Month: September 2019

Mark Your Calendars: Week Sept 30th, Law School Fair Edition

2019 Law School Fair!

This year’s PLAS Law School Fair has arrived!! If you are interested in attending Law School, then this is the event for you! Stop by and meet with over 100 law schools in attendance from all over the country! This event is FREE and open to the public. Illinois juniors, seniors, and alumni considering law school are especially encouraged to attend.

The Fair will be held at the ARC–Activities and Recreation Center, 201 East Peabody Drive, Champaign, IL 61820 on October 3, 2019, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 

At the fair, you can:

      • Gather information about law schools that interest you.
      • Meet the people who will be reading your law school applications and make a good first impression on them.
      • Discover new law schools that would be a good fit for you. Visit our website here for a clickable list of attending law schools
      • Talk with admissions professionals about what qualities they seek in a candidate.
      • Collect some fun freebies and application fee waivers!

What to Wear and Bring: Dress is business casual. It is not necessary to bring a résumé, but some schools may accept them. Most schools will have a sign-in sheet for you to provide your contact information if you wish. Plan to bring: Pen, a notepad, and your questions about the schools and their programs!

Click here for more info including a list of schools scheduled to attend!

Pre-Law On-Campus Events

Law School Admissions Expert Panel – Wednesday, October 2, 7:00pm, 1002 Lincoln Hall

This panel features the law school admissions deans from the University of Illinois, Indiana University, St. Louis University, and the University of Texas-Austin!  Click here for more info!

Pre-Law 101 – Monday, Oct 14, 2019   4:00 – 5:00 pm

This workshop is designed for incoming students who are new to pre-law or are interested in learning more about it. All Illini are welcome.

We will cover: What it means to be pre-law at Illinois, course selection, majors, and extracurriculars, building a pre-law resume, and what law schools are really looking for. Click here to register

Go here to check out other upcoming PLAS Events!

Work-It-Wednesday: Connect with a FBI Recruiter

Undergraduate research Apprentice Program 

Program Description: The Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program (URAP@UI) offers undergraduate students with little or no research experience the opportunity to assist advanced graduate students with their research projects. Through a one-on-one research experience with their graduate student mentor, undergraduate students will have the opportunity to learn what it means to do research, create knowledge, and produce scholarship.

Undergraduate students selected to be part of the program will begin work with their mentors in Spring 2020. As part of the program, students will (1) attend regular weekly class meetings (GC 295, Introduction to Undergraduate Research, 3 credit hours) with OUR/Grad College instructors; and (2) work one-on-one with their graduate mentors, an average of 5-6 hours per week. As part of the course requirement, students will complete a final project, consisting of a poster, to be presented during “Undergraduate Research Week,” an annual event sponsored by OUR.

For more information about URAP, and to apply to the program, please visit our website: http://undergradresearch.illinois.edu/programs/urap.html

Informational Meetings

Informational meetings are scheduled for September 23, October 2, and October 8, from 3-3:50 pm in Noyes Laboratory Room 217. Get tips on creating a good statement of interest, why you should participate, and get your questions answered.

Application Deadline

Deadline for applications is October 15, 2019 at 11:59pm.

To apply, please visit: http://undergradresearch.illinois.edu/programs/urap.html

Law School/Legal Education Events

AccessLex, a nonprofit working to educate law students about the financial aspects of legal education, invites all who are interested to these free upcoming events. Click here to register and to view their full schedule.

    • The Road to Zero: A Strategic Approach to Student Loan Repayment–Sept. 30, 4:00 pm (EST)

    • Applying to Law School: A Strategic Approach Webinar – Oct. 1, 6:00 pm (EST)

Campus Internships

ATLAS Internships for all LAS majors. ATLAS internships help students in the College of LAS gain hands-on learning with technology and provide real tech experience. No specific GPA or tech experience required. To apply or for more details visit their website here.

Scholarship Opportunities

Check out the Illinois Office of Student Financial Aid for some great scholarship opportunities! There are so many scholarships to choose from including scholarship awarded ONLY to Illinois students! Everyone has a chance to win, so apply today. Click here for more information.

Office of Undergraduate Research

Proposal Writing in Undergraduate Research–Oct. 10th, 3:00-4:30 pm. This workshop will discuss the fundamentals of proposal writing, guiding students to formulate successful research projects and explain their research in a concise and compelling manner that is understandable to a general audience. Students will leave the workshop with (1) basic knowledge about research proposals and their structure, (2) tactics and tools to write successful research statements, and (3) a list of resources for assistance in the writing process.Visit the Office of Undergraduate Research website to register for the upcoming workshop options below.

Career Center https://www.careercenter.illinois.edu/

Handshake–Looking for internships, jobs, career fairs, networking receptions, or other professional opportunities? Handshake is where it’s at! All students, not just seniors, should set up an account and start checking in on a consistent basis to see what opportunities interest you. Set up your account here.

ALL students should utilize the Career Center’s services! They offer a variety of programs to help you identify career paths through workshops, career fairs and individual meetings. Click on the link above to view all of their offerings.

Here are some of their upcoming events:

      • Career Drop-In: October 1, 2019 – 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
      • Resume, Cover Letter, and Linked In Reviews are offered almost every day. Check the website for times and locations.

LSAT Writing Sample: What to Know

If you took the LSAT in June 2019 or later, then read on! The writing sample part of the LSAT has changed.

