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February 1: SAVE THE DATE! Undergraduate Research Symposium |April 27. The student application to present is live, click here for more information. The application deadline is March 10, 2023.

February 1: DON’T FORGET! Sign up for TRIALS 2023 with NYU School of Law today | Click here for more information.

February 1: DEADLINE! Last Day to Register for the LSAC Digital Law School Forum | For more information, click here.

February 1: DEADLINE! USLAW Law School Diversity Scholarship | For more information, click here.

February 1: Apply to work at the Leadership Center! | Applications are due February 6. For more information and to apply, click here.

February 1: Register for CLEO Connections programs! | All workshops are held on February 25. Click here for more information.

February 1: Washington & Lee Law Virtual Admissions Wednesdays | 9:30 am – 2:30 pm. Take the opportunity to speak with an admission representative, a current student, or join a thematic group session every Wednesday. For more information, click here.

February 1: LSAT scores released.

February 1: Washington & Lee Law Group Zoom Conversations: General Information Session | 11:00 am. For more information and to attend, click here.

February 1: LSAT Jumpstart Session One: LSAT overview by LSAC | 4:30 pm. For more information, click here.

February 2: Gilman Scholarship Info Session | 3:30 in 514 IUB. For more information, click here.

February 2: AccessLex Webinar – Choosing a Law School | 5:00 pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

February 3: DEADLINE! Last day to sign up for Barnes and Thornburg LLP Prelaw Scholars Program | For more information and to apply, click here.

February 3: Gilman Scholarship Info Session | 9am on Zoom. Additional workshop session at 3:00 pm in 514 IUB. For more information, click here.

February 3: Pre-Law 101 Session Two | 12:00 pm on Zoom. For more information and to attend, click here.

February 3: LSAC Digital Law School Forum | 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm ONLINE. Register by February 1. For more information, click here. (Deadline to register is February 1)

February 4: UIC Law Open House | 9:30 am – 12:30 pm in-person and online. For more information, click here.

February 4: LSAT Jumpstart Session Two: Practice LSAT with TestMasters | 10:00 am. For more information, click here.

February 4: Princeton Review LiveOnline LSAT 165+ Guarantee* Course | 5:00 pm or 8:00 pm ONLINE until April 4th. For more information, click here.

February 5: Princeton Review LiveOnline LSAT 165+ Guarantee* Course | 8:00 am, 12:00 pm, or 2:00 pm until June 4th. For more information, click here.

February 6: DEADLINE! LSAT Study Group Sign-Ups | For more information, click here.

February 6: DEADLINE! Last day to apply to work with the Leadership Center for the 2023-2024 academic year | For more information and to apply, click here.

February 6: LSAT Jumpstart Session Three: Logic Games Workshop with TestMasters | 5:30 pm. For more information, click here.

February 7: Counseling Center In Focus Workshops | 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm. For more information, click here.

February 7: Finding an Internship | 5:00 pm at Career Center Suite 213. For more information, click here.

February 7: AccessLex Webinar – Applying to Law School | 7:00 pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

February 8: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 5:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

February 8: LSAT Jumpstart Session Four: Reading Comprehension, Logical Reasoning, and Peer Perspectives | 5:30 pm. For more information, click here.

February 9: Join Asian Pre-Law Association (APLA)! | Rolling admissions for Spring 2023. For more information, click here.

February 9: AccessLex Webinar – Applying to Law School: A Strategic Approach For Underrepresented Students | 11:00 am ONLINE. For more information, click here.

February 9: Research Bites: Crafting a Successful Email to a Prospective Research Mentor | 12:00 pm – 12:15 pm in IUB 514. Additional session from 12:30 pm – 12:45 pm. For more information and to register, click here.

February 10: DEADLINE! Texting and Driving Prevention Scholarship | For more information, click here.

February 10: University of Wisconsin-Madison Pre-Law Diversity Conference and Law Fair 2023 | February 10 from 9:00 am – 2:30 pm at the University of Wisconsin Law School. Click here to register.

February 10: UHLC Pre-Law Pipeline Program | 12:00 pm ONLINE. For more information and to attend, click here.

February 10-11: February LSAT – Best of luck to everyone taking the LSAT this weekend!

February 13: DEADLINE! Last day to register for The Illinois Leadership Center Imprint i-Program! | To register, click here.

February 13: Princeton Review LiveOnline LSAT 165+ Guarantee* Course | 8:00 am, 11:00 am, or 5:00 pm until April 5th. For more information, click here.

February 13: Using and Creating a LinkedIn Profile | 12:00 pm on Zoom. For more information and to register, click here.

February 14: Counseling Center In Focus Workshops | 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm. For more information, click here.

