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Simone
Student
Oxnard, California
1
Question
Asked
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what inspired you to do corporate law ?
Hi I am in 9 grade and I was thinking about going into corporate law. I have done swap meet justice, it is basically where we help people apply for citizenship and help them renew their residency. I wanted to ask you, how did you know you wanted to be a corporate lawyer, what school did you go to, what was your major, and what was job hunting like. was it hard finding a job as a corporate lawyer.
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1 answer
Iryna Tam
Writer, copywriter
188
Answers
Hagerstown, Maryland
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hello Simone!
It’s great to hear that you’re interested in pursuing a career in corporate law! Here’s a pathway to becoming a corporate lawyer, including education, skills, and job search insights.
Steps to Become a Corporate Lawyer
Focus on Your Education (High School):
Stay Academically Strong: Maintain good grades in subjects like English, History, and Social Studies. These will help you develop your reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.
Extracurricular Activities: Participate in debate clubs, student government, or mock trial programs. This will help you build essential skills like public speaking, argumentation, and teamwork.
Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree:
Recommended Majors: While there is no specific major required for law school, common choices include:
Political Science
Business Administration
Economics
History
Philosophy (helps with critical thinking and ethics)
Skills Development: Focus on courses that enhance your analytical writing, research skills, and understanding of business.
Take the LSAT:
Law School Admission Test (LSAT): After your bachelor's degree, you’ll need to take the LSAT, which assesses reading and verbal reasoning skills. Good scores are crucial for admission to competitive law schools.
Attend Law School:
Accredited Law School: Apply to a law school approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Possible schools include:
Harvard Law School
Yale Law School
Stanford Law School
Columbia Law School
Specialize in Corporate Law: During law school, take courses related to corporate law, business law, and contracts. Participate in relevant internships or clinics.
Gain Experience:
Internships: Look for internships at law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies specializing in business law. This experience is vital for networking and skill development.
Networking: Attend law-related events, join legal associations (like the American Bar Association), and connect with professionals in the field.
Pass the Bar Exam:
After graduating from law school, you must pass the bar exam in the state where you plan to practice. This exam tests your knowledge of state and federal law.
Begin Your Career:
Entry-Level Positions: Look for positions as a corporate lawyer in law firms or in-house legal departments of corporations. You may also consider smaller firms or public sector jobs initially.
Job Search Insights
Competitive Field: Corporate law can be competitive, as many law graduates aspire to work in this area. However, a solid academic record, relevant experience, and strong networking can help you stand out.
Use Resources: Leverage career services at your law school, attorney mentorship programs, and job boards specific to legal professions.
Persistence Matters: Finding a job can be challenging, but persistence in applying, networking, and developing your skills will aid your search.
Additional Tips
Explore Corporate Law Today: You can start exploring corporate law now by reading legal news, following corporate law blogs, or attending law-related workshops or seminars.
Engage in Relevant Activities: Your participation in "Swap Meet Justice" is excellent; seek other opportunities that expose you to legal processes and client interaction.
Transitioning into corporate law involves a clear educational pathway and practical experience. By focusing on your studies, participating in related extracurricular activities, and building your professional network, you can enhance your chances of success in this field. While the journey may have challenges, your early interest and proficiencies will position you well for a fulfilling career in corporate law.
Good Luck!
It’s great to hear that you’re interested in pursuing a career in corporate law! Here’s a pathway to becoming a corporate lawyer, including education, skills, and job search insights.
Steps to Become a Corporate Lawyer
Focus on Your Education (High School):
Stay Academically Strong: Maintain good grades in subjects like English, History, and Social Studies. These will help you develop your reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.
Extracurricular Activities: Participate in debate clubs, student government, or mock trial programs. This will help you build essential skills like public speaking, argumentation, and teamwork.
Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree:
Recommended Majors: While there is no specific major required for law school, common choices include:
Political Science
Business Administration
Economics
History
Philosophy (helps with critical thinking and ethics)
Skills Development: Focus on courses that enhance your analytical writing, research skills, and understanding of business.
Take the LSAT:
Law School Admission Test (LSAT): After your bachelor's degree, you’ll need to take the LSAT, which assesses reading and verbal reasoning skills. Good scores are crucial for admission to competitive law schools.
Attend Law School:
Accredited Law School: Apply to a law school approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Possible schools include:
Harvard Law School
Yale Law School
Stanford Law School
Columbia Law School
Specialize in Corporate Law: During law school, take courses related to corporate law, business law, and contracts. Participate in relevant internships or clinics.
Gain Experience:
Internships: Look for internships at law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies specializing in business law. This experience is vital for networking and skill development.
Networking: Attend law-related events, join legal associations (like the American Bar Association), and connect with professionals in the field.
Pass the Bar Exam:
After graduating from law school, you must pass the bar exam in the state where you plan to practice. This exam tests your knowledge of state and federal law.
Begin Your Career:
Entry-Level Positions: Look for positions as a corporate lawyer in law firms or in-house legal departments of corporations. You may also consider smaller firms or public sector jobs initially.
Job Search Insights
Competitive Field: Corporate law can be competitive, as many law graduates aspire to work in this area. However, a solid academic record, relevant experience, and strong networking can help you stand out.
Use Resources: Leverage career services at your law school, attorney mentorship programs, and job boards specific to legal professions.
Persistence Matters: Finding a job can be challenging, but persistence in applying, networking, and developing your skills will aid your search.
Additional Tips
Explore Corporate Law Today: You can start exploring corporate law now by reading legal news, following corporate law blogs, or attending law-related workshops or seminars.
Engage in Relevant Activities: Your participation in "Swap Meet Justice" is excellent; seek other opportunities that expose you to legal processes and client interaction.
Transitioning into corporate law involves a clear educational pathway and practical experience. By focusing on your studies, participating in related extracurricular activities, and building your professional network, you can enhance your chances of success in this field. While the journey may have challenges, your early interest and proficiencies will position you well for a fulfilling career in corporate law.
Good Luck!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Simone