is what drew her into law school and eventually pushed her to become an Assistant District Attorney. While at Farmingdale, she developed a mentoring relationship with Dr. Edward Plough, who she states, “was instrumental in honing my writing and analysis skills, and always encouraging me in my dreams.” Dr. Plough was one of the first people who encouraged her to pursue her goals of becoming an attorney. Understanding the dedication required to pursue a career in the legal field he consistently made sure to assist her with anything, when needed and even offered to extend his office hours to ensure Dominique had access to his guidance.

Post graduation Dominique began law school. A challenging journey that she says FSC has truly helped her by providing valuable tools and resources. She also states that Farmingdale helped her to establish a network of professionals, which eventually led to her first internship; a position that dramatically changed her post graduation options. At the age of 25, she had graduated law school, passed the bar exam, and became an attorney. For the past three years Dominique has been an ADA for the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. When asked who inspires her to continue her work she states, “the victims I am able to help inspire me and give me the ability to keep working hard. In particular, children who have been victims of crime tend to be the most inspiring as they are so incredibly resilient.” Her day consists of examining cases, litigating in the courtroom, meeting with victims, and preparing for trails. Her background in criminal justice and the legal field assists her daily, as she works alongside law enforcement daily.

Looking back, Dominique believes the best advice she can give to students pursuing similar career paths is to be open to new experiences despite how intimated they may make you feel and to diversify your resume with extra circulars as much as possible. Dominique's dedication and hard work are what enabled her to become so successful by the age of 25, however, it was her experiences at Farmingdale State College that truly motivated and encouraged her to pursue her dreams.