Appetizers

Starting with some basics.

 Fun Starters

Getting to know the human side.

 Main Course

A quick deep dive into the day-to-day student life.

Tell us about yourself and what you're studying.

I'm the first person in my family to go to graduate school and become a lawyer. I'm studying to obtain a law degree and I have an interest in corporate and tax law. But, a legal degree is a generalist one, so I get to study a lot of different aspects of the law. In fact, first-year law students all take a standard curriculum, so you get exposure to different basic aspects of the law early on. We read court cases all the time!

How did you end up in your field? What do you like about it?

I started thinking about becoming a lawyer in college when I joined a pre-law organization. I originally had an interest in government/policy work. But, after a few summer internships in the public sector, I decided that the work and environment weren't for me. Still, my interest in policy led me towards a related interest in law.

I entered law school knowing that I wanted to work as a private-sector lawyer. I think law school really does teach you to "think like a lawyer" and to be a good advocate. I think of myself as an outgoing, detail-oriented person and I think that a legal career will suit me well.

What classes are you taking right now? Which is your favorite and why?

As a second-year law student, I can choose which classes I want to take. Right now, I'm taking Public International Law (which satisfies our international studies requirement) and Mass Media Law. I'm also enrolled in the Federal Tax Clinic, where I provide legal advice to low-income taxpayers facing issues with the IRS. Law schools offer lots of different clinics that allow students to practice as student attorneys during the semester. Typically, these clinics provide pro bono services to various clients. I personally enjoy my clinic because it's a great combination of experiential learning and direct services.

Let's say the school day just started, what's a typical morning look like?

During a typical non-COVID year, my morning would begin with getting ready and reading the week's assigned reading alongside a breakfast before a morning class.

Cool, then what does a typical afternoon look like?

Usually, I'd attend one of several lunch talks being hosted by a student organization on any given day. I'd spend time with classmates and/or work on readings/assignments in between the rest of my classes.

How are your classes/exams and how do you keep up? How many hours per week do you spend studying or doing assignments?

The intensity varies depending on what year of law school a student is in. I would spend about 20-30 hours per week on readings/writing assignments up until the end of classes. During the month leading up to the exams, I typically spend an additional 15 hours taking practice exams for the 2 weeks leading up to finals week.

 Dessert

Now for some juicy insights in the tea room.

What's the most challenging thing about your grad program?

There is a steep learning curve to starting law school, with a lot to learn both academically and professionally. Students have to get used to a consistent and somewhat intense workload. You'll also probably be around a lot of Type-A people, so having confidence, a good support network, and ways to manage your stress are important.

What are some characteristics that help someone succeed in your grad program specifically?

Successful law students tend to have a genuine interest in their classes and reading assignments. They also take advantage of their professional networks and mentorship opportunities.

Any advice on how to stand out and get into your grad program for those just starting off?

The basics are having a good GPA and LSAT score. It is important to have some interest/passion and demonstrate strong involvement in organizations, activities, and events which show your interest. Then, it's also important to seriously consider whether you want to actually be a lawyer.

What's something that surprised you about grad school?

The most surprising change I noticed during my grad program is how much more free time I have in my schedule compared to my undergraduate schedule. Another is that law school, especially the first year, is very centered on academics and learning.

Any last thoughts, advice, or recommendations for someone who wants to get into your grad program?

It's common for people to be interested in law school when they actually have other career interests besides becoming a lawyer. For some, a law degree can be a stepping stone to a non-legal career. But, it's important to know that a legal education is an expensive one. Another personal decision to make is when to apply to law school; unlike high schoolers directly applying to undergraduate programs, most law students do not apply to attend right out of undergrad.

Drinks

Chat more over coffee or tea?