Thinking About Applying to Law School? Check Out This Advice

Considering applying to law school? Keep reading for candid advice.

Applying to law school is a big decision, both financially and personally. The law school admissions process can be daunting if you don’t know any lawyers (and even if you do). I asked some of my fellow lawyer friends what they would tell someone considering applying to law school. This is what they said:

1. Apply early. It will save you stress and give you more time to enjoy your last year of undergrad.
2. Choose a law school that fits your budget, and don’t take out loans that will lock you into a career in law. This system runs on having power over young lawyers, and the best way to make quick shifts within your career as a lawyer is not to be tied to the job.
3. Go to the best law school you can get into, and if needed, transfer your second year because where you go to school does matter, depending on what you want to do and where you want to go.
4. Apply where you want to end up. If you’re going to a SUPER top-tier school, make sure you want to be in a top city like NYC or SF because smaller cities (like Omaha) will not take you seriously if that’s where you want to be.
5. Ensure you are one thousand percent confident in your decision to go to law school and become a lawyer. If you aren’t sure you want to be a lawyer, don’t waste your time and money. Law school is an excellent education, and it’s a good idea, but it’s not the only one. Make sure you think about why you’re going and what you’d like out of it. It’s okay if you’re not sure, but there are many ways to make a living and be successful that aren’t going to law school.

Thanks to my friends who helped me compile this list!  

Here is one more tip that I would add to this list:

• Be your authentic self in your application materials. Schools like to see what you’re passionate about in addition to academics. Questions about your interests will arise more throughout your search for summer positions and externships; it’s never too early to let your personality shine through (within reason, of course).

Feel free to comment with any questions!