What is the LSAT writing sample? The writing sample portion of the LSAT is required but it is NOT scored. During this 35 minute timed portion, you will get a writing prompt and you’ll be asked to provide a written response. The prompts usually present two equally reasonable options. You will be asked to choose one and make a supported argument about why that option is preferable. Every law school to which you apply will receive your writing sample. This is intended to give them a sense of your competence with writing skills when you aren’t given the luxury of unlimited time and outside assistance. For an example of a writing sample topic and instructions, click here.

When do I take it? The LSAT writing sample used to be part of test day, but as of June 2019 it is done separately. LSAT takers will have one year after the LSAT to complete the writing sample. But you should know: Your LSAT score is not complete until the writing sample is submitted and processed. This means that none of your law school applications will be reviewed until your writing sample is complete.

What is the process like? After downloading the proctor software, you’ll take pictures with your computer showing your writing area so that it is clear you are not using forbidden materials like a dictionary. You will also take a picture of your government-issued photo ID to demonstrate that it’s really you taking the test. To learn more, click on the Get Acquainted With LSAT Writing link inside your CAS account.  Click here for more information about the LSAT writing sample, including FAQs.

Once the pictures are submitted, the writing prompt will launch, and you will have 35 minutes to respond. You’ll type your answer in a text box with limited formatting options…kind of like a very simplified version of Word.

How long will it take to be processed? According to the LSAC, the writing sample will likely be processed within a week of completion. However, it can take up to three weeks for processing, so you will want to take the writing sample at least 3 weeks prior to your planned law school application date.

Our advice: Take the writing sample within a week of taking the LSAT. (Just put a reminder in your calendar to make sure you don’t forget.) This way, the ENTIRE LSAT experience will be over and you can apply to law school as early as possible without the writing sample hanging over your head. Don’t wait until the day before your Early Decision deadline to take the writing sample! And don’t wait until months later, when you’re likely to forget all about it and think the LSAT is done. You will be so glad that the entire LSAT is behind you and you can then turn to other elements of the application.

Mark Your Calendars: Week of Sept. 23

Pre-Law Advising Services Events

Personal Statements & Resumes for Law School Applicants–This workshop is for those who are applying to law school in the next year or so (although all are welcome). We will discuss the personal statement and resume, including: what law schools are looking for, how to get started, what to include and exclude, and a sample plan for drafting them. This workshop is also offered several times throughout the semester.

      • Personal Statement & Resume Workshop–Sept. 23 at 4:00. Register here.

Meet us at the Majors & Minors Fair TODAY, Sept. 23 from 1:30 to 4:30 pm in the Illini Union Rooms A, B, C.

WHERE is my workshop? If you look at our Events Calendar you will see that many of our event locations have not yet been identified. Due to construction, locations of these events will be announced about a week before the events.  Please continue to check our PLAS Events Calendar and our posts on Facebook throughout the semester to make sure you know where your workshop is being held!

Coming soon…

Law School Admissions Expert Panel – Wednesday, October 2, 7:00pm, 1002 Lincoln Hall

This panel features the law school admissions deans from the University of Illinois, Indiana University, St. Louis University and the University of Texas-Austin!  Click here for more info!

Law School Fair – Thursday, October 3, 10am-2pm at the Activities and Recreation Center

Close to 100 law schools will be here to answer your questions!  Click here for more info including a list of schools scheduled to attend!

Go here to check out other upcoming PLAS Events!

Law School/Legal Education Events

University of Illinois College of Law Special Invitation–Peers Pub on Sept. 26, 4-5:30 at the College of Law.

The College of Law invites all interested pre-law students to their twice/month Peers Pub celebration on September 26, 2019 from 4-5:30.  Please feel free to stop by the College of Law to meet current law students, learn more information about applying to the College, see our updated classrooms, take a tour of the College, and receive light refreshments.  Tours and a classroom will be available from 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Harvard Law School Online Info Session

Interested in learning some tips about applying to Harvard Law School?  HLS has begun offering online information sessions.  Some concern the admissions process, others offer insight into campus life, student organizations, and clinical opportunities at HLS. Click here to register for these upcoming sessions, and to see the entire schedule. 

    • HLS Women’s Law Association–Sept. 24, 6:00-7:00 pm (EST)
    • Law, Science, and Technology–Sept. 26, 6:00-7:00 pm (EST)

AccessLex, a nonprofit working to educate law students about the financial aspects of legal education, invites all who are interested to these free upcoming events. Click here to register and to view their full schedule.

    • Financing Your Legal Education–Sept. 24, 7:00 pm (EST)
    • Applying to Law School: A Strategic Approach–Sept. 26, 1:00 pm (EST)
    • The Road to Zero: A Strategic Approach to Student Loan Repayment–Sept. 30, 4:00 pm (EST)

Campus Internships

ATLAS Internships for all LAS majors. ATLAS internships help students in the College of LAS gain hands-on learning with technology and provide real tech experience. No specific GPA or tech experience required. To apply or for more details visit their website here.

David F. Prindable Undergraduate Internship. This paid internship for undergrads in the Humanities (through the Illinois Program for Research in the Humanities) provides the chance to assist with communications strategies, particularly through email and social media. Visit their website here for more details and to apply. Deadline: Sept. 27.

