Storytime - VCU student looking for law school insights

#engagementstory

VCU STUDENT LOOKING FOR HELP APPLYING TO LAW SCHOOL

By MAX LEISTEN

I should highlight that this question from a student received five amazing, in-depth responses. But what stood our for me most is the feedback left by one of the alums who assisted.

When someone asks me what we do, I respond occasionally with “we are a service machine.” Because we make it simple for humans to do service — to give back to others. Which is incredibly fulfilling and arguably the greatest measure of one’s life.

That’s also what this alum said, and is re-affirms what we do here at Protopia. But also the countless alumni professionals in institutions across the world.

Thank you for what you do.

Max

The "ask"

Hi, my name is STUDENT and I am a junior at VCU. I am majoring in Political Science and Russian Studies.

I wanted to know any tips for applying to law school. What should I do to boost my chances of getting in? What are some extracurricular or job experiences that would look good? And what are some things that will separate me from others and interview well?

Thank you so much!

The "give" (one of four responses)

Hello STUDENT,

My name is ALUM and I am a 2011 graduate of the University of Massachusetts School of Law, and a 2005 graduate of VCU.

When I was a junior at VCU, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I knew I needed an advanced degree to better my chances of having a good income. Looking back, I would do the following things early on to increase my chances of getting into a Tier 1 or Tier 2 law school:

1) Join a pre-law club/organization – Joining a pre-law club will allow you to meet other pre-law students and hopefully an attorney who will mentor you. You’ll find out there are opportunities out there, but you must be relentless in finding them. Law school and the legal field is competitive. Network and stay in touch with your connections.

2) Do an internship in a law firm –
Finding the right internship takes time and determination. Sometimes, it’s not what you know, but who you know. Connect with the VCU’s career advisors to see if they know any attorneys in the area who are looking for interns. Be prepared to work for free.

3) Start studying for the LSAT – The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) is the gatekeeper to law school. Your test scores will determine which schools will consider your application and scholarships. If you are not a strong test taker, then consider an LSAT prep course. I took a course many years ago. It raised my score a few points, but not high enough to get into schools like Georgetown Law or George Mason Law.

Lastly, I want to encourage you to enhance your writing skills. Law school is nothing but reading and writing. Your writing skills will set you apart. Please remember to proofread everything you write. Your writing skills will either open the door or close the door to an opportunity.

Best to you as you finish your last two years at VCU!!

The feedback

 5/5

As it is great to hear positive feedback about one’s work, it is also an extremely positive experience to be able to help others. I believe that the greatest contribution of any person is in the assistance of others.

Protopia’s artificial intelligence technology makes it truly simple for everyone in your community to connect for advice and support. Without another app to sign up for or learn.

Delivering Alumni As A Service across the entire learner’s journey.

Welcome to the Future.

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