Drew Mammel

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Drew Mammel (Paralegal)

  1. During which years were you an active member of BPA?
    I was active with BPA from 2013 to 2017. I had the privilege of serving as National secondary president, Montana state president, Montana state communications director, and chapter president.

  2. What was your most memorable moment or achievement during your time in BPA, and why does it stand out to you?
    While serving as a national officer was certainly a momentous achievement for me and required much dedication, I would actually say my most memorable achievement was placing second for the entrepreneurship competition at Nationals. When I think back on all of the work and creativity required of me to write and present my business plan, I am reminded of how much it taught me about what I was capable of doing and imagining. Entrepreneurship was my favorite competition, and I think the confidence it gave me served me well in other activities, both in BPA and outside of BPA.

  3. Can you share your current profession and how your experience with BPA shaped your career path?
    I'm currently a paralegal for an environmental law firm. One of my business plans for the BPA entrepreneurship competition was actually a renewable energy development business. Working on that project helped me realize just how interested I was in that field, an interest I took with me to college. BPA certainly prepared me for college, where I studied history and became interested in the law. I intend to go to law school and pursue a career in the legal profession, where I hope to work at the intersection of law and renewable energy development.

  4. In what ways did your involvement in BPA help prepare you for your future? Are there specific skills or experiences that have been particularly valuable?
    BPA taught me the importance of professional networking, which has been an absolutely vital skill for me as I build my early career. Through competitions and serving as an officer, BPA also improved my writing and communication skills, both of which are vital for any career path, although particularly so in the legal profession.

  5. In what ways do you continue to stay connected with BPA, and how has your involvement evolved since graduating?
    I remain close with my teachers, coaches, other officers, and leaders from BPA, and I enjoy catching up with them. I am happy to be part of the alumni group and stay apprised of BPA's events and activities. While I've been busy in school (and then working and traveling since graduating), I would eventually like to serve as a judge for BPA competitions.

  6. What advice or words of wisdom would you offer to current BPA members who are looking to make the most of their experience and prepare for their futures?
    Something I have learned in navigating my career path is that any connections, no matter how seemingly distant or random, can be very meaningful. No matter what field or path you choose, knowing people from diverse walks of life and of varied interests is an important way to broaden your horizons and prepare yourself for your future. While doing well in competitions and honing your skills is important, it's really the people you meet along the way that is BPA's greatest gift. So, don't be afraid to talk to strangers and meet new people. It's wonderful to be part of a group of such skilled and ambitious people; there are friendships you can make that will last a lifetime.