Office of Undergraduate Research

Proposal Writing in Undergraduate Research–Sept. 25, 3:00-4:30 pm. This workshop will discuss the fundamentals of proposal writing, guiding students to formulate successful research projects and explain their research in a concise and compelling manner that is understandable to a general audience. Students will leave the workshop with (1) basic knowledge about research proposals and their structure, (2) tactics and tools to write successful research statements, and (3) a list of resources for assistance in the writing process.Visit the Office of Undergraduate Research website to register for the upcoming workshop options below.

Career Center https://www.careercenter.illinois.edu/

Handshake–Looking for internships, jobs, career fairs, networking receptions, or other professional opportunities? Handshake is where it’s at! All students, not just seniors, should set up an account and start checking in on a consistent basis to see what opportunities interest you. Set up your account here.

ALL students should utilize the Career Center’s services! They offer a variety of programs to help you identify career paths through workshops, career fairs and individual meetings. Click on the link above to view all of their offerings.

Here are some of their upcoming events:

      • ACES + LAS Career Fair–Sept. 26 from 1:30-6:00 pm at the ARC (Activities & Recreation Center)–Visit Handshake for more details, including the employers attending
      • Creating Your Powerful Resume and Cover Letter Workshop–Sept. 24, 4-5 pm
      • International Student Job Search Workshop–Sept. 27, 5-6 pm
      • Resume, Cover Letter, and Linked In Reviews are offered almost every day. Check the website for times and locations.

 

Got pre-law questions? Start with the PLAS Pre-Law Handbook!

Although we love meeting students and alumni, we know that these meetings would be more useful and productive for all of you if potential applicants and aspiring lawyers would take the time to review the great information in our PLAS Pre-Law Handbook.  The user-friendly formatted Handbook covers a wide range of issues of interest to pre-law students.  You should take a look at all of them.  This post will highlight 5 really popular topics.

1. Exploring Your Interest in Law – This is for everyone new to pre-law, whether you are a freshman, sophomore, junior, senior or alum!  This section helps you evaluate your interest in the law and whether it might be a good fit.  Some of the areas covered/links provided include: What is a JD? What do lawyers do? What are some good online resources on the law? We have also included links to podcasts on these topics. Click here  and then select the “Exploring Your Interest in Law” tab for more info.  You should also check out our “Pre-Law Student/Applicant Checklist” tab for a list of “to-dos” that will help you get a general picture of what being pre-law entails. Note-the first suggestion in this section is that you attend a Pre-Law 101 session.

2. Preparing for Law School – So you’ve decided that you are interested in pursuing law school and a legal career.  This section helps you decide what you need to do now to prepare for law school. Some of the topics covered/links provided include: How do I select a major? What skills do the law schools value? What kind of extracurricular activities should you consider? How do law schools consider grade replacement, credit/no credit, or withdrawals?  Click here  and then select the “Preparing for Law School” tab for more info.

3. Financing Law School – Law school is expensive!  In fact, the cost of attendance/COA (tuition plus other expenses) at three well-known law schools recently topped $100,000 per year!  How do you plan to pay for it?  How do you put yourself in the best position to receive scholarships from law schools?  Click here  and then select the “Financing Law School” tab for more info.

4. Understanding Admissions Criteria – So what exactly are law school admissions people looking for in a candidate?  To be sure, a strong GPA coupled with a good LSAT score is important.  But what about: volunteer experiences; internships that expose applicants to the practice of law; letters of recommendation? These are just some of the topics covered in this section of the handbook.  Click here  and then select the “Understanding Admissions Criteria” tab for more info.

5. Applying to Law School – This section covers all topics related to the process of and requirements for applying to law school.  Some of the topics covered/links provided include: What is “rolling admissions”? What is the LSAT and how do I study for it?  What do the law schools require that applicants submit with their applications? How do I put together a law school resume? Click here  and then select the “Applying to Law School” tab for more info. Note: this particular section of the handbook has a LOT of “sub” tabs within the section addressing all aspects of the application process.  Aspiring law school applicants should review all of them!

The point is – the PLAS Pre-Law Handbook is an excellent resource.  It is intended to be a comprehensive overview of what it means to be “pre-law.”  It is also interactive, easy to use, and constantly updated.  As such, it is always a very good place to begin to find answers to your pre-law questions.

Mark Your Calendars – Week of September 16

Pre-Law Advising Services Events

Pre-Law 101 workshops will introduce you to being pre-law at Illinois. Whether you are a new student or just new to pre-law, this is the best starting point for learning what to do to prepare for law school. We’ll answer all your questions about how to maximize your time at Illinois to become a great law school candidate. This workshop is offered several times throughout the semester.

      • Pre-Law 101 (for all students): Sept. 17 at 4:00. Register here.

Personal Statements & Resumes for Law School Applicants–This workshop is for those who are applying to law school in the next year or so (although all are welcome). We will discuss the personal statement and resume, including: what law schools are looking for, how to get started, what to include and exclude, and a sample plan for drafting them. This workshop is also offered several times throughout the semester.

      • Personal Statement & Resume Workshop–Sept. 23 at 4:00. Register here.

Meet us at the Majors & Minors Fair NEXT MONDAY, Sept. 23 from 1:30 to 4:30 pm in the Illini Union Rooms A, B, C.

