Chloe
Pre-Law Studies
Picking a major can be difficult! I feel like I would be trapped choosing one that limits my ability to branch out into other professional areas that I am passionate about. For example, I really want to pursue law and I thought that pre-law studies was the best pathway to go. However, I am hearing that it limits jobs and an opportunity to be accepted into grad school if this is what I major in. I'm leaning towards law but my ultimate question is "how can I fulfill what my heart wants while also not limiting myself to a non-flexible major?" I'd be so appreciative of ANY advice! #majors #law #college-major #college-major #choosing-a-major
2 answers
Kim Igleheart
Kim’s Answer
Chloe,
I cannot tell you if a pre-law degree is frowned upon by graduate schools. What I can tell you is that MANY people who go to law school are not pre-law majors! I recommend majoring in your "Plan B," (as long as it is not too far astray from the normal types of degrees law students normally get!) and using your electives to take the recommended pre-law classes. Lawyers need to know something, other than just law! For example, someone who specializes in Environmental Law would possibly have a science-focus in their undergrad studies. Your school should have a Pre-Law advisor who can help you to select the right classes, even if you are not a Pre-Law major. For every class you take, look at the available substitutes. Instead of taking the regular US government class, you might be able to take "History of the American Constitution," for example. Take classes that challenge you to think and write. Do not seek out the easy professors! Join the debate team. Master public speaking. And the rules of grammar. Take Logic - it was fun!
Also look for special prep programs, possibly outside of the school curriculum, to prepare you for the LSAT - The Law School Admissions Test. It's a toughie! Cultivate professional relationships with your professors -you will need the references.
Many degrees and skills are cross-marketable. It will be up to you to explain how they are applicable for the positions you are applying for, but it can be done. A person with a geology degree might get a banking position specializing in providing service to the oil and gas industry, for example, and work up to VP of the bank. I've seen it done more than you would believe!
Best of luck!
Kim
Jamie Cooper
Jamie’s Answer
Two practical observations:
1. You want the highest grades you can possibly get in undergrad to get you into the best law school you can get into. So study things you like - your grades should reflect that you're taking classes that you enjoy.
2. You may be able to take things you love and combine them with the law. The law is applied to substantive fields so the more you know about a substantive field that you'd like to practice law in (Patent Law - undergrad in Engineering) (finance - white collar crime, corporate law, bankruptcy) the farther ahead you'll be when you actually practice law.