Things I Wish I Knew Before Applying to Law School

Applying to law school is stressful, but it is much better if you are prepared and know what to expect. I had to learn the process as I went along. Here are some helpful hints that I wish I knew before I started the application process.

The Prestige Of Your Undergraduate Institution Does Not Matter

When I applied to colleges, I wanted to go to one of the best colleges in the country. I picked an expensive liberal arts college because of the opportunities it could offer me. While it did offer me opportunities, it did not help me at all during the law school application process. Law schools care much more about your grade point average than the quality of your school or the difficulty of your major. If you want to go to law school, it is in your best interest to go to college somewhere that you can excel. If you cannot afford to attend a higher-priced institution, do not worry; law schools prefer a 4.0 from a state school over a 3.0 from Harvard.

It is More Important To Have A Good GPA Than Extracurricular Activities

Many law school applicants, and college students in general, think it is important to have a resume filled with activities. This is not the case. It is important to have some activities, which can include a job, volunteering, sports, or anything that proves you were engaged in your community. However, law schools prefer that you have a strong GPA, so if being involved in too many activities has caused your grades to drop, you might want to rethink your plan.

Go To Office Hours And Impress At Least Two Professors

When you apply to law school, you will probably need at least two recommendations from your professors. Law schools favor recommendations that show the professor really knows the student and can speak to his or her specific qualities. I did not go to my professors' office hours very often because I was shy and I did not feel I needed help. I came to regret that when it was time to ask for law school recommendations. So even if you don't need help, it is still a good idea to speak with your professors.

Start Studying For The LSAT Early

Along with your GPA, your LSAT score will be one of the biggest determining factors as to what schools will accept you. In fact, many schools weigh the LSAT a bit more heavily than the GPA, so this one test can be the biggest factor in determining your admission. I recommend taking the test in June or September so that you have time to retake it if you mess up the first time. It is also important to start studying a couple months in advance. There are many books available, but I recommend buying one that contains actual past tests in it so you can get a feel of what might be asked on test day.

Start The Application Process Early

Many schools admit students on a rolling basis or a modified rolling basis, so it is in your advantage to apply early. Not only will you likely hear back earlier if you apply early, but you also have a better chance of getting accepted. I recommend applying sometime before the end of November.

Check For Scholarship Applications

Many schools automatically consider applicants for merit aid, but some schools want you to fill out separate scholarship applications. Other schools have specific scholarships, such as public interest scholarships, that require separate applications as well. The deadline for these scholarships is often much earlier than the admission application deadline, so be sure to check the school's Web site early.