Freshman and Sophomore Year
- Complete an evaluation of your strengths and interests. Discuss your interests with an academic advisor to explore courses that are in your areas of interest.
- Take classes that will help you develop critical and analytical thinking skills and oral and written communication skills.
- There is no required major for law school so you should explore and choose a major in the field that you enjoy and in which you are able to perform well.
- Always attend class and schedule study time. Time management is very critical and will help you succeed academically. Your grades are IMPORTANT and having a strong academic record is needed for admission to law school.
- Join the Pre-law Student Association (PLSA).
- Get involved in extra-curricular activities that are important to you. Only participate in activities that are of interest to you and will help you develop leadership, public service, and communication skills.
- Learn how best to build relationships with your faculty. Developing strong relationships with your faculty is important so that you will have professors to ask for advice and letters of recommendations later.
- Start researching the opportunities for summer law school programs, study abroad, internships, and externships.
Junior Year
- Take the AS 299, Pre-Law Seminar class.
- Stay involved with experiential learning opportunities and try to ascend to leadership positions in the organizations you are a part of.
- Continue to focus on your academics and meet with the pre-law advisor to begin your research of law schools.
- Attend law school forums or conferences and meet with the law school representatives.
- Continue developing relationships with your faculty.
- At the end of the junior year, plan to take the LSAT in June (if you are prepared).
- Register with the LSAC.
- Research law schools of your interest and learn of the necessary steps to begin the application process.
- Tip: Begin writing your personal statement and resume for law school during the summer.
Senior Year
- If you did not take the LSAT in June, register for the September/October test date.
- Make sure you are registered with the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) through LSAC and complete your online profile.
- Schedule an appointment to meet with a faculty member or other mentor to request a letter of recommendation. Ask your recommenders if they would prefer a copy of your resume, transcript, personal statement, etc. and be prepared to provide them with whatever information they need to write you a strong letter of recommendation.
- Schedule an appointment to meet with your pre-law advisor to discuss your application process to law schools, ask questions, and receive additional information if needed.
- Select the law schools of your interest and begin your application process. It is very important that you follow directions for each law school, submit all required documents, and are aware of each school’s application deadline.
- While law school deadlines are not until the spring, set a “self” deadline to have all of your application materials submitted by mid-November. This will give you the best opportunities for scholarships and other possible opportunities.