Once you have been admitted to one or more law schools, the time will come to make a decision on which law school to attend. Typically, the deadline for this decision is in April, unless you have been waitlisted. Students who have been waitlisted should continue to regularly check on the status of their application.
Making a decision entails the analysis of many factors including cost, geography, ranking and employment prospects. Students should attend a tour for each law school they have been admitted to to see the environment they will be a part of for the next four years. You also should explore the geography associated with that school.
Each law school assists students in passing the bar in that particular state or region, so it is important that a student understand the area they will be living in. Cost is also an important factor when making the decision of where you will go on to study law. These factors should be looked over carefully and given the same thorough amount of attention.
Should I take a gap year?
Law school is a large commitment that involves dedication, time and money. Students who are unsure if they want to pursue their interest in law immediately upon graduation have the option of taking a gap year. There is no right or wrong way to spend a gap year and students are encouraged to explore their passions.
The paths a student can take during a gap year are endless and do not need to be law-specific. This time can provide an opportunity for potential applicants to investigte a specific area of law or to travel. Making the decision to live in a different country or to be immersed in a different culture are all chances to expand your resume as they present experiences that help build transferable skills. Ultimately, these skills will build upon the characteristics law school admissions councils will be looking for when you are ready to apply.
Financing law school
Eligibility for financial aid during law school is dependent on numerous variables and the institution itself.
To learn more about financial aid eligibility please click on the LSACs, “Financial Aid for Law School: A Preliminary Guide” below. http://www.lsac.org/docs/default-source/publications-(lsac-resources)/financial-aid-brochure.pdf
Sign up for the pre-law listserv
Connecticut College students who wish to keep up-to-date with job postings and internships should email Cheryl Banker ’06 caban@conncoll.edu to sign up to be a part of the pre-law listserv.