2 answers
Allie
Student
Agoura Hills, California
1
Question
Asked
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What is good advice for someone struggling to decide on an undergraduate school with plans to continue to law school ?
I'm a senior deciding between California Lutheran University (the local college that is super affordable) and a spring pathway with William and Mary (going to Spain or community college for a semester with guaranteed admission in the spring). I plan on attending law school, but I don't know which would be better to set me up for success (being admitted to a top program). Any advice is very appreciated!
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2 answers
cassandra Harris
Social / Emotional learning Teacher
26
Answers
Tucson, Arizona
Updated
cassandra’s Answer
It's completely understandable that you're feeling a bit stuck between these two options – they both offer distinct advantages as you look toward law school. From my perspective, focusing on a few key areas will likely bring the most clarity to your decision.
First, while the prestige of an undergraduate institution can play a small role in law school admissions, your academic performance, particularly your GPA and LSAT score, will be the most significant factors. Both California Lutheran University and William & Mary (even with the pathway) can provide you with a solid academic foundation. Consider which environment you believe will allow you to thrive academically and achieve the highest possible grades. Are you more comfortable in a smaller, local setting where you might have more direct interaction with professors, or are you drawn to the experience and potential network that William & Mary offers, even with a slightly unconventional start?
Second, think about the financial implications. The affordability of California Lutheran University is a significant advantage, as law school is a substantial investment. Starting your legal education journey with less undergraduate debt could provide you with more flexibility and less financial pressure down the line. Carefully weigh the cost difference against the potential benefits of the William & Mary pathway.
Third, explore the opportunities each institution offers for pre-law preparation. Does either school have a dedicated pre-law advising program, relevant coursework (like political science, history, philosophy, or logic), moot court or debate teams, or connections to legal professionals? These resources can be incredibly valuable in helping you understand the legal field, develop critical skills, and even secure internships. Reach out to advisors at both institutions to learn more about their pre-law support.
Finally, consider the overall undergraduate experience. College is about more than just academics; it's also a time for personal growth and exploration. Think about the kind of campus culture, extracurricular activities, and location that appeal to you. While your focus is on law school, a fulfilling undergraduate experience can contribute to your overall well-being and make you a more well-rounded applicant in the future.
The William & Mary pathway is intriguing, offering a unique experience and the prestige of the institution. However, don't underestimate the value of a strong academic record achieved at a more affordable local university. Ultimately, the "better" choice depends on your individual learning style, financial situation, and personal preferences. I encourage you to delve deeper into the pre-law resources at both institutions and perhaps speak with current students or alumni to gain their perspectives. This will empower you to make the decision that feels right for you and sets you on the best path towards your law school aspirations
Deep Dive into Pre-Law Resources: California Lutheran University: Visit their website or contact their academic advising department to inquire specifically about pre-law advising, relevant courses, clubs (like mock trial or debate), and any connections they have with law schools or legal professionals. Schedule a meeting with a pre-law advisor if possible. William & Mary: Similarly, investigate the pre-law resources available to undergraduates. Even though you'd be starting with the pathway, understand what support will be available to you once you arrive on campus. Inquire about pre-law advising and relevant extracurriculars.
Connect with Current Students or Alumni: Both Institutions: Try to connect with current students or alumni at both California Lutheran and William & Mary (perhaps through LinkedIn or by reaching out to relevant departments). Ask them about their experiences, the academic rigor, the support they received for their post-graduate plans, and their overall satisfaction. If anyone has gone on to law school, their insights would be particularly valuable.
Financial Aid and Cost Comparison: William & Mary Pathway: Ensure you have a clear understanding of the total cost of the pathway program, including the semester away and the subsequent time at William & Mary. Factor in travel and living expenses for the semester abroad or at community college. California Lutheran University: Confirm the net cost after any financial aid or scholarships. Compare: Create a clear side-by-side comparison of the total estimated cost of attending each institution over four years.
Visit the Campuses (If Possible): If you haven't already, try to visit both campuses. Even if you can't physically go to William & Mary right now, a virtual tour or connecting with current students can give you a better feel for the environment. Visiting California Lutheran might help solidify your sense of whether it's the right fit.
Don't Overemphasize Undergraduate Prestige for Law School: While it's natural to think about how your undergraduate choice will look to law schools, remember that your GPA and LSAT score will carry the most weight. Focus on choosing an environment where you believe you can excel academically.
