So, you have aspirations of being a lawyer. It’s a noble profession, one which many people pursue but only a handful go on to join. While applying to law school is difficult even for traditional students, it can be especially treacherous if you haven’t prepared yourself for the kind of academic rigor that will now be required of you.
Getting informed on the application and acceptance process will be key to your success as you begin your career in law. Here are some common questions that you must have answered in anticipation of receiving that acceptance letter. Good luck on your journey!
Do I need to take the LSAT?
The LSAT, or Law School Admission Test, is a measure of your knowledge that will be necessary as you consider the type of critical and analytical thinking skills needed for success in a law career. Studying for the LSAT might be effective on your own, but finding free LSAT prep in your area would be a good idea to ensure that you receive the type of score worthy of admission to law school. Get the help and support that you need, and begin studying well in advance of your test date to ensure test-taking success.
What kind of job do I want to obtain after law school?
There are a number of jobs in the legal field that relate to law, but they might not necessarily require that you obtain a J.D. Do a little bit of research and find which careers in law interest you, and then find out what type of degrees or certifications are required to make your career goals manifest. It could be criminal law, civil litigation, or a variety of other types, so pick one that not only interests you but one in which you demonstrate proficiency.
What about careers in public policy?
If you are interested in public policy, there are a number of degrees that are a better fit for that type of work; a law degree might not even be necessary. A master’s degree in public administration or public policy would be a better fit. Know what type of work you’d like to enter before you determine whether a law degree is right for you.
Should I specialize in a particular interest?
Depending on what type of job you wish to obtain after school, you may need a specialized degree or certification. Having these specializations will allow you to search for jobs that fit your criteria exactly. On the other hand, if you are fine with several different job options after school, go for a general law degree that can open up your job offerings.
What kind of salary can I expect after completing my degree?
While the media portrays the world of law and lawyers as glamorous, don’t graduate with stars in your eyes. Most lawyers starting out on their career pathway begin in the $50K-$75K per year range, and it’s only after they’ve paid some dues that they begin to see consistently bigger salaries. Don’t trust us? Try talking to an expert in this field. A legal recruiter with years of experience in the domain, someone like Alex Gotch, for example, can likely answer all your queries. This will help you form an informed decision regarding whether or not a career in law is right for you.
What is the admission process like?
Before you gain admission into law school, you must first complete an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. From there, you’ll need to complete the following:
- Register and complete the LSAT
- Forward all of your undergraduate transcripts to your preferred school
- Obtain letters of recommendation from colleagues and professors
- Submit your resume and personal statement
When in doubt, ask the professionals
When you are contemplating law school, it is important to approach your admissions process with a little bit of knowledge and pre-planning. Knowing what will be expected of you—and being able to deliver it—will be key steps in you achieving the admission and the degree of your dreams! Best of luck to you as you reach for your ultimate career goals!