WHERE is my workshop? If you look at our Events Calendar you will see that many of our event locations have not yet been identified. Due to construction, locations of these events will be announced about a week before the events.  Please continue to check our PLAS Events Calendar and our posts on Facebook throughout the semester to make sure you know where your workshop is being held!

Coming soon…

Law School Admissions Expert Panel – Wednesday, October 2, 7:00pm, 1002 Lincoln Hall

This panel features the law school admissions deans from the University of Illinois, Indiana University, St. Louis University and the University of Texas-Austin!  Click here for more info!

Law School Fair – Thursday, October 3, 10am-2pm at the Activities and Recreation Center

Close to 100 law schools will be here to answer your questions!  Click here for more info including a list of schools scheduled to attend!

Go here to check out other upcoming PLAS Events!

Campus Internships

ATLAS Internships for all LAS majors. ATLAS internships help students in the College of LAS gain hands-on learning with technology and provide real tech experience. No specific GPA or tech experience required. To apply or for more details visit their website here.

David F. Prindable Undergraduate Internship. This paid internship for undergrads in the Humanities (through the Illinois Program for Research in the Humanities) provides the chance to assist with communications strategies, particularly through email and social media. Visit their website here for more details and to apply. Deadline: Sept. 27.

Office of Undergraduate Research

Getting Started in Undergraduate Research workshop–Learn about various forms of undergraduate research on campus and how to get involved. Visit the Office of Undergraduate Research website to register for both upcoming workshop options below.

      • Sept. 18, 3:00-4:30 pm
      • Sept. 19, 3:00-4:30 pm
      • Sept. 20, 3:00-4:30 pm

Career Center https://www.careercenter.illinois.edu/

Handshake–Looking for internships, jobs, career fairs, networking receptions, or other professional opportunities? Handshake is where it’s at! All students, not just seniors, should set up an account and start checking in on a consistent basis to see what opportunities interest you. Set up your account here.

ALL students should utilize the Career Center’s services! They offer a variety of programs to help you identify career paths through workshops, career fairs and individual meetings. Click on the link above to view all of their offerings.

Here are some of their upcoming events:

      • Gies Business Career Fair – Wednesday, September 18 & Thursday, September 19, Activities and Recreation Center (ARC), 2-7pm
      • Career Drop-Ins (no appointment needed!)–Sept. 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20, 11 am-4 pm
      • Are You Career Ready? –Sept. 17, 5-6 pm
      • Global Careers: Peace Corps Informational Session–Sept. 17, 6-7 pm
      • Global Careers: Japan — Sept. 19, 12-1pm, The Career Center Interview Suite, Room 213
      • Global Careers: Canada — Sept. 20, 4-5:30pm, The Career Center Conference Room, 143
      • Resume, Cover Letter, and Linked In Reviews are offered almost every day. Check the website for times and locations.

Law Schools

Harvard Law School

Interested in learning some tips about applying to Harvard Law School?  HLS has begun offering online information sessions.  Some concern the admissions process, others offer insight into campus life, student organizations, and clinical opportunities at HLS. To sign up for this week’s J.D. Application Requirements and Insights session, set for TOMORROW, September 17, at 5:00pm Central Time, go here: https://jdadmissions.law.harvard.edu/register/JDInfoSession2-2019.  To see the full 2019-2020 HLS Online Information Session Schedule, click on this link: https://hls.harvard.edu/dept/jdadmissions/connect-with-admissions-online-events/

University of Illinois College of Law – Constitution Day 2019

On September 17, 1787, thirty-nine of the fifty-five delegates to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia signed the final draft of the U.S. Constitution. It then went to the states for ratification. Today, federal law designates September 17 as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. Each year, the College of Law hosts a special event on behalf of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to commemorate the occasion.

“The 2020 Presidential Election” – Tuesday, September 17, 2019
12-1 p.m., Room D, Law Building
504 E. Pennsylvania Avenue
Champaign, IL

Donald Trump made the Supreme Court a central issue of his 2016 presidential campaign and, as president, he has made two Supreme Court appointments. Candidates for president in 2020 are already announcing the kinds of justices they would appoint and weighing in on proposals to reform the Supreme Court such as by adding seats or imposing term limits. The Supreme Court views itself as above politics even as it decides cases that impact electoral outcomes–and might be called upon to resolve electoral disputes in 2020. Hear from a panel of experts on the significance of the Supreme Court in the 2020 presidential election and how the outcome of the election might impact the Court itself.

Panel Leaders: 

Vikram D. Amar, Dean & Iwan Foundation Professor of Law
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
College of Law

Jason Mazzone, Albert E. Jenner, Jr. Professor of Law
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
College of Law

Alicia B. Uribe-McGuire, Assistant Professor
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Department of Political Science

Event is free, and open to the public. Lunch will be provided to attendees.

 

Remaining LSAT options for this year’s law school applicants

If you are applying to law school to enter in Fall 2020, but you haven’t yet registered for an LSAT–this post is for you!

Both the September and October 2019 LSAT registration deadlines have passed. Here is a detailed comparison and discussion of remaining LSAT options for this year’s law school applicants.

November 25, 2019. Registration is currently open here for this LSAT and closes on October 10.