First, while the prestige of an undergraduate institution can play a small role in law school admissions, your academic performance, particularly your GPA and LSAT score, will be the most significant factors. Both California Lutheran University and William & Mary (even with the pathway) can provide you with a solid academic foundation. Consider which environment you believe will allow you to thrive academically and achieve the highest possible grades. Are you more comfortable in a smaller, local setting where you might have more direct interaction with professors, or are you drawn to the experience and potential network that William & Mary offers, even with a slightly unconventional start?
Second, think about the financial implications. The affordability of California Lutheran University is a significant advantage, as law school is a substantial investment. Starting your legal education journey with less undergraduate debt could provide you with more flexibility and less financial pressure down the line. Carefully weigh the cost difference against the potential benefits of the William & Mary pathway.
Third, explore the opportunities each institution offers for pre-law preparation. Does either school have a dedicated pre-law advising program, relevant coursework (like political science, history, philosophy, or logic), moot court or debate teams, or connections to legal professionals? These resources can be incredibly valuable in helping you understand the legal field, develop critical skills, and even secure internships. Reach out to advisors at both institutions to learn more about their pre-law support.
Finally, consider the overall undergraduate experience. College is about more than just academics; it's also a time for personal growth and exploration. Think about the kind of campus culture, extracurricular activities, and location that appeal to you. While your focus is on law school, a fulfilling undergraduate experience can contribute to your overall well-being and make you a more well-rounded applicant in the future.
The William & Mary pathway is intriguing, offering a unique experience and the prestige of the institution. However, don't underestimate the value of a strong academic record achieved at a more affordable local university. Ultimately, the "better" choice depends on your individual learning style, financial situation, and personal preferences. I encourage you to delve deeper into the pre-law resources at both institutions and perhaps speak with current students or alumni to gain their perspectives. This will empower you to make the decision that feels right for you and sets you on the best path towards your law school aspirations
cassandra recommends the following next steps:
Amber Lee
Tax Associate
55
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Amber’s Answer
Hi Allie! Cassandra's response is spot on. However, I would also like to share my perspective as a former law student.
Aiming for a top law program is great, and if you have the financial resources to enroll at one of these schools--go for it! You'll get to learn from the best and be challenged in ways you might not otherwise experience in other programs. However, I would also encourage you to not dismiss schools outside the T-14 list, particularly regional schools. A lot of them have excellent law programs with strong alumni network in the geographic region they're located in, which I find to be just as important as the program itself. Additionally, there might be other things that draw you to a law school other than prestige. Perhaps there is a lower-ranked school that offers a legal clinic or certification you're interested in. Or perhaps they have a well-known faculty in a field of your interest and you would like to study under them. All these are things you might consider as you get closer to applying to law school.
With that being said, it might be a good idea to not put too much pressure on yourself to go to the "right" school now since law schools likely aren't going to place an excessive weight on your choice of undergraduate school. Instead, they take on a more holistic approach in admitting students and are more likely to look for a diverse and yet academically inclined student body with a demonstrated interest in the legal field. You could graduate from an average public school and still be admitted to a good law program if you have stellar grades, high LSAT score, and a strong resume. Or you might end up deciding to go to a law school that's less competitive but offers programs or courses that cater to your career goals.
My advice to you: no matter where you decide to attend for undergrad, just be sure to get good grades, join extracurricular activities, and stay inquisitive.
Aiming for a top law program is great, and if you have the financial resources to enroll at one of these schools--go for it! You'll get to learn from the best and be challenged in ways you might not otherwise experience in other programs. However, I would also encourage you to not dismiss schools outside the T-14 list, particularly regional schools. A lot of them have excellent law programs with strong alumni network in the geographic region they're located in, which I find to be just as important as the program itself. Additionally, there might be other things that draw you to a law school other than prestige. Perhaps there is a lower-ranked school that offers a legal clinic or certification you're interested in. Or perhaps they have a well-known faculty in a field of your interest and you would like to study under them. All these are things you might consider as you get closer to applying to law school.
With that being said, it might be a good idea to not put too much pressure on yourself to go to the "right" school now since law schools likely aren't going to place an excessive weight on your choice of undergraduate school. Instead, they take on a more holistic approach in admitting students and are more likely to look for a diverse and yet academically inclined student body with a demonstrated interest in the legal field. You could graduate from an average public school and still be admitted to a good law program if you have stellar grades, high LSAT score, and a strong resume. Or you might end up deciding to go to a law school that's less competitive but offers programs or courses that cater to your career goals.
My advice to you: no matter where you decide to attend for undergrad, just be sure to get good grades, join extracurricular activities, and stay inquisitive.