There are so many factors that go into a successful application cycle to law school. Your GPA, your test scores, your essays and your recommendations are all very important.
But the most important decision of all is…..should you go to law school?
This is not a decision to be taken lightly, as you know. It is three years long and all-consuming for much of those three years (at least for the first year!) So, before you apply, how do you know for sure that you should go?
I often find that when people can’t make decisions, they need more information. Here are some ways to inform yourself before you make this big decision:
Consider taking a year off before applying to work in a law firm: There is no better experience in my mind than to have the experience of working at a law firm for an entire year to see how the legal profession operates, talk to other lawyers and see them at work. If you are a senior, don’t apply to law school now just because you are afraid you won’t find a job. There are many legal assistant positions nationwide, as well as other legal positions in government and at nonprofits.
Do more than one legal internship: During junior and senior years, especially, there are many opportunities to do internships, often for academic credit. Try to work at a law firm. Then try a government agency. Or a political campaign. Or a nonprofit. Put yourself in different environments and see how you feel.
Join several pre-law clubs on campus: Try to see if there is a pre-law society club you can join. Also, consider trying out for the Mock trial team. Some schools now also have undergraduate law reviews. Get involved, see what it is like and talk to other pre-law students.
Take law-related classes: You do not have to major in pre-law or political science to apply to law school. It’s fine to major in whatever interest you. However, to help you make the decision it’s very helpful to at least take a few electives that are law related. Look in departments such as political science and sociology for examples of law-related classes that may be offered at your school. If there is also a law school on your campus, take opportunities to attend events there and talk to law students.
Understand the career paths available to lawyers: Based on the media, many students are interested in criminal law and entertainment law, as well as litigation. There are so many other legal practice areas. There is corporate law. There is international law, environmental law, elder law, real estate law and maritime law. There are probably hundreds of choices. It is a good idea to research some of them before applying.
If you are sure about your decision, apply now. If you have doubts, join the many applicants who take time off for professional development to work in a legal environment. By the end of that time, hopefully, your decision will be clear. It’s also nice to have an academic break between college and starting law school.
Hillary Mantis works with pre-law students, law students and lawyers. She is Assistant Dean of the pre-law advising program at Fordham University and author of career books. Admissions questions? You can reach her at altcareer@aol.com.
