Hello lovelies,
Today we will be discussing life before law school. While it is easy to jump ahead and want to understand and think about finally being in law school, life pre-law is part of the journey to get there. With that being said, I have prepared a list of the 10 most important and relevant things for you to do during your pre-law journey. Some of these items are simple and perhaps intuitive, while others may be new to you. This list is designed to give you some ideas and tips for preparing yourself during this pre-law journey you embark upon. Without further ado, here is your pre-law guide to preparing for the legal field.
1. Maintain a high GPA
Grades. Grades. Grades. Yes, I know. You’ve been in school for years and all anyone seems to talk about is grades. Well, they are quite important. Your law school application will consist of different components and your grades comprise of a large segment. As you may already know, law school has no prerequisite for your degree. Therefore, choose a degree that allows you to get good grades. This is a foolproof way to ensure successful grades. What is a high GPA? Well, that depends on the school you like to go to. Each school will have GPA requirements, so make sure you have an idea of where you need to be and get those grades! Overall, grades are not the end all and be all of your application; however, having high grades can allow you to focus on other aspects of your application.
2. Take the LSAT as early as possible
Your LSAT is another large component you will need to complete prior to your legal journey. When it comes to the timing of when exactly to take the test, that is honestly up to you. In my personal experience, I perform best on examinations when I have taken the time to adequately study and prepare. I took my LSAT in the early fall of my third year of university. The thinking behind this timing was to have the summer to study and have sufficient time if I wanted to try again. The reason I suggest taking the LSAT as early as possible is so that you are able to retake it if need be and to also get it out of the way so you can focus on other aspects of your application and undergraduate degree.
3. Pursue leadership opportunities
Your pre-law experience is a great time to begin to put yourself in positions of power and leadership. This can range from a club or society at school to a community organization. Being in these positions will allow you to feel comfortable, build confidence, and bolster your resume. You want to strive to be a well-rounded individual, so don’t limit yourself exclusively to pre-law or legal-related leadership positions. While I am not discouraging it, remember that differences make you stand out.
4. Develop strong reading and writing skills
Law school will have limitless reading and writing throughout its rigorous program. Therefore, do yourself a favour and hone in on these skills. You can do so through independent practice or by taking a class that includes substantial reading and writing. Legal writing is a skill you will work to develop throughout your legal journey; however, basic writing and grammar are skills you want to ensure you excel at.
5. Network with lawyers and other legal professionals
Networking can certainly be a daunting task for some, but, with practice and the right process, you can become a pro in no time. There are also so many benefits to networking that can open up so many doors for your future career. Start small with your peers and build on those connections. Use those around you, see who they follow on LinkedIn, find local lawyers and firms, and attend networking events. There are so many ways in which you can network, and these connections can lead you to new opportunities and connections that will be instrumental in your career.
6. Enroll into novel programs
Your undergraduate years will allow you to take a range of classes, some of which pertain to your degree, and electives that peak your interest. Take advantage of this, as in law school, these choices will definitely change in nature. In my second year, I took an international development class that expanded my perspective on coloniality and Western modes of thinking. Not only did I learn so much, I made lasting connections, and I also had a lot of fun! These experiences can open you up to knowledge that will help you grow and diversify your understanding of numerous topics.
7. Stay informed on legal issues locally and globally
If you do not take classes on legal subject matter, you may not come across this information unless you look for it yourself. I strongly encourage that you use this time to develop your understanding by keeping abreast of legal issues around you. Whether this is municipal, federal, or even international, this will give you a good sense of legal writing, legal jargon, and a basic understanding of how the law is changing.
8. Edit your resume
Your resume is often the first thing future employers and schools will see that gives a glimpse into your professional and academic career. Your resume should highlight your education as well as your skills and accomplishments. In addition to editing your resume, use this time to add to it by completing certifications, courses, or accomplishments that set you apart. Use this time to perfect your resume to give yourself the best chance at success.
9. Develop strong time-management and coping skills
You have likely had a taste of busyness and the need to multitask and manage your time well in your academic career thus far. Use this time to prepare yourself and find a routine that works for you. Create a schedule and skills that can help you get through times of stress and busyness. Also, as a psychology student, I would be remiss to leave out the importance of mental health and coping skills. The transition from undergrad to law school can and will be daunting if you let it. Use the time now to put measures in place for how to handle difficult situations. Create a self-care routine and community that will help you practice positive coping skills to make this journey not only bearable but even exciting!
10. Reflect on your end goals
Right now, you are on a pre-law path; this can be a traditional or untraditional route. You do not need to know exactly what title or position you want to hold, but you should at the very least have a sense of direction for what you do want. Take a look at the people in positions that you might like to be in and get a sense of what they are doing, how they got there, and how you can do it too. Your path does not need to look like anyone else’s; it is your path and your legacy, so make it what you want it to be.
I hope that these tips were helpful as you embark on this pre-law journey. Be sure to check out the other articles and Pinterest account for more inspirations, tips, and advice.
Thanks you for taking the time to read and don’t forget to comment and engage below with the BCIL community!
Until next time,
Cahlia
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