    • IF you are planning to apply to law school this cycle (to enter in Fall 2020), then this is the latest LSAT we advise taking. (Why? The next LSAT isn’t until January 2020, which is getting late in the cycle due to rolling admissions.) This LSAT may also be too late to apply Early Decision (ED); some ED programs require an LSAT score by mid-November. (Check the application of the law school you plan to apply ED to if you’re considering this option.)
    • This exam is on a Monday, but it’s also during our Fall Break, so current students won’t have to miss class. It may be necessary to miss work or other obligations.
    • This LSAT is not offered on our campus, so takers should plan to travel elsewhere. Registering as early as possible will help secure a seat at a strategic location near campus or near home, if you want to avoid hotel expenses.
    • For current students–This exam is very close to finals, and LSAT prep will need to be carefully balanced with academic performance throughout the fall semester.
    • This exam is disclosed, meaning that test takers will receive a full report of questions answered correctly and incorrectly.

January 13, 2020 LSAT. Registration is currently open here for this LSAT and closes on December 3.

    • This exam is possible for those who want to enter law school in fall of 2020, but it is getting late in the cycle. Remember that in a rolling admission cycle, law schools begin accepting people–and awarding their scholarships–in September.
    • LSAT takers who are applying to law school this cycle would be wise to complete all other elements of the application as soon as this exam is over in order to apply ASAP once scores are released.
    • This exam is on a Monday, but it falls during our Winter Break, so current students will not have to miss class. It may be necessary to miss work or other obligations.
    • This LSAT is not offered on our campus, so takers should plan to travel elsewhere. Registering as early as possible will help secure a seat at a strategic location near campus or near home, if you want to avoid hotel expenses.
    • This exam is nondisclosed, meaning that test takers will only receive a score and will not receive a report of questions answered correctly and incorrectly.

February 22, 2020 LSAT. Registration for this LSAT is currently open here and closes on January 7.

    • This exam is very late in the cycle for those who are applying to law school to enter in Fall 2020. Applicants may even miss some law school application deadlines by the time February scores are released; check the deadlines of law schools you’re applying to if considering this option.
    • This may be a great option for those who aren’t applying to law school this cycle (but planning to next year). Current students will have all of winter break to focus on LSAT prep. And, you’d be done with the LSAT before midterms–always a plus. You can spend the rest of the semester focused on your classwork.
    • This exam is on a Saturday, so current students don’t need to miss class. Alumni may not need to miss work, either, since it’s on a weekend.
    • This exam IS offered on our campus. Current students and local alumni can avoid travel costs and logistics.
    • This exam is nondisclosed, meaning that test takers will only receive a score and will not receive a report of questions answered correctly and incorrectly.

Whichever LSAT you choose, it’s recommended to register as soon as possible to ensure a seat. Some fall LSAT sites filled quickly.

Tutoring & Academic Resources for Pre-Law Students

Student question: What tutoring and academic resources are available at Illinois?

This is a GREAT question! Pre-law students know that their GPA and academic skills are very important for preparing for law school. Who can you turn to and where can you go if you find yourself needing some additional academic help or support?

A great first step: Talk to your TA/Professor. Ask them–they are the experts, after all–about tutoring, suggested resources, or other assistance they can provide.

A great next step: Talk to your academic advisor. S/he will have suggestions for campus resources that you might not know of, and s/he can talk to you about all of your class options such as electing credit/no credit, dropping a course, or changing sections.

How else can you find academic resources around campus? Check out these options.

ACES list of tutoring resources

DGS list of tutoring resources

LAS Academic Success Workshops

Spanish Tutoring Room

OMSA Tutoring

Writer’s Workshop

The Undergraduate Library offers services to help you become a better researcher and writer. From Subject Guides to Research and Writing Consultations to Workshops and this Citation Guide, they offer lots of opportunities for learning research skills.

RSOs—Registered Student Organizations about a particular subject or major are also helpful. You’ll meet other students whom you can ask about tutoring or resources in that subject. Not sure? Ask your academic advisor about clubs and organizations that are related to your department or college.

Khan Academy–Some Khan Academy subjects are helpful for college level courses, like AP resources (AP US Government, AP History, etc.), math, economics, finance, stats, chemistry, biology, and computer science.

 

 

 

 

Mark Your Calendars: Week of September 9

Check out this post for paid internships, pre-law events, career services workshops, and a lot more. Take a look!

Pre-Law Advising Services September Events

All of our events are listed in our Event Calendar here.

Pre-Law 101 workshops will introduce you to being pre-law at Illinois. Whether you are a new student or just new to pre-law, this is the best starting point for learning what to do to prepare for law school. We’ll answer all your questions about how to maximize your time at Illinois to become a great law school candidate. This workshop is offered several times throughout the semester.

      • Pre-Law 101 for Political Science Majors:  TODAY, Sept. 9 at 4:00. Register here.
      • Pre-Law 101 (for all students): Sept. 17 at 4:00. Register here.

Personal Statements & Resumes for Law School Applicants–This workshop is for those who are applying to law school in the next year or so (although all are welcome). We will discuss the personal statement and resume, including: what law schools are looking for, how to get started, what to include and exclude, and a sample plan for drafting them. This workshop is also offered several times throughout the semester.

      • Personal Statement & Resume Workshop–Sept. 23 at 4:00. Register here.

Meet us at the Majors & Minors Fair on Sept. 23 from 1:30 to 4:30 pm in the Illini Union Rooms A, B, C.

