Breaking Barriers in Patent Law: How Chante Campbell Found Her Path Through Patent Pathways®

In this installment of our Patent Pathways® Supporter Spotlight, we’re excited to share the inspiring journey of Chante Campbell, a chemist from Detroit who found her passion in patent law thanks to one of our program’s respected partners. 

Chante earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Chemistry from Howard University. Early in her career, she realized her work had become repetitive, prompting her to seek a more fulfilling path. She returned to school for a Master’s degree to gain confidence and clarity about her future. While discussing options with her professor and mentor, she first learned about patent law—a field that immediately intrigued her. With her mentor’s encouragement, Chante discovered Patent Pathways®, enrolled in the program, and began a transformative journey, which led her to her current position at Dinsmore & Shohl, one of Patent Pathways®’ valuable partner law firms.

Reflecting on her experience, Chante describes it as a “full crash course.” She shares, “I credit Patent Pathways® for so much of my accomplishments in the past year and a half.” The program, she says, “Opened me up to a whole new world of possibilities, a whole new career.”

Chante highlights the program’s robust training, which includes hands-on patent prosecution experience and valuable mentorship opportunities. She praises Patent Pathways®’ connections with leading organizations like Practising Law Institute (PLI) and its exceptional instructors. These resources helped her progress significantly, increasing her patent law knowledge from 40% at the start to 80% by the end of the program.

Mock interview events also played a key role in preparing Chante for the job market. Thanks to her newfound confidence and skills, she received a job offer from Dinsmore & Shohl, a national firm that came across Chante through Patent Pathways®’ resume portal.

When asked about her favorite aspect of working in patent law, Chante says it’s all about “Figuring out the inventions.” She also underscores the importance of the program’s mission: “It’s exposing the underrepresented community.” She sees Patent Pathways® as a program that helps individuals maximize their talents and unlock their potential.

Chante’s advice for those considering the program is simple yet powerful: “Go for it. Be ready to study!”

Her story is a testament to the power of mentorship, education, and determination. Programs like Patent Pathways® are not just about career development but about opening doors and creating opportunities for determined individuals in STEM. Chante’s journey also highlights the significance of our law firm partners like Dinsmore & Shohl, who create valuable opportunities for participants to take the next steps into a real career in patent law.

You can watch Chante’s full interview with Patent Pathways®’ secretary, Richard Watkins, below. 

To learn more about Patent Pathways® and how it can help you embark on a career in patent law, visit www.patentpathways.org.

#InspiringInnovation #PatentLaw #STEMCareers #MentorshipMatters #PatentPathways