February 14: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 4:00 pm in Lincoln Hall. For more information, click here.

February 14: Acing Your Interview | 5:00pm at Career Center Suite 213. For more information, click here.

February 14: Don’t Wanna Be… All by Myself: Managing Loneliness | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

February 15: DEADLINE! Illinois in Washington Summer 2023 Washington, DC Internships | For more information and to apply, click here.

February 15: DEADLINE! Melmed Law Group Scholarship | For more information, click here.

February 15: DEADLINE! Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholarship | For more information, click here.

February 15: Washington & Lee Law Group Zoom Conversations: Student Life and Campus Activities | 11:00 am. For more information, click here.

February 15: LAS Success Workshop: Econ | 3:00 pm in 1090 Lincoln Hall. For more information, click here. Additional workshops for other majors/courses can be found here.

February 15: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 5:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

February 16: Cornell Prelaw Program in Paris Virtual Information Session | 4:00 pm. To attend, click here.

February 16: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 4:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

February 17: Voyager Scholarship Info Session | 4:00 pm in 1022 Lincoln Hall. For more information, click here.

February 18: Diversity Open House with Chicago-Kent College of Law | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm ONLINE. For more information and to register, click here.

February 18: NC Diversity Law Day | 11:00am – 4:00 pm at Elon University School of Law. For more information, click here.

February 20: Counseling Center’s Perfectionism Series | 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

February 20: Law School Scholarships: A Law School Admissions Perspective | 5:30 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

February 21: Counseling Center In Focus Workshops | 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm. For more information, click here.

February 21: Speaking Center Workshop: Coping with Speech Anxiety | 3:30 pm at Main Library 106. For more information, click here.

February 21: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 4:00 pm in Lincoln Hall. For more information, click here.

February 21: Taking Control of Worry Thoughts: I Am the Captain | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

February 21: AccessLex Webinar – An Introduction to Personal Finance for First-Generation Students | 7:00 pm ONLINE. For more information and to attend, click here.

February 22: University of Idaho College of Law Virtual Info Session | For more information, click here.

February 22: Prospective Student Webinar | 12:00 pm on Zoom. For more information and to attend, click here.

February 22: Counseling Center’s Test Anxiety Program | 4:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

February 22: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 6:00 pm in Mumford Hall. For more information, click here.

February 23: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 4:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

February 23: SAPLA Virtual Diversity Law Symposium| 5:00 pm – 7:00pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

February 23: Creating a Powerful Resume | 5:00 pm at Career Center Suite 213. For more information, click here.

February 23-24: The Midwestern Region of the National Black Law Students Association (MWBLSA) Regional Convention | All day at the JW Marriott in Chicago. For more information, click here.

February 25: CLEO Connections’ Road To Law School | For college freshmen. For more information, click here.

February 25: CLEO Connections’ Sophomore Super Saturdays | For college Sophomores. For more information, click here.

February 25: CLEO Connections’ Juniors Jumpstart the LSAT | For college juniors. For more information, click here.

February 25: Illinois Leadership Center Imprint i-Program | 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. For more information, click here.

February 26: DEADLINE! Alumnae Panhellenic Association of Washington DC Scholarship | For more information, click here.

February 27: Counseling Center’s Perfectionism Series | 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

February 28: SAVE THE DATE! Yale Law School Launchpad Scholars Program | Applications open on March 6 and close on June 4. Click here to learn more.

February 28: DEADLINE! Apply to American Indian Law Center Summer Program by March 17! | Click here to apply.

February 28: DEADLINE! Know Your Rights Scholarship | For more information, click here.

February 28: DEADLINE! Mental Health System Reform Scholarship | For more information, click here.

February 28: DEADLINE! Price Benowitz Social Justice Scholarship |For more information, click here.

February 28: DEADLINE! Divorce Stigma Scholarship | For more information, click here.

February 28: DEADLINE! Fair Divorce Legislation Scholarship | For more information, click here.

February 28: Counseling Center In Focus Workshops | 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm. For more information, click here.

February 28: Counseling Center EVERYbody Project Workshop | 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm. Location is given upon registration. For more information, click here.

February 28: The Unofficial Guide to Safe Substance Use | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

Alumni Attorney Talks is a virtual series that aims to provide prospective law students with helpful insights about attending law school and pursuing a legal career. This series features interviews with University of Illinois alumni working in a variety of diverse settings within the legal profession.

