This post was written by Hatchet reporter Jeffrey Williams

Alumna and executive producer of ABC’s new television series “Scandal” took questions from students Tuesday following an early screening of the show, which was inspired by her career as a D.C. crisis management adviser.

Judy Smith, also a Board of Trustees member, consulted a number of high profile clients in hot water, including former White House intern Monica Lewinsky, NFL quarterback Michael Vick and Supreme Court Chief Justice Clarence Thomas.

About 30 students gathered to premiere the first two episodes of the series before pegging Smith with questions.

The D.C. insider said that in her more than 20 years worth of experience, she generally followed her instincts when consulting clients.

“For me, it’s about the client. It’s about the crisis the client is in and it’s not about me,” Smith said.

The first episode involves a suspected murder who is a decorated soldier, and the second involves the leader of a prostitution ring. The main character, Olivia Pope, who was modeled after Smith, counsels both individuals through their legal battles. Pope is played by Kerry Washington, also an alumna and a Board of Trustees member.

But Smith was quick to point out discrepancies.

“First off, I didn’t sleep with the president,” she said.

When asked about her entry to the consulting field, Smith said she became involved “by coincidence.” She said she originally planned to work at a law firm in New York, but ultimately ended up working for the Iran-Contra investigation – work that then propelled her into the industry.

“Scandal” premieres on ABC April 5.