Alexandrea Smith
Alexandrea Smith is a Juris Doctor candidate at the University of Florida Levin College of Law, where she is building on nearly twelve years of experience in the criminal justice and legal fields. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Saint Louis University and has developed a strong academic foundation grounded in research, critical analysis, and advocacy. Her legal interests are deeply informed by her lived experience and long-standing commitment to service. A veteran of the United States Air Force, Alexandrea served in multiple roles, including Paralegal, where she conducted legal reviews, drafted official documents, adjudicated tort claims, and managed a non-judicial punishment division. During her service, she helped design and implement a new management system that improved the efficiency of base-wide legal operations and led education and training initiatives for Air Force personnel. Earlier in her career, she managed multimillion-dollar assets, supported mission-critical aircraft operations, and deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, experiences that sharpened her leadership, accountability, and operational insight. Today, Alexandrea is focused on advocacy for veterans and addressing sexual assault in the military, an area in which she is conducting independent research with plans to publish. She served as President of the National Society of Leadership and Success and currently serves as Vice President of her law school’s Military and Veterans Law Association, reflecting her dedication to leadership and community engagement. In 2026, she will further expand her practical experience as a 2L Summer Legal Intern with The Virga Law Firm, and she has been selected as one of the Influential Women representing Gainesville, Florida—an acknowledgment of her growing impact as a legal advocate and emerging leader.
• Saint Louis University- B.A.
• Southern New Hampshire University- Bachelor's
• Judge Advocate General School - Maxwell Gunter AFB
• Materials Management - Lackland AFB
• U.S. Air Force
• Military and Veterans Law Association
• John Marshall Bar Association
• Operation 300
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the guidance of an exceptional high school mentor, Madison Sewell, a federal prosecutor who recognized my potential and encouraged me to pursue a career in law. His belief in me ignited the passion and confidence that continue to drive my commitment to justice and advocacy.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
It’s never too late to pursue a career you’re passionate about—believe in yourself, stay focused on your goals, and don’t let anyone else’s doubts or opinions hold you back from chasing your dreams.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field is addressing the high prevalence of sexual assault within the military, an issue that remains largely invisible and urgently requires meaningful policy reform and increased public awareness.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are advocacy for victims, service to others, and using my voice to create meaningful policy change and public awareness. In my personal life, I value presence and creativity—especially spending quality time with my seven-year-old son and expressing myself through painting.
Locations
University of Florida - Fredric G. Levin College of Law
309 Village Drive, Gainesville, FL 32611
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