 She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Cornell University in 1973, a Master of Business Administration from George Washington University in 1975, a Juris Doctor from American University Washington College of Law in 1979, and a Master of Laws from George Washington University Law School in 1984.Prior to her confirmation to the Federal Circuit, Prost had served as a lawyer at the Senate Judiciary Committee from 1993–2001, lastly as Chief Counsel.Although the Republicans were in the minority at the time of Prost's nomination, her eight years of service for the Committee would have ensured that she was well known by all Committee members.