3 answers
Devin
Student
Oxnard, California
1
Question
Updated
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What is the best way to get involved with law in high school and how can I prepare? #Fall24
I'm in 9th grade. I am a dual-enrollment student. I am interested in psychology, writing, journalism, and law. I have done volunteering relating to immigration law. I find defense law very interesting. What is the best way to get involved with law in high school and how can I prepare.
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3 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1616
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Getting into college and law school is highly competitive, and strong academic performance alone may not be enough to secure your spot. Extracurricular activities can play a crucial role in making your application stand out. Below are some of the extracurricular activities for pre-law that will enhance your application for law school.
🗣️ DEBATE CLUB — Joining a debate club is one of the most beneficial extracurricular activities for pre-law students. Debate clubs help you develop critical thinking, public speaking, and persuasive argumentation skills—abilities that are crucial for success in law school and legal careers. Participating in debates can also improve your ability to think on your feet and construct well-reasoned arguments.
🌐 MOCK TRIAL — Mock trial programs simulate real courtroom experiences, providing students with a taste of what it's like to be a lawyer. You’ll have the opportunity to practice public speaking, learn courtroom procedures, and develop legal strategies. This hands-on experience is highly valued by law schools as it demonstrates your commitment to and understanding of the legal field.
🪩 STUDENT GOVERNMENT — Getting involved in student government can help you develop leadership, negotiation, and policy-making skills. Serving in a student government role shows law schools that you are capable of handling responsibilities, working with diverse groups, and taking initiative—all of which are important qualities for a future lawyer.
🗃️ LEGAL INTERNSHIPS — Interning at a law firm, courthouse, or legal aid organization provides direct exposure to the legal profession. Internships allow you to observe legal proceedings, assist with case research, and understand the day-to-day responsibilities of legal professionals. This practical experience can also help you network with practicing attorneys and gain valuable letters of recommendation for your law school application.
🧭 VOLUNTEERING — Volunteering for community service projects, especially those related to legal aid or social justice, demonstrates your commitment to using the law to help others. Volunteering can also provide opportunities to develop empathy, a crucial trait for lawyers who work with diverse client bases. Whether it’s working with underrepresented communities, helping at a local shelter, or assisting with voter registration drives, volunteering can highlight your dedication to public service.
📚 RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIPS — Working as a research assistant for a professor in a field related to law or political science can enhance your research and writing skills. These positions often involve extensive reading, analysis, and writing—skills that are essential for law school success. Additionally, building a strong relationship with a faculty member can lead to a powerful letter of recommendation.
📰 STUDENT NEWSPAPER — Contributing to the student newspaper, especially as a writer or editor for the opinion or news section, can help you develop strong writing and analytical skills. Writing about current events, legal issues, or campus policies can demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
🗣️ DEBATE CLUB — Joining a debate club is one of the most beneficial extracurricular activities for pre-law students. Debate clubs help you develop critical thinking, public speaking, and persuasive argumentation skills—abilities that are crucial for success in law school and legal careers. Participating in debates can also improve your ability to think on your feet and construct well-reasoned arguments.
🌐 MOCK TRIAL — Mock trial programs simulate real courtroom experiences, providing students with a taste of what it's like to be a lawyer. You’ll have the opportunity to practice public speaking, learn courtroom procedures, and develop legal strategies. This hands-on experience is highly valued by law schools as it demonstrates your commitment to and understanding of the legal field.
🪩 STUDENT GOVERNMENT — Getting involved in student government can help you develop leadership, negotiation, and policy-making skills. Serving in a student government role shows law schools that you are capable of handling responsibilities, working with diverse groups, and taking initiative—all of which are important qualities for a future lawyer.
🗃️ LEGAL INTERNSHIPS — Interning at a law firm, courthouse, or legal aid organization provides direct exposure to the legal profession. Internships allow you to observe legal proceedings, assist with case research, and understand the day-to-day responsibilities of legal professionals. This practical experience can also help you network with practicing attorneys and gain valuable letters of recommendation for your law school application.
