Patrick Trinidad
Graduate, Master of Defense and Strategic Studies
Orginally from San Antonio, Patrick Trinidad earned an undergraduate degree from The University of Texas at Austin and a law degree from Creighton University School of Law.
During his undergraduate studies, he became interested in national security affairs and foreign policy and heard about the Master of Defense and Strategic Studies (MDSS) program. The COVID-19 pandemic had just begun and Patrick was on the fence about going to graduate school or law school during this time. However, conversations with his mentor convinced him that completing the Master of Defense and Strategic Studies before attending law school would help him stand out from his peers. The MDSS also provided him with a national security background and helped him land jobs like law clerk with the United States Senate Judiciary Committee Section for Crime and National Security during law school.
Patrick graduated with his MDSS degree in Fall 2021.
Why he enrolled in the program:
I enrolled in this program because I was interested in national security affairs and foreign policy during undergrad. I felt that a graduate degree would increase my chances of future success in these areas.
His experience with online learning:
This was my first experience, but it was perfect because the COVID-19 pandemic had just begun. Thus, as the whole world seemingly stopped, I was able to complete my master’s degree.
My experience was great! Dr. Paul Ashby was extremely helpful and accommodating during my time in the program. Moreover, my professors were extremely engaging and available for further inquiries.
On how this degree has played a part in his employment:
Without my Master of Defense and Strategic Studies I do not know if I would have been prepared for the rigourous interview process or the work that I was tasked with during my employment with the United States Senate Judiciary Committee Section for Crime and National Security.
During my employment there, I handled a wide array of legal issues that ranged from constitutional issues related to presidential war powers to legal issues surrounding intelligence gathering practices of intelligence agencies. I drafted legal memos and briefs; conducted research and editing for bills; assisted staff with preparation for Committee hearings and meetings with leaders from the DOJ, FBI, DEA, and PCLOB; attended hearings & meetings; drafted talking points for Senators; and completed administrative tasks for the Committee.
Repeatedly, I found myself referring back to topics that I learned during my MDSS program as my daily work activities required knowledge that went beyond just a law school education.
On whether he has the support he needs:
I certainly had the support that I needed. Again, Dr. Paul Ashby was integral to the smooth sailing of this program.
What he would say to prospective online students:
I want prospective students to understand that the knowledge you gain in this program can provide you with a foundational understanding of complex geopolitical issues that very few people in general society understand. Furthermore, if you wish to pursue a career in national security, intelligence, foreign policy, or other related fields, this program will give you a solid academic foundation that will set you apart from your peers.
On whether he would enroll in this program again if he had to do things over:
Yes, I would certainly enroll in this program again. I strongly believe that if it were not for me completing this program, I would not have been accepted into law school and would not have been considered for my previous job with the United States Senate Judiciary Committee Section for Crime and National Security.