WHERE is my workshop? If you look at our Events Calendar you will see that many of our event locations have not yet been identified. Due to construction, locations of these events will be announced about a week before the events.  Please continue to check our PLAS Events Calendar and our posts on Facebook throughout the semester to make sure you know where your workshop is being held!

Connecting with Pre-Law Advising Services
How do we keep in touch? Blog, Facebook group, Twitter, email
The best way to keep up with pre-law news is to read this blog and join our Facebook group or follow us on Twitter (@UIUC Pre-Law). We send occasional emails but we don’t want to clog your inbox…so instead, we update this blog, Twitter and our Facebook page at least once a week.

Make an appointment online! BIG NEWS! We have just launched our brand new online appointment scheduling system!  Go here to schedule an appointment with an advisor.  And PLEASE be patient if you have any issues with the online process. If you do encounter problems, you can always call our office at 333-9669 to schedule an appointment.  Except please, if you’re sick, stay home in your jammies! You can call us at the appointment time if you really need to talk. Otherwise, please reschedule.

Want to get our PLAS emails? Just go to lists.illinois.edu, search for “prelaw” and add yourself with your @illinois.edu email address.  We typically only send one or two emails per week so that shouldn’t be a concern.  And if you change your mind later, you can always remove yourself from the list.

Coming Soon!! Save the date for the Law School Fair! On Thursday, October 3 from 10 am – 2 pm at the ARC!  Over 100 law school reps will be here to meet YOU! Click here for more details, including a list of who’s coming.

Campus Internships

ATLAS Internships for all LAS majors. ATLAS internships help students in the College of LAS gain hands-on learning with technology and provide real tech experience. No specific GPA or tech experience required. To apply or for more details visit their website here.

David F. Prindable Undergraduate Internship. This paid internship for undergrads in the Humanities (through the Illinois Program for Research in the Humanities) provides the chance to assist with communications strategies, particularly through email and social media. Visit their website here for more details and to apply. Deadline: Sept. 27.

Upcoming Campus Events

Illinois in Washington – Information Session – Tuesday, September 10, 5-6pm, Wohlers Hall 141.  Illinois in Washington (IIW) is an academic internship program open to all U of I undergraduates. Participants live and intern in Washington, DC, while taking U of I classes.  IIW offers an exceptional opportunity to gain rewarding work experience while enjoying the political, intellectual, and cultural experiences that only the nation’s capital can offer.  Student internships have included positions with members of Congress, think tanks, social justice organizations, and government agencies.  Learn more about IIW at an information session on September 10th, and apply to IIW by Oct. 1, 2019, at https://washington.illinois.edu/apply-now/.

Harvard Law School Online Information Session: J.D. Application Requirements and Insights
Thursday, September 12, 2019 at 6:00 PM until 7:00 PM Eastern Time. Join Admissions staff members for a deep dive into the application requirements and a discussion of common concerns that candidates face during the application process. We will also share advice on how to approach each section of the application.

Please register for this online information session at: https://harvard.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1fRHobnIS0mCNij-YvICsw. Note: This session will be hosted on Zoom. Full instructions on how to access the session will be sent to you after you have registered for the event.

Getting Started in Undergraduate Research workshop–Learn about various forms of undergraduate research on campus and how to get involved. Visit the Office of Undergraduate Research website to register for both upcoming workshop options below.

      • Sept. 10, 3:00-4:30 pm
      • Sept. 12, 3:00-4:30 pm
      • Sept. 13, 3:00-4:30 pm

National & International Scholarships is hosting the Churchill Scholarship Information Session.This scholarship requires one year of graduate study leading to a degree (generally a master’s) in engineering, mathematics, and/or the sciences at Cambridge University, England. U.S. citizens in their last year of undergraduate studies or who graduated with their undergraduate degree within the last 12 months are eligible to apply. A Kanders Churchill Scholarship is also available for a STEM student who wishes to pursue an MPhil in Public Policy at Cambridge.

    • Sep 13, 2019 3:00 – 4:00 pm at 807 S. Wright St., Floor 5, room 514

2019 Gies Business Fair: Wednesday, September 18, 2pm to 7pm and Thursday, September 19, 2pm to 7pm Activities & Recreation Center (ARC), 201 East Peabody Drive, Champaign, IL. Register on Handshake.

Native American House Welcome –  Thursday, September 12, 4:30–7 pm
1206 W. Nevada St., Urbana. For more information about the OIIR and their Welcome Back Days events, go here: https://oiir.illinois.edu/events/welcome-back-days-2019.

Career Center https://www.careercenter.illinois.edu/

Handshake–Looking for internships, jobs, career fairs, networking receptions, or other professional opportunities? Handshake is where it’s at! All students, not just seniors, should set up an account and start checking in on a consistent basis to see what opportunities interest you. Set up your account here.

ALL students should utilize the Career Center’s services! They offer a variety of programs to help you identify career paths through workshops, career fairs and individual meetings. Click on the link above to view all of their offerings.

Here are some of their upcoming events:

      • Career Drop-Ins (no appointment needed!)–Sept. 9, 11 am-4 pm
      • Career Certificate–International Students Info Session–Sept. 9, 4-5 pm
      • Resume, Cover Letter, and Linked In Reviews are offered almost every day. Check the website for times and locations.