🧭 VOLUNTEERING — Volunteering for community service projects, especially those related to legal aid or social justice, demonstrates your commitment to using the law to help others. Volunteering can also provide opportunities to develop empathy, a crucial trait for lawyers who work with diverse client bases. Whether it’s working with underrepresented communities, helping at a local shelter, or assisting with voter registration drives, volunteering can highlight your dedication to public service.
📚 RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIPS — Working as a research assistant for a professor in a field related to law or political science can enhance your research and writing skills. These positions often involve extensive reading, analysis, and writing—skills that are essential for law school success. Additionally, building a strong relationship with a faculty member can lead to a powerful letter of recommendation.
📰 STUDENT NEWSPAPER — Contributing to the student newspaper, especially as a writer or editor for the opinion or news section, can help you develop strong writing and analytical skills. Writing about current events, legal issues, or campus policies can demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
Rebekah Grace Abanto
Teacher
5
Answers
Biñan, Calabarzon, Philippines
Updated
Rebekah Grace’s Answer
You're doing fantastic as a 9th-grade student juggling dual enrollment! Your keen interest in various subjects is truly commendable. Your involvement in law has helped you sharpen your critical thinking, public speaking, and debating skills - that's quite an achievement! Keep nurturing your love for writing and journalism. Remember, you can always write about topics that fascinate you. Dive deeper into law and psychology books to broaden your knowledge. Don't forget to volunteer at organizations, it's a great way to build a strong foundation. Also, attending seminars and webinars can be super beneficial. Keep up the great work!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Devin
Iryna Tam
Writer, copywriter
188
Answers
Hagerstown, Maryland
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hi Devin!
Getting started in law while still in high school is an excellent way to build a strong foundation for a future career in this field. Here are actionable steps to prepare yourself for a career in law, especially considering your interests in psychology, writing, journalism, and defense law:
1. Educate Yourself about the Law
Take Relevant Courses: If your school offers courses in law, constitutional law, or civics, enroll in them. Consider taking Advanced Placement (AP) or honors courses in subjects like government, history, and social studies to strengthen your understanding of legal principles.
Participate in Dual Enrollment: Since you are involved in dual enrollment, choose courses related to criminal justice, political science, or ethics if available. These can give you a head start in law school prerequisites.
2. Develop Related Skills
Improve Writing Skills: Strong writing is essential in law. Participate in writing workshops, join a school newspaper, or start a blog focusing on legal issues, social justice, or your areas of interest.
Practice Public Speaking: Join debate club or public speaking organizations to enhance your verbal communication skills. Being able to argue effectively and present your ideas clearly is critical in law.
3. Engage in Extracurricular Activities
Clubs and Organizations: Join law-related clubs, such as a mock trial team, student government, or debate team, to gain insights and experience in legal processes and argumentation.
Volunteer and Intern: Continue your volunteer work related to immigration law. Seek internships or volunteer opportunities with law firms, nonprofit organizations, or legal aid clinics that focus on defense law or immigrant rights.
4. Research and Read
Read Law-related Books: Explore books on law, famous legal cases, biographies of lawyers, or legal theory. Some recommended titles include:
"The Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court" by Jeffrey Toobin
"A Civil Action" by Jonathan Harr
Books by authors like Bryan Stevenson, focusing on social justice and defense law.
Stay Informed about Current Events: Follow legal news through reputable sources (e.g., newspapers, legal journals, and online platforms) to understand current legal issues and the judicial process.
5. Connect with Mentors and Professionals
Seek Mentorship: Reach out to teachers, school counselors, or professionals in the legal field. They can provide guidance, recommend resources, and help you navigate your career path.
Networking: Attend local legal events, public lectures, or seminars related to your interests. Connecting with legal professionals can provide valuable insights and open up opportunities.
6. Explore Educational Programs
Pre-Law Programs: Research pre-law programs for high school students, summer camps, or workshops that focus on law, criminal justice, or social justice issues.
