Shreya Patel, Esq.
Attorney Advisor, U.S. Treasury Department
Alma Mater: American University, Washington College of Law
Shreya is an Attorney Advisor at the Office of the Assistant General Counsel (Banking and Finance) for the U.S. Department of Treasury. She provides legal support in advising senior Treasury officials on work related to domestic finance programs and initiatives, including financial regulation and coronavirus relief programs. Shreya received her J.D. from American University Washington College of Law, where she was the student commencement speaker for her graduating class. She received her B.S., cum laude, in political science with a minor in Spanish from Georgia State University.
Get to Know Shreya
My phone always eats first. Follow me on Instagram @oui.hangry!
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self? You are exceptional. It wasn’t too long ago that I was able let go of the imposter syndrome and believe that I belong and I am exceptional. From college to very recently, I always thought I was just lucky to have been given opportunities and get to where I am today. I never thought it was because I was capable or worthy, even though I put in hard work. I constantly doubted myself and questioned whether I was deserving of the opportunities and accolades. I have a wonderful mentor who has helped me realize that I belong, am capable, and I am exceptional.
One of my most magical moments with my favorite animal.
Excluding legal/academic accomplishments, what is your proudest achievement? I was on America’s Got Talent in 2010. Prior to law school, I was part of Kruti Dance Academy, a premier Indian dance academy in Atlanta, GA. There was a team of us and we decided to try out for the show for fun. We ended up going to the Orlando and Las Vegas audition but didn’t make it past that. Then, a few months later, once the season started airing, Pierce Morgan wanted to bring us back for the Wild Card show. So, we flew to Los Angeles and performed on live TV.
I interned in Cameroon during my 1L summer and spent my weekends with these beautiful faces.
List one show you “binge-watched” recently, and what was it about the show that captivated your attention?
I just finished binging Yellowstone. This show is about the exploration of the American West, with themes of freedom, justice, and the consequences of violence. It also reminded that America (and this planet) is more than just cities.
If you weren’t in your current position, what would be your “dream job”?
If I wasn’t an attorney, I’d either be an astronaut or a Formula 1 race driver. I love the unknown and vastness of space. I also like cars, especially Formula 1 cars, because they are more than just about getting from point A to B. Cars can be art because so much designing goes into them to maximize their potential. Formula 1 cars have state-of-the-art technology to push the car to its limits and I would love to be the first female Indian driver!