GAETANO URGO

Associate attorney at davis & Campbell, LLC

focusing on litigation, in the areas of management-side labor and employment matters, municipal law, and corporate law

QUICK FACTS ABOUT Mr. Gaetano Urgo

• Law School: DePaul University College of Law
• UIUC Undergraduate Major: Political Science and Philosophy
• Mr. Urgo’s Three Words to Describe his Profession:

Result | Driven | Lawyering

Happy New Year Illini! We are looking forward to a great spring semester!

Below please see a list of important dates, upcoming events, and reminders for January 2023 and the beginning of the spring semester!

January 1: SAVE THE DATE! University of Wisconsin-Madison Pre-Law Diversity Conference and Law Fair 2023 | February 10 from 9:00 am – 2:30 pm at the University of Wisconsin Law School. Register today, click here.

January 1: Undergraduate Research Symposium | The student application is now live, click here for more information. The application deadline is March 10, 2023.

January 2: DEADLINE! I AM READY: Law Admission Readiness Program co-hosted with the University of Illinois College of Law | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 3: Boren Scholarship Priority Deadline | For more information, click here.

January 3: The Edwards Law Firm Community First Scholarship | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 5: Special Event! PLAS Pre-Law for Parents | 6:00 pm on Zoom. For more information and to register, click here.

January 5: WashULaw “Work With Me Application Workshop” |12:00 pm ONLINE. For more information and to register, click here.

January 5: WashULaw Open House |5:00 pm. For more information, click here.

January 5: Sage IT College/University Scholarship | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 8: NEW Internship Opportunity! Law 199 – Tolerance Means Dialogue Internship | For more information, view the flyer here or visit the website here. For questions, please email Prof. Wilson (wils@illinois.edu) and CC Roxana Madani (rmadan3@illinois.edu).

January 9: Cooley Diversity Fellowship | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 10: Application Roadmap Workshop |1:00 pm. For more information and to register, click here.

January 12: UK Summer Fulbright Scholarship Information Session | 3:30 pm on Zoom. For more information and to register, click here.

January 13: Cardozo Law Virtual Information Session on the May Entry Program |12:00 pm – To learn more and register, click here. To view the flyer, click here.

January 13-14: January LSAT – Best wishes to everyone taking the LSAT this weekend!

January 15: May Firm Bi-annual Scholarship Fund, Spring Deadline | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 15: Mensa Foundation College Scholarship Program Application Deadline | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 17: First Day of Instruction – Spring 2023. Welcome back!

January 17: Cornell University Prelaw Summer Program in Paris Information Session | 12:00 pm ONLINE. For more information and to register, click here.

January 17: Beinecke Scholarship Campus Deadline | For more information, click here.

January 17: Boren Scholarship Campus Deadline | For more information, click here.

January 17: Ascent Law LLC Scholarship Deadline | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 18: Idaho Law – Virtual Info Session| For more information and to register, click here.

January 18: Washington & Lee Law – Group Conversations on Zoom| 11:00 am – For more information and to register, click here.

January 19: University of Cincinnati Law – Virtual Ask Admissions Event | 11:15 am – 12:00 pm ONLINE. For more information and to register, click here.

January 21: Registration Open: North Carolina Diversity Law Day | Hosted at Elon University School of Law | February 18, 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm Eastern Time – IN PERSON. For more information and to register, click here.

January 23: Add/Drop Deadline for POTA (1st 8-Week) Courses – be sure to check out the Spring 2023 Course Recommendation chart if you are still looking for classes!

January 24: The OVC, INC. “Market Yourself” Scholarship Deadline | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 25: Leadership Project Lecture, featuring Carl Bergetz, Chief Legal Officer for Rush University System for Health | 12:30 pm – 1:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

January 25: Washington & Lee Law – Virtual Admission Wednesdays, weekly Zoom sessions for prelaw students | For more information, click here.

January 27: Pre-Law 101 Session One Workshop | 12:00 pm. For more information and to register, click here.

January 27: Sign up for Barnes and Thornburg LLP Prelaw Scholars Program! | Applications are due February 3rd at 11:59pm. For more information and to apply, click here.

January 28: Virginia Diversity Day 2023 | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm ONLINE. To learn and register, click here.

January 29: Registration Open: Illinois Leadership Center Imprint i-Program| For more information, click here.

January 30: Deadline to Add POT 1 (full semester) Courses

January 30: Udall Scholarship Campus Deadline | For more information, click here.

January 30: Register for CLEO Connections’ Road To Law School | For college freshmen, choose between two dates. For more information, click here.

January 30: Register for CLEO Connections’ Sophomore Super Saturdays | Select between two dates. For more information, click here.

January 30: Register for CLEO Connections’ Juniors Jumpstart the LSAT | Select between two dates. For more information, click here.

January 31: Advocates Scholarship, Fall Deadline | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 31: Apply to work at the Leadership Center! | Applications are due February 6. For more information and to apply, click here.

