Which major should I choose?
Law schools want students who can think critically, write well and possess good interpersonal skills. As long as you receive an education including critical analysis, logical reasoning and written and oral expression, you can pursue ANY undergraduate major. Select something you find interesting, challenging and enjoyable. Work hard to earn good grades.
Do I have to take any pre-requisite courses before applying to law school?
No, there is no set of prescribed courses for law school. However, you should meet regularly with the Pre-Law Advisor and your departmental advisor to discuss appropriate course selection.
What does a law school focus on for admission purposes?
Your Law School Admission Test (LSAT) score, undergraduate grade point average, letters of recommendation and personal statement are the primary factors used to determine law school admission. Secondary factors include work experience and extra- curricular activities.
To how many law schools should I apply?
The general wisdom is to apply to at least:
1-2 “safety schools”;
2-6 schools in which you are interested and where your academic credentials place you in range for admission;
and 1-2 “dream schools” or “reach schools” that you would love to attend, but where you may be a stretch for admission. Note this does not mean applying to a school to which you stand virtually no chance of admission!
Do I have a better chance of being admitted to a better law school if it is not on the east-coast?
Yes. Because schools like to have a diverse class, geographic diversity helps them meet that goal. Accordingly, you might make a better law school in the mid-west, south, southwest, or west than you could get into if you limited yourself to the usual Boston to Washington, D.C. east-coast corridor.
How should I approach the letters of recommendation?
Generally, law schools prefer writers who can speak to your academic qualifications. However, letters from employers or supervisors at volunteer organizations can be a helpful supplement. If a school requests three letters, I would recommend at least two be from professors. Almost every school requires that you register for LSDAS, which compiles your transcripts, letters of recommendation, and LSAT score reports, and sends them to the schools to which you are applying. The LSDAS website contains a form for references. You absolutely must print out a copy for each reference, sign it, and give it to him/her. You should get everything to your reference at least several weeks in advance. As a guideline for how to write the letter, schools desire to know how long the reference has known the applicant, the context of their relationship, how well the reference knows the applicant, and relevant information about the applicant's characteristics and achievements. Detailed examples are helpful. In order to facilitate this process, students should give their references:
-a signed copy of the LSDAS recommendation form
-a resume
-a copy of their personal statement
-a stamped envelope addressed to LSDAS
-a list of courses that you have taken with the professor, with your grade and the semester you took the course
-a deadline.
