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What organizations should I contact or form connections with before going into the legal field?

I am a 17 year old girl living in Bothell, Washington hoping to major in sociology and minor in pre-law at Biola University. I would love to attend law school at the University of Washington, but I need financial help to get there.

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Nathan’s Answer

I was on a pre-law track in undergrad and one of the best things I did to help me learn I didn't want to go law school was I got a job as a courier at a law firm during the summer and I worked there part-time during the semester. I ended up doing more than just running filings back and forth to the court house. It also gave me really good insight into what the day to day life of an attorney would be like. Eventually I was even doing some research on cases (reading through financial evidence annotating suspicion things for the attorney to look at, organizing documents, etc.). It was one of the best choices I made to help me make my decision in the field and for the record I might change my career again and a JD is an option!
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Nathan! Hayley
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Britton’s Answer

Hi Hayley, consider setting up informational interviews with people in the legal field. Many are happy to chat with students about their careers, so you should find someone willing to meet for 30-60 minutes. Be ready to share why you're interested in law and ask thoughtful questions. This will help you have a good conversation, make a positive impression, and start building your network. Start by asking friends, family, or neighbors if they know any lawyers, and then ask for more referrals from there.

Also, try to get an internship or shadowing opportunity to see what a lawyer's day is like. Keep in mind that daily tasks can vary based on the type of law and workplace, like a big firm versus a solo practice or public defender.

Focus on doing well in college, as it's your best path to law school and potential scholarships or financial aid. Develop strong critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills, and learn to work well with others. These skills are essential for being a good lawyer and useful in many other careers.
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Vanessa’s Answer

I agree with Nathan in looking at opportunities to shadow at a law firm or with a paralegal. I am in the medical profession, and I have had students observe what a typical, day, week, month looks like. It is important to recognize what energizes us as this is a great guide to works that aligns with our passions and interests. I am connected to a center that supports survivors of domestic violence. The advocates who work with survivors make a tremendous impact in the lives.
Thank you comment icon Thanks Vanessa! That's very helpful!! Hayley
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Shanthi’s Answer

I echo the advice above. Try attending college or university law fairs - law firms usually attend these and you can meet and and speak with legal professionals at these events
Thank you comment icon Awesome! Thanks!! Hayley
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