Online Courses: Consider enrolling in online courses related to law on platforms like Coursera or edX. Look for courses covering legal writing, fundamentals of law, or specific areas like criminal law.
7. Plan for Your Future Education
Research Law Schools: Familiarize yourself with the requirements for attending law school, including undergraduate majors, the LSAT, and application processes.
Undergraduate Focus: While preparing for law school, consider pursuing an undergraduate degree that aligns with your interests (e.g., political science, psychology, sociology, or journalism). Courses in these areas can provide valuable insights into human behavior, society, and effective communication.
Getting started in law during high school requires proactive engagement in relevant courses, developing essential skills, and gaining practical experience through volunteering and internships. Pursuing activities that align with your interests in psychology, writing, and journalism will also enhance your qualifications. By being proactive and building a strong foundation, you will be well-prepared for future studies and a successful career in law. Good luck on your journey!
Getting started in law while still in high school is an excellent way to build a strong foundation for a future career in this field. Here are actionable steps to prepare yourself for a career in law, especially considering your interests in psychology, writing, journalism, and defense law:
1. Educate Yourself about the Law
Take Relevant Courses: If your school offers courses in law, constitutional law, or civics, enroll in them. Consider taking Advanced Placement (AP) or honors courses in subjects like government, history, and social studies to strengthen your understanding of legal principles.
Participate in Dual Enrollment: Since you are involved in dual enrollment, choose courses related to criminal justice, political science, or ethics if available. These can give you a head start in law school prerequisites.
2. Develop Related Skills
Improve Writing Skills: Strong writing is essential in law. Participate in writing workshops, join a school newspaper, or start a blog focusing on legal issues, social justice, or your areas of interest.
Practice Public Speaking: Join debate club or public speaking organizations to enhance your verbal communication skills. Being able to argue effectively and present your ideas clearly is critical in law.
3. Engage in Extracurricular Activities
Clubs and Organizations: Join law-related clubs, such as a mock trial team, student government, or debate team, to gain insights and experience in legal processes and argumentation.
Volunteer and Intern: Continue your volunteer work related to immigration law. Seek internships or volunteer opportunities with law firms, nonprofit organizations, or legal aid clinics that focus on defense law or immigrant rights.
4. Research and Read
Read Law-related Books: Explore books on law, famous legal cases, biographies of lawyers, or legal theory. Some recommended titles include:
"The Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court" by Jeffrey Toobin
"A Civil Action" by Jonathan Harr
Books by authors like Bryan Stevenson, focusing on social justice and defense law.
Stay Informed about Current Events: Follow legal news through reputable sources (e.g., newspapers, legal journals, and online platforms) to understand current legal issues and the judicial process.
5. Connect with Mentors and Professionals
Seek Mentorship: Reach out to teachers, school counselors, or professionals in the legal field. They can provide guidance, recommend resources, and help you navigate your career path.
Networking: Attend local legal events, public lectures, or seminars related to your interests. Connecting with legal professionals can provide valuable insights and open up opportunities.
6. Explore Educational Programs
Pre-Law Programs: Research pre-law programs for high school students, summer camps, or workshops that focus on law, criminal justice, or social justice issues.
Online Courses: Consider enrolling in online courses related to law on platforms like Coursera or edX. Look for courses covering legal writing, fundamentals of law, or specific areas like criminal law.
7. Plan for Your Future Education
Research Law Schools: Familiarize yourself with the requirements for attending law school, including undergraduate majors, the LSAT, and application processes.
Undergraduate Focus: While preparing for law school, consider pursuing an undergraduate degree that aligns with your interests (e.g., political science, psychology, sociology, or journalism). Courses in these areas can provide valuable insights into human behavior, society, and effective communication.
Getting started in law during high school requires proactive engagement in relevant courses, developing essential skills, and gaining practical experience through volunteering and internships. Pursuing activities that align with your interests in psychology, writing, and journalism will also enhance your qualifications. By being proactive and building a strong foundation, you will be well-prepared for future studies and a successful career in law. Good luck on your journey!