Q: Do law schools prefer certain majors or courses?
A: No. Law schools value particular skills and a well-rounded liberal arts education rather than one specific major or list of courses. Students should major in their area of interest, and focus on refining their skills in analytical thinking, critical reasoning, expository writing, oral communication, and research. Students can develop these skills and gain foundational knowledge in such disciplines as History, English (and world literature), Politics, Social and Cultural Analysis, Economics, Sociology, and Philosophy.
Q: When should I take the LSAT? Can I take it twice?
A: We advise taking the LSAT in June or the GRE in the summer, so that you have your scores back a few months before you apply, but if you are not prepared in June you may take the exam in September. Applicants should use practice tests as an indicator of readiness and strive to take the LSAT or the GRE once. While there is no limit to the amount of times an applicant can sit for the LSAT, law school admissions committees vary in how they treat multiple scores (some emphasize the highest score, others average scores together). To register for the LSAT and open your account with the Law School Data Assembly Service (LSDAS), go to www.lsac.org or, if considering the GRE for qualifying schools, register at www.ets.org.
Q: My classes are too large. How can I obtain strong letters of recommendation?
A: Take advantage of office hours and appointments with faculty. Ask questions about readings and topics covered in class, so that you establish a connection before asking for a letter. It is helpful to provide recommenders with your résumé, a draft of your personal statement, and perhaps your unofficial transcript. Be sure to ask recommenders well in advance, and send thank-you notes after submission.
Q: How important are professional experience and extracurricular activities?
A: We encourage students to participate in clubs and organizations which connect to their passions and foster opportunities for leadership experience. Exposure to the legal field or other professional environments is advised.
Q: How well do CAS students fare as applicants?
A: Approximately 90% of our students applying as college seniors receive acceptance into at least one law school. Our alumni applicants have almost an 80% success rate of acceptance.
Q: I want to attend law school later. Should I apply now and defer admission?
A: Deferring law school means delaying an offer of admission for one year. Law schools vary widely in how they process deferment requests, so check their websites or contact them for their policy. When in doubt: the best time to apply to law school is when you are ready to attend, and your credentials are as strong as possible.