10 Campus Resources Pre-Law Students Should Know

In addition to Pre-Law Advising Services, what other campus resources should pre-law students know? Here are 10. 

Handshake–Looking for internships, jobs, career fairs, networking receptions, or other professional opportunities? Handshake is where it’s at! All students, not just seniors, should set up an account and start checking in on a consistent basis to see what opportunities interest you. Set up your account here.

Illinois in Washington–Interested in working in public policy, for the federal government, or in politics? Illinois in Washington provides the opportunity for Illini to live and intern in Washington, DC during the fall, spring, or summer semester while taking Illinois classes. Spring 2020 applications due October 1. Visit the IIW website for more details.

Office of Undergraduate Research–Interested in getting research experience but don’t know how to get involved? OUR offers workshops, Ambassador and Apprentice programs, and research opportunities for undergrads. Great experience prior to any kind of graduate school. Explore their website here.

National and International Scholarships–This program administers nationally competitive awards for University of Illinois students and alumni. Opportunities include undergraduate and graduate study, research, and teaching—often in foreign countries.  Interested individuals—from freshmen to recent alumni—are encouraged to make an appointment to discuss these opportunities.

Illinois Library–It’s so much more than a place to study! From video recording equipment to private study rooms, research help, loanable technology, video games, graphic novels, to cookbooks and more, the University Libraries have amazing resources. Check out the Undergraduate Library’s website and blog for more details! Check out other campus libraries too.

Counseling Center–In addition to providing confidential counseling, the Counseling Center offers resources on academic success, test anxiety, study skills, time management, navigating personal relationships, substance abuse, and more.  Explore their resources.

Humanities Professional Resource Center–Did you know that a new campus resource is available for humanities majors? It’s the Humanities Professional Resource Center. Check out their website here, which contains LOTS of helpful information and links to great jobs and internships for humanities majors!

Life + Career Design Lab in LAS--This center provides assistance for exploring careers, planning study abroad, and just generally figuring out how to plan your career direction and life. Check out their website and resources.

Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment–iSEE promotes research and campuswide activities supporting sustainability and environmental concerns. From volunteer opportunities to relevant campus activities and student organizations, this is a great resources for students interested in environmental issues and activism. Check out their resources.

OIIR–Office of Inclusion & Intercultural Relations includes all of the campus cultural and resource centers. Did you know that every weekday on campus there is a free Lunch on Us event sponsored by OIIR? Visit the OIIR calendar and website to find a wide array of interesting and fun opportunities around campus.

These are just 10 of the many, MANY great resources on our campus!

 

 

 

Mark Your Calendars: Week of September 3

You’ll want to scroll through–this post includes: paid internships, a part-time campus job fair, pre-law events, career services workshops, and a lot more. Take a look!

Pre-Law Advising Services September Events

All of our events are listed in our Event Calendar here.

Meet us at the Political Science Fair on Sept. 5 from 2-4:30 on the 4th floor of David Kinley Hall.

Pre-Law 101 workshops will introduce you to being pre-law at Illinois. Whether you are a new student or just new to pre-law, this is the best starting point for learning what to do to prepare for law school. We’ll answer all your questions about how to maximize your time at Illinois to become a great law school candidate. This workshop is offered several times throughout the semester.

      • Pre-Law 101 for Political Science Majors: Sept. 9 at 4:00. Register here.
      • Pre-Law 101 (for all students): Sept. 17 at 4:00. Register here.

Personal Statements & Resumes for Law School Applicants–This workshop is for those who are applying to law school in the next year or so (although all are welcome). We will discuss the personal statement and resume, including: what law schools are looking for, how to get started, what to include and exclude, and a sample plan for drafting them. This workshop is also offered several times throughout the semester.

      • Personal Statement & Resume Workshop–Sept. 23 at 4:00. Register here.

Meet us at the Majors & Minors Fair on Sept. 23 from 1:30 to 4:30 pm in the Illini Union Rooms A, B, C.

WHERE is my workshop? If you look at our Events Calendar you will see that many of our event locations have not yet been identified. Due to construction, locations of these events will be announced about a week before the events.  Please continue to check our PLAS Events Calendar and our posts on Facebook throughout the semester to make sure you know where your workshop is being held!

Connecting with Pre-Law Advising Services
How do we keep in touch? Blog, Facebook group, Twitter, email
The best way to keep up with pre-law news is to read this blog and join our Facebook group or follow us on Twitter (@UIUC Pre-Law). We send occasional emails but we don’t want to clog your inbox…so instead, we update this blog, Twitter and our Facebook page at least once a week.

Make an appointment online! BIG NEWS! We have just launched our brand new online appointment scheduling system!  Go here to schedule an appointment with an advisor.  And PLEASE be patient if you have any issues with the online process. If you do encounter problems, you can always call our office at 333-9669 to schedule an appointment.  Except please, if you’re sick, stay home in your jammies! You can call us at the appointment time if you really need to talk. Otherwise, please reschedule.

Want to get our PLAS emails? Just go to lists.illinois.edu, search for “prelaw” and add yourself with your @illinois.edu email address.  We typically only send one or two emails per week so that shouldn’t be a concern.  And if you change your mind later, you can always remove yourself from the list.

Coming Soon!! Save the date for the Law School Fair! On Thursday, October 3 from 10 am – 2 pm at the ARC!  Over 100 law school reps will be here to meet YOU! Click here for more details, including a list of who’s coming.

