For whatever reason, there can be an inordinate amount of pressure to join a study group in law school, particularly during the first year. While study groups seem to have risen up as a “necessary” element of law school success, their effectiveness can vary greatly based on the group itself, and the individual learning style of students. A study group will not translate to success for all students by any means. Like many other decisions in law school, the decision to join a study group is highly individual, and students should consider a number of things when deciding whether or not to join one. [Read more…] about 6 Things to Think about When Considering a Study Group
How to Effectively Self-Study for the LSAT
Preparing for the LSAT can seem like an overwhelming process for any student, but especially so for those who may choose to forego a formal LSAT prep course. The lack of structure and absence of a trained professional explaining the test to you can make the exam seem like an insurmountable challenge. Self-studying for the LSAT isn’t for everyone, but it can be just as effective with the right mindset and tools. Below are a few things to consider doing if you are preparing for the LSAT on your own. [Read more…] about How to Effectively Self-Study for the LSAT
How to Approach a Virtual Summer Job
The coronavirus has upended the plans of most law students these past few months, and its impact on summer jobs is no exception. From cancellations to delays or virtual work, nearly all employers have needed to make drastic changes to their summer programs. The prospect of a virtual summer program may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t mean you can’t still get a ton of out your summer job. There are a few things you can consider doing to maximize your virtual summer experience. [Read more…] about How to Approach a Virtual Summer Job
How to Choose Courses for 2L and 3L Year
One of the most exciting parts of moving past 1L year is the ability to make your own schedule after a rigorous year of mandatory courses. While it is relieving to many students to finally have this opportunity, the process can also be overwhelming if you don’t know where to begin. Below are some things to consider when choosing courses to help you get the most out of your last two years of law school. [Read more…] about How to Choose Courses for 2L and 3L Year
How to Adjust to Studying at Home if You Always Worked in the Library
Before the transition to remote law school, I previously did at least ninety-percent of my schoolwork in the library. More specifically, a corner desk in the basement of the library where there were no windows, no sounds and no distractions. That was by design, because that was the best way for me to efficiently focus and manage large volumes of work. Therefore, it was a huge shock to my system to have to suddenly do everything at home, at half of my small dining room table while my boyfriend works from the other half and my cat refuses to stay off my keyboard. The learning curve was steep, but at this point things have improved a bit, and I’m learning to adjust. While this is still not an ideal situation, there are a few things that have helped me and might help you as well if you previously were a “library person.” [Read more…] about How to Adjust to Studying at Home if You Always Worked in the Library
Tips for Utilizing Virtual Office Hours
During these unprecedented times, nearly every aspect of human interaction must be handled virtually, including law school office hours. Your professor is more than likely holding office hours via Zoom, or another type of virtual conferencing software. This new system, combined with inevitable course planning changes, can make it difficult to stay on top of attending office hours. But, you should certainly still try to take advantage of them. Most of the things you should do in general to maximize your time there still apply now that they are virtual, but you may benefit from a little extra planning. Below are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of virtual office hours. [Read more…] about Tips for Utilizing Virtual Office Hours