For graduating senior Vanessa LaPorte ’25, the flexibility and strong reputation of St. Joseph’s University, New York Online appealed to her most when she decided to continue upon the foundation she has built for a future career in law.
Although she lives on Long Island, LaPorte will graduate this month with a B.S. in Criminal Justice that she earned through the University’s fully online campus. Prior to SJNY Online, LaPorte earned an A.A.S. in Paralegal Studies from Suffolk County Community College (SCCC) in 1993.
After graduating from SCCC, LaPorte began a process service agency that assisted in giving proper notice to individuals required at court. She then went on to work for the Suffolk County Traffic and Parking Violations Agency where she worked her way up, getting promoted to senior traffic court specialist. LaPorte currently serves in the 311 Constituent Affairs Unit of the Suffolk County Executive’s Office, a non-emergency government line providing an easy way to log complaints and questions.
“With the convenience of online classes, St. Joseph’s University, New York Online made working full-time and going back to school achievable,” said LaPorte. “I’ve always had a passion for law and aspirations of becoming a lawyer but opportunities along the way took me on a different path.”
LaPorte draws her greatest inspiration from her daughter, who she describes as both her motivation and her biggest cheerleader. However, her drive goes beyond that. LaPorte is deeply inspired by those who feel unheard or overlooked. She is passionate about becoming a voice for the voiceless, standing up for individuals who need someone in their corner, and working to right the wrongs they’ve experienced. After graduation, LaPorte plans to take the LSATs and attend law school.
“As an older student, I get to share different perspectives with the younger students,” she said. “My experience at St. Joseph’s has given me the confidence and ambition to succeed. Every professor at St. Joseph’s has left an indelible mark on my journey and each one has contributed something wonderful to the experience.”
LaPorte said she leaves St. Joseph’s feeling that the education she’s received has not only prepared her for the next step in her academic journey, but has strengthened her belief that she can make a difference in the lives of others.
This story is part of OnCampus’ “Class of 2025 – Meet the Grads” series, focusing on the Class of 2025 at St. Joseph’s University, New York.
