Hi everyone! I've been thinking about potentially going to law school after I finish my undergrad. What should I be doing during high school and college to make myself a strong candidate for law school? Are there specific courses, extracurriculars, or internships that would be particularly helpful?
Hi! It's great that you're considering law school. To become a strong candidate, there are several aspects you should focus on during high school and college.
In high school, focus on maintaining strong academic performance. Though there aren't specific courses you must take, developing skills in reading, writing, and critical thinking will be useful. Participating in extracurricular activities such as debate or mock trial can also help prepare you for a legal career.
Once in college, choose a major that aligns with your interests and allows you to excel academically. Law schools admit students with diverse majors, so there's no "perfect" pre-law major. However, some common choices include political science, history, philosophy, and English. It isn't compulsory to follow a pre-law track if your school offers one, but it could be beneficial as they provide tailored guidance for law school preparation.
Strong grades increase your chances of acceptance to a top law school, so prioritize your GPA. Also, develop relationships with professors because you'll need well-written recommendation letters from them.
Get involved in extracurricular activities showcasing your leadership, community involvement, and interest in law. Joining clubs related to law or debate, volunteering for legal service organizations, or getting involved in student government can demonstrate your commitment to the field.
In terms of internships, gaining experience in the legal industry or public service can improve your law school application. Look for internships with law firms, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or in-house legal departments of corporations. Additionally, many schools offer pre-law advising programs that can help you find internships in the legal field.
Lastly, prepare for and excel on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). The LSAT is an important part of your application, as it measures your reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning skills. Invest time in studying and consider using prep resources, such as LSAT prep books, courses, or tutoring.
In summary, focus on your academics, engage in extracurricular activities that reflect your passion for law, seek relevant internships, and perform well on the LSAT to become a strong law school candidate. Best of luck on your journey!
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