SO YOU’RE A FIRST YEAR?
Aww, well first off, welcome to college! These next four years will be some of the most exciting years of your life, so buckle up. It may not always be a smooth ride, but you’re on the path to something bigger than you can even imagine right now. It’s awesome if you’ve already decided that you want to pursue the pre-law route as a first-year student; however, I will caution you not to allow the “pre-law” blinders to place you on a unilateral path. Careers in the law are so much more than what we traditionally conceive them to be. It encompasses all majors and disciplines, so don’t think you have to be a Pre-Law or Political Science major in order to become a lawyer. In fact, some of the most sought after law school applicants are those that majored in a “non-traditional” discipline in comparison to the typical applicant because of their unique perspective and valuable experience. Use this first year to try new things and get acclimated with your new environment.
Happy “college-ing!”
First-Year “Play-Book”
DO WELL IN YOUR CLASSES
Try to get the highest GPA possible this year. For many, you’ll be taking general education classes, so work hard to excel and ASK for help when necessary. Earning a high GPA this year will set you up for an internship in the summer and put you in the running for fellowship opportunities that can distinguish you from your peers in the near future. Have fun this year but don’t forget why you’re there...to stay on your GRIND, period.
Now, if you’re reading this and you’re like, "well, this is tough because my first year in school was definitely not my best", that’s okay too. Use this year as a learning experience and show positive growth in your GPA as you continue through these next few years.
GET INVOLVED
Join a couple of clubs or organizations on campus and become an active member. Use your first year to discover new interests and don't be afraid to tap into a variety of organizations you may not have been familiar with during high school.
PLUG-IN
Attend various forums or events on your campus that you're passionate about. Find opportunites to meet various activists or professors and learn about the work that they’re doing.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteer in your local community and establish a regular presence. Be sure to give back and get connected with the community outside your campus. Try to make genuine relationships at your volunteer sites and dedicate yourself to work you're truly passionate about.
BUILD RELATIONSHIPS
Get to know your professors and find your voice in the classroom. Don't be afraid to ask questions and talk to your professors during their office hours. Your professors are a guide for you during your academic journey, so establishing strong relationships with them from the beginning is a major key.
INTERNSHIPS
Some students have said they have trouble finding a summer internship in their first year, but they could just be looking in the wrong places. Many internships prioritize upperclassmen, but that shouldn't stop your search. Look for opportunities to intern part-time at organizations in your hometown or look for part-time jobs to keep you occupied. Maybe even apply for a week-long study abroad trip through your school. A summer internship experience can expand to encompass a variety of experiences, so don’t feel stifled in your options.
ENJOY THIS YEAR!
Don’t forget to go out with your friends and have fun! This first year should be all about learning more about yourself and having a wonderful time while doing it.