She went on to attend the University of Washington, where she earned a degree in Political Science. While at university, Compagno distinguished herself by winning the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps’ Cadet of the Quarter Award—an early sign that her ambition and drive were leading her toward bigger things.
This accomplishment was just the start of her impressive academic journey, which culminated in a Juris Doctor from the University of San Francisco School of Law in 2006—an institution known for its courses in healthcare law, personal injury litigation, and legal liability related to diagnostic testing.
From Law School to NFL Sidelines: The Unlikely Path. Despite her academic achievements, Emily Compagno’s career took an unexpected turn when she chose to pursue a career as an NFL cheerleader while working as a criminal defense attorney.
During her time in San Francisco, Compagno joined the Oakland Raiders’ cheerleading team, the Raiderettes, balancing her demanding legal career with the high-energy world of NFL cheerleading.
Her legal background included cases involving hospital cost disputes, prenatal injury claims, and insurance fraud, giving her a first-hand look into the complexities of healthcare and wellness systems.