Taking the reins

Name: Madeleine Shirzad ’18

Position: Assistant United States Attorney for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas (Department of Justice)

What brought you to SMU?

I was a fortunate recipient of SMU’s President’s Scholarship. I couldn’t turn down such a generous opportunity. Best decision I ever made!

What did you study and what were you involved in?

I studied English literature. The two biggest roles I held at SMU were the student representative to the Board of Trustees for the Academics Committee and the president of my sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. I was also an orientation leader, which is how I met my husband.

How do you feel SMU prepared you for your career?

Through my involvement at SMU, I learned how to manage my time, exercise judgment and speak persuasively – invaluable skills for someone like me, who manages fast-moving cases and appears in court almost every week.

Why is it important to you to give back to your community on the Young Alumni Board?

Many SMU administrators, professors and students invested their time and energy into creating my unforgettable university experience. Not only that, but in my current job, I see the benefits that SMU provides to the city of Dallas. I want to contribute to something that continues to make my life, and our community, better.

What are you most looking forward to as the incoming chair?

The ACC! The Dallas Young Alumni Chapter. Passport to Alumni. An idea or two I have about attracting young alumni to events. And reuniting with SMU’s impressive students and graduates.

What has been your most fun experience as a young alumna?

Coming back to SMU in 2019 to a football team with a 10-3 record and an 8-0 undefeated start to the season. When I was a first year at SMU, the team record was something like 1-11. Oh, how times have changed!