Finding the right law school can be a daunting task. You must weigh the costs and benefits of earning a J.D. as well as determine what will make your law school experience fulfilling. Examine the following important areas:
Evaluate specialty, experience and training opportunities
Specialized courses, clinics and professional skills training opportunities tailored to your interests can provide valuable knowledge and lay the foundation for your legal career. Learn about which schools provide valuable hands-on experiences, allowing you to work with clients and practicing attorneys.
These opportunities, are ideal for discovering your passion, honing your skills, and making connections with future employers. Think about where and in what field you will want to practice after graduation.
Professional guidance and support
Look at a school’s available resources that you will utilize throughout your experience, including the number and type of student groups as well as career services such as career fairs and alumni networks. When thinking about future employment, be sure to look at the school’s employment statistics for graduates to see what type of work they tend to pursue.
Evaluate financial assistance options side-by-side with tuition and fees
When considering law school, cost should be a top priority. Law school is not cheap and often requires large student loans. Be realistic! Assess your financial situation and determine the availability of aid as well as repayment options after graduation.
Check out Equal Justice Works Guide to Law Schools, which allows you to examine a school’s available curricula, financial aid options, and staff and faculty engagement.
Radhika Singh Miller, guest blogger, serves as program manager of educational debt relief and outreach at Equal Justice Works
You can find more resources and information on the Career Services Considering Pre-Law and Applying to Law School pages.
Also, don’t miss the Law School Panel: Mon, Sept 24th 4-5:30pm. Davis Center, Jost Foundation Room!