4 answers
Angie
Student
Oakland Park, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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What activities can I pursue for a career in law?
What opportunities, hobbies, or activities can I pursue to be able to put on my college apps to make myself appear more dedicated to a career in law?
#law #lawyer #law-school
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4 answers
Samantha Davis
Assurance Senior Associate at PwC
19
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Samantha’s Answer
Hi Angie! It's great that you know that you want to pursue a career in law. Are you planning to apply to undergraduate schools or law school? As others have said, preparing early by joining debate clubs, student councils, or (during your undergraduate career) pre-law societies can help make sure you have developed the appropriate skills to make you a strong candidate when applying to schools.
However, I would also stress that law schools will be looking for diverse and passionate candidates. If you're passionate about a club or cause that isn't directly related to law, that's okay too! Leadership positions within any organization will help you build leadership and management skills that are also important for future law school candidates to demonstrate. For example, when I wanted to apply to business school, I not only shared that I had participated in business related extracurriculars - I also shared that I served in a leadership position with my local figure skating club. This drew the attention of my interviewers and I was able to give examples that demonstrated my passion and leadership skills I had gained from this position.
However, I would also stress that law schools will be looking for diverse and passionate candidates. If you're passionate about a club or cause that isn't directly related to law, that's okay too! Leadership positions within any organization will help you build leadership and management skills that are also important for future law school candidates to demonstrate. For example, when I wanted to apply to business school, I not only shared that I had participated in business related extracurriculars - I also shared that I served in a leadership position with my local figure skating club. This drew the attention of my interviewers and I was able to give examples that demonstrated my passion and leadership skills I had gained from this position.
Spruce Cox
Retired Aerospace Engineer and Rocket Scientist
76
Answers
Updated
Spruce’s Answer
Not sure I understand your question. I am an engineer not a lawyer but both are professions, so some of this may help. The term "appearance of dedication" is by definition only skin deep and even then is uselessly subjective. You are either dedicated or not. If you really want to go into law and are applying to law schools, their concerns will be your aptitude, demonstration of willingness to work very hard, and undergrad grades.
You will need EXCELLENT writing and speaking skills, critical thinking, logic, and problem-solving skills. You will need a working knowledge of the principles of rhetoric (you don't need to be an expert) will as taught by Plato and Aristotle, and developed by Augustine, Francis Bacon, Shakespeare, and others (I sincerely wish someone had told me this when I was your age). Toastmasters groups are a great way to practice public speaking skills. Hope this helps. God bless.
You will need EXCELLENT writing and speaking skills, critical thinking, logic, and problem-solving skills. You will need a working knowledge of the principles of rhetoric (you don't need to be an expert) will as taught by Plato and Aristotle, and developed by Augustine, Francis Bacon, Shakespeare, and others (I sincerely wish someone had told me this when I was your age). Toastmasters groups are a great way to practice public speaking skills. Hope this helps. God bless.
Casey O'Brien
Digital Content Manager
9
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Casey’s Answer
My brother (and my dad) did an internship at a local congressman's office. So that's something to consider. A few of my friends have done clerical and administrative work for law firms or solo practitioners. At the very least, you could consider joining a campaign for someone who's running for office. The more "grassroots" the more responsibility you'll be given and that can lead to huge opportunities in itself!
Daniel Pack
Manager in Capital Markets Finance Operations, Technology and Data Transformation
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
Consider taking part in councils or student advocacy groups. Debate clubs could also be a good way to refine your communication and critical thinking skills.