The law library’s studious silence, hardwood furniture, and book-lined shelves appeal to most any aspiring lawyer. As you get familiar on campus, the library may become a favorite study spot, but few law students, at least few 1Ls, appreciate the hidden treasure of the law school library: the law librarian. As any 3L research assistant will tell you, befriending a law librarian can be one of the most beneficial and time-saving decisions of your law school career. Here are a few questions you might not know to ask about your law school’s law librarian. [Read more…] about Law Librarians Explained: Everything a 1L Should Know
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How to be the Star of Your Study Group
Let’s be clear. Not all people do well in a study group. Some people rely too heavily on them, thereby confusing their group’s collective knowledge as their own individual knowledge (Spoiler alert: this will cause huge problems come exam day!). Other people mistakenly believe one of the many myths about law school study groups, like that being in one will guarantee you good grades (Spoiler alert: it won’t if you don’t put in the work!). That said, study groups can be amazingly beneficial. Assuming you have considered the pros and cons of joining a study group (discussed here), and you have selected the best group conducive for studying (discussed here), below are three tips that will help you shine as the star of your study group. [Read more…] about How to be the Star of Your Study Group
Unconventional Networking Methods for Law Students
The word “networking” carries a certain connotation of apprehension. When mentioned to either law students or professionals, it invokes an uneasy feeling because it sounds like an awkward combination of sales (selling yourself, being sold to, or begging for a job), a bad blind date (being forced into awkward conversations and wondering if the sought-after party will ever call), and a giant, time-wasting activity (I networked for three hours, did not receive what I came for, and missed my spin class). Fortunately, technology has made networking a much more enjoyable experience. There are plenty of ways to network now. This post offers some of the less traditional approaches, as opposed to the methods we frequently hear mentioned in discussing ideas for networking. [Read more…] about Unconventional Networking Methods for Law Students
Podcast Episode 118: Learn about Animal Law with Pamela Hart at ALDF
Welcome to the Law School Toolbox Podcast! Today, we’re talking with Pamela Hart, Director of the Animal Law Program at the Animal Legal Defense Fund. Animal law is a growing practice area, and we’re excited to find out more about the work that is being done for animal rights and animal owners. Pamela also has some great general insights for people interested in pursuing public interest careers.
[Read more…] about Podcast Episode 118: Learn about Animal Law with Pamela Hart at ALDF
Staying Sane During The LLM Program
The LLM program is hectic. The days and classes go by, and it can all feel rather overwhelming. Keeping track of all the major events around your law school, coupled with the regular hours of class can make you feel tired at the end of the day. But take a step back, and reflect on a few key principles.
Buying The Bluebook: Spiral-bound or Online?
Among the many law school rites of passage, 1Ls everywhere will have to buy their copy of The Bluebook: A Uniform System of Citation. Whether your undergrad experience left you fluent in APA, MLA, or another citation style, only The Bluebook will do in law school. As its subtitle explains, The Bluebook is a uniform system of citation that will allow you to properly cite cases, statutes, and secondary sources in both the legal practice and academic writing. (For a great primer on The Bluebook, read Ben Nelson’s How to Get Answers From The Bluebook.) Whether your statute is from Iowa or Nigeria, whether you are citing the Federalist Papers or the latest blog, The Bluebook is your first and last stop for proper citation. You will have plenty of time to get acquainted with your Bluebook, but you have a choice – the traditional spiral-bound, print version or the online version? The choice is up to you, but here are some considerations: [Read more…] about Buying The Bluebook: Spiral-bound or Online?