What educational preparation would you recommend for someone who wants to advance in the law field?
What level of education, what degrees are beneficial? #law
2 answers
Carolyn’s Answer
Hi,
I always suggest that you major in either math or English and take courses in whichever one you do not major in. Math will help you to have great analytical skills, and you will need to have those skills to analyze potential cases. Having a good command of English, both written and oral is very important for a lawyer. Lawyers are always writing briefs, memos, pleadings and other written communications both for the court or for their clients or even for their boss, so having this skill is very important. Being able to communicate orally is also important because if you go to court, or even if you are having interaction with other attorneys and clients you need to have a good command of the spoken word. Word of caution here, always make sure that your use of legal words fits your audience. For example if you are talking to a client you would not use big legal words, you save those for talking to your boss as you would want to impress him with your knowledge.
Other than the above I would suggest that you take classes that you would enjoy taking so that you are not stressed all the time. Also make sure that you do not forget to take care of yourself physically. Do some sort of exercise every day, even if it is just walk 30 minutes, this will keep your mind sharp and make you feel more energetic. We have to keep our mind and body both in shape to be a well rounded person.
Best of luck on your future endeavors!
Allyson’s Answer
I agree with Carolyn that critical thinking and writing is key and will facilitate skills developed in law school. I would suggest studying something you enjoy as that will make it easier for you to learn "how to learn" and "how to study." Many people study political science, but I enjoyed studying a foreign language (I studied French), which allows you to become familiar with another system of laws and cultural customs in addition to the obvious. History and comparative studies will also provide curriculums which force you to practice your critical think skills - both spoken and written. Best of luck!