Law

Exploring Your Options

Whether your interest in law is just beginning or has a long history, take the time to explore all your options. When asking yourself: “Do I want to go to law school?” also ask yourself:

• What is involved in the training of a lawyer?
• How long does it take?
• Am I cut out for this?
• Am I ready for the financial commitment?
• Could I find such work exciting and rewarding?
• Does working in this field support my beliefs and values?
• Will a career in law allow me to pursue my other life goals?
• What do I want to be doing 10, 20, 30 years from now?

No one should go to law school without researching and thinking through some possible career options. There will be plenty of opportunity to change your mind about career paths while you are in law school, so don’t worry about having everything figured out just so. Do keep in mind law school is very expensive, and the studies are rigorous and often intense. Knowing what you are getting into and why is very important.

Pre-Law Success at a Glance

As an undergraduate at Mount Holyoke you will have plenty of opportunity to explore what you like and what you are good at. Take advantage of all the resources and advising available to you. The CDC is here to help direct you and connect you to the opportunities that are right for you.

• Choose a major that suits your interests and in which you thrive academically
• Take courses that challenge you to think, write, and read analytically
• Get involved in campus and community activities in your areas of interest
• Read about current events
• Prepare well for the LSAT
• Find summer jobs or internships that help you explore/affirm your interest in studying law
• Talk to lawyers about the work they do
• Find a Mount Holyoke alumna mentorwho is a lawyer
• Get to know your professors and employers and make sure they know you well enough to write letters of recommendation on your behalf
• Submit your applications early in the application cycle
• Investigate your financing options early and apply for financial aid early in the admissions cycle