Can I double major in dance and attend law school?
My first passion is dance. I started when I was 2 and have loved it since. I would like to pursue a career in dance, but I’m afraid that it is unrealistic. This field is highly competitive. Therefore, I am looking for a Plan B. I’ve always been interested in law, specifically family law. I would like to know if it is possible to major in dance for my undergraduate degree and attend law school afterwards. If so, are there any additional classes, clubs, activities, etc that I should have under my belt for law school?
#familylaw #dance #law
2 answers
Michelle Avrutin
Michelle’s Answer
It's really great to hear about your passion for dance and if that is your dream, you should pursue it! Law school doesn't expect you to have a certain degree before applying, but with that said, you should still take courses that will prepare you for law school. Maybe you should think about double-majoring in dance and some other subject. You can choose another subject you are very passionate about whether that's economics, international affairs, statistics etc. It may not be necessary for your application to have a double major, but you need to show the law schools that you are prepared to do the work. Try to take some law courses and join clubs that have your interests in law. Show the admissions committee that while you are passionate about dance, you have both the academic and professional (internship) experience to do well. Not only will this benefit you in the application process, but it will make law school easier for you because you will have experience taking university exams in core-subjects.
Law school should never be a back-up plan and you shouldn't go unless you are passionate about law. The first year of law school is as difficult as you've heard and it's not worth the trouble if you don't love what you are learning. Life is too short to do something that you don't like. I hope you'll take some time to explore and reflect. Law is a pretty amazing field. Good luck :)
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As a lawyer for 20 years I agree. Law Schools and employers want to see passion and commitment and a willingness to do the hard work. Some of the most fascinating lawyers I know studied art and other unusual topics in undergrad. One ended up back in art - as general counsel of a major museum. A double major or at least a minor in political science or economics or another topic like that would be very helpful as well.
Catherine Jones
Rachel’s Answer
I, for example, did not major in anything related to the political / legal field and still attended law school. My brother's major was applied mathematics, and he attends law school. So do not let law school hinder your choices at what you personally want for an undergraduate degree. However, I highly advise that you pick a major that has more career prospects. Dance as a double major or a minor would be a great choice! Also, you can join a dance club or a nearby studio while you are at school. It would also build your resume for dance prospects while still securing an income generating undergraduate degree.
As noted by the other poster, law school should definitely not be a Plan B. It is very expensive and it is a lengthy process. It is very difficult and shouldn't be taken lightly.
I hope this was helpful!