Although she maintains her innocence, Smart has conceded that her husband would still be alive if she had not had what she continues to describe as an "affair" with Flynn, a minor. While in prison, Smart has tutored other inmates and has completed two master's degrees with concentrations in literature and legal studies from Mercy College, which were paid for with private funds from Mercy College. Smart became a member of the National Organization for Women, campaigning for rights for women in prison.