Campus Internships

Paid Legal Internship–Due Sept. 4. The Office of University Counsel is hiring 2-3 undergrad student interns for 2019-2020. This paid position provides administrative support to the office, and interns will gain experience working in a legal environment and will also be introduced to legal procedures with the possibility of increased responsibilities over time. Click the link below for the full job description and instructions on how to apply. Deadline to submit applications is 5:00 pm on Sept. 4! Counsel’s Office Internship 8.19

ATLAS Internships for all LAS majors. ATLAS internships help students in the College of LAS gain hands-on learning with technology and provide real tech experience. No specific GPA or tech experience required. To apply or for more details visit their website here.

David F. Prindable Undergraduate Internship. This paid internship for undergrads in the Humanities (through the Illinois Program for Research in the Humanities) provides the chance to assist with communications strategies, particularly through email and social media. Visit their website here for more details and to apply. Deadline: Sept. 27.

 

Upcoming Campus Events

Illinois Part-time Job Fair 2019 – Tuesday, September 3, 10am-2pm, Illini Union. Looking for a part-time job on campus or in the Champaign-Urbana community? This is the event for you! The Illinois Part-Time Job Fair is open to all students on campus seeking opportunities to make some extra money while completing their academics. Opportunities at this fair are paid positions. Check out the event in Handshake to view a full list of employers attending! https://app.joinhandshake.com/career_fairs/10519/employer_preview

Illinois Abroad Day IAGE_IAD19_Flyer will happen over campus Sept. 4 from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. During this event you can explore programs abroad, talk to returnees, and learn more about the study abroad process. Click on the Flyer link above for more details about where and when these events will be throughout the day!

Research Park Block Party–Sept. 4, 5-6:30 pm at 1801 S First St, Champaign (on the lawn of the Atkins Building). Exploring your career? Research Park can help with your next step. Stop by Research Park’s Block Party this September 4 to speak to company representatives from the largest tech hub on campus. It’s like networking- only better. Leave your resume at home and come casually dressed for this chance to mingle informally with fellow students and professionals right here on campus. There will be appearances from companies like Proctor & Gamble Smart Lab, AGCO Acceleration Center, and Riverbed Technology. We will be serving free food, hosting fun activities, and giving students an inside look at the Research Park.

Getting Started in Undergraduate Research workshop–Learn about various forms of undergraduate research on campus and how to get involved. Visit the Office of Undergraduate Research website to register for both upcoming workshop options below.

      • Sept. 4, 3:00-4:30 pm
      • Sept. 6, 3:00-4:30 pm

National & International Scholarships is hosting 2 upcoming Gilman Scholarship Info Sessions. The Gilman International Scholarship Program provides awards of $5,000 (plus up to a $3,000 supplement for critical languages) for U.S. citizen undergraduate students to pursue summer, semester, or academic-year study abroad opportunities in other countries. For more details visit their website.

      • Gilman Scholarship Info Sessions:
        • Sept. 5, 3:30-4:30, 1002 Lincoln Hall
        • Sept. 6, 3:00-4:00, Illini Union Bookstore Building (807 S Wright St), Room 514

Need professional clothes? Suit-Up on Sept. 8!

Asiantation – Sunday, September 8th, 4–7pm, SDRP Multipurpose Room (2nd floor) 301 E. Gregory Dr., Champaign. For twenty five years, students have been producing “Asiantation,” a new student-welcoming program and resource handbook to introduce first year students, transfer students, as well as graduate and professional students to the Asian and Asian American campus community and resources. Learn more about AAPI student organizations and see how you can get involved.

Illinois in Washington – Information Session – Tuesday, September 10, 5-6pm, Wohlers Hall 141.  Illinois in Washington (IIW) is an academic internship program open to all U of I undergraduates. Participants live and intern in Washington, DC, while taking U of I classes.  IIW offers an exceptional opportunity to gain rewarding work experience while enjoying the political, intellectual, and cultural experiences that only the nation’s capital can offer.  Student internships have included positions with members of Congress, think tanks, social justice organizations, and government agencies.  Learn more about IIW at an information session on September 10th, and apply to IIW by Oct. 1, 2019, at https://washington.illinois.edu/apply-now/.

Native American House Welcome –  Thursday, September 12, 4:30–7 pm
1206 W. Nevada St., Urbana. For more information about the OIIR and their Welcome Back Days events, go here: https://oiir.illinois.edu/events/welcome-back-days-2019.

Career Center https://www.careercenter.illinois.edu/

Handshake–Looking for internships, jobs, career fairs, networking receptions, or other professional opportunities? Handshake is where it’s at! All students, not just seniors, should set up an account and start checking in on a consistent basis to see what opportunities interest you. Set up your account here.

ALL students should utilize the Career Center’s services! They offer a variety of programs to help you identify career paths through workshops, career fairs and individual meetings. Click on the link above to view all of their offerings.

Here are some of their upcoming events:

      • Career Drop-Ins (no appointment needed!)–Sept. 3, 11 am-4 pm
      • Acing Your Interview Workshop–Sept. 4, 4:30-5:30 pm
      • Career Certificate–International Students Info Session–Sept. 6, 5-6 pm
      • Resume, Cover Letter, and Linked In Reviews are offered almost every day. Check the website for times and locations.