January 31: Morgan Law Group Legal Scholarship Deadline | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 31: Arthur Lockwood Beneventi Law Scholarship Deadline | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 31: DDRB Lawyers Legal Scholarship Deadline | For more information and to apply, click here.

January 31: The Start of Something New: Creating Healthy Relationships | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

Alumni Attorney Talks is a virtual series that aims to provide prospective law students with helpful insights about attending law school and pursuing a legal career. This series features interviews with University of Illinois alumni working in a variety of diverse settings within the legal profession.

ANDREW GORDON

President and MANAGING ATTORNEY AT GORDON LAW GROUP

CONCENTRATING ON TAX CONTROVERSY AND COMPLIANCE, CRYPTOCURRENCY LAW, FTC DEFENSE, INTERNET LAW, AND CORPORATE LITIGATION

Learn more about the Gordon Law Group here.

QUICK FACTS ABOUT ANDREW GORDON

• Law School: Chicago-Kent College of Law
• UIUC Undergraduate Major: Accounting
• Mr. Gordon’s Three Words to Describe his Profession:

Rewarding|Strenuous|Cutting-Edge

Social justice is at the forefront of many things, and with good reason. In fact, more and more law school admission professionals have indicated an increase in student applications reflecting interest in pursuing a law career to become social justice advocates.

But what does it mean to be a social justice advocate? And, more specifically, what does social justice mean in the legal context? How can you, as a future attorney, gather the skills and information necessary to become the social justice advocate you desire to be?

This post explores what it looks like to be a social justice advocate and a practicing attorney.

Defining Social Justice

Merriam-Webster defines social justice as “a state or doctrine of egalitarianism.” Britannica states that “social justice, in contemporary politics, social science, and political philosophy, the fair treatment and equitable status of all individuals and social groups within a state or society.” The term also is used to refer to social, political, and economic institutions, laws, or policies that collectively afford such fairness and equity and is commonly applied to movements that seek fairness, equity, inclusion, self-determination, or other goals for currently or historically oppressed, exploited, or marginalized populations.

The term appears (although not defined) in The Federalist Papers No. 7. You can also find elements of social justice in theories such as Critical Race Theory, Motivational Interviewing, and Baxter-Magolda’s Theory of Self-Authorship.

In the legal sense, the definition is similar: “Social justice is justice that follows the principle that all individuals and groups are entitled to fair and impartial treatment. Social justice attempts to prevent human rights abuses. Social justice is based on notions of equality and equal opportunity in society. It focuses on the full and equal participation of all citizens in economic, social, and political aspects of the nation. Social justice can also refer to advantages and disadvantages distributed in a society.” (emphasis added)

Social justice is focused on justice, fair and impartial treatment, equality, and equal opportunity, and preventing abuses based on social injustices.

Principles/Goals of Social Justice

As you continue to understand what social justice means to you, consider the following articulated principles/goals of social justice as presented by GenV and Kent State:

• Human Rights
• Access
• Participation
• Equity
• Diversity

Do any of these principles stand out to you? How do you see yourself advancing social justice issues within these categories? How can a law degree and career as an attorney support your goals of social justice through some or all of these lenses?

Lawyers and Social Justice

Based on the definitions and principles listed above, you can see clear themes emerging around how an individual perceives social justice. Understanding what social justice means is important in figuring out how you want to contribute towards social justice causes through your law school and legal careers.

Here are some examples of social justice issues that intersect with the law highlighted by the advocacy organization Pachamama:

• Voting Laws (i.e. redistricting and voter ID)
• Policing Laws (i.e. search and seizure and drug scheduling)
• Environmental Laws (i.e. clean water and air, industrial waste disposal)
• Health Care Laws (i.e. insurance mandates and coverage eligibility)
• Education Laws (i.e. public school segregation and integration)
• Labor Laws (i.e. worker’s rights, occupational health and safety)

The reality is social justice efforts inform almost all aspects of society and the human experience ranging from Climate Justice to Healthcare to Racial Justice to LGBTQIA+ Oppression to Sizeism to Ageism to Hunger and Food Insecurity. You can explore these areas here: 10 Social Justice Issues of 2022. Understanding what the role of law and the legal system is within these causes is important to understanding if a law degree and legal career is right for you.

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Social Justice and You

If social justice is a big reason why you want to attend law school and practice law, it will be important that you give the concept some thought; especially if you cite this in your personal statement. Review the definitions listed above and research your own. Use the examples provided to paint a picture in your mind about what being a social justice advocate means to you.

As you develop your goals, be sure to explore the ways in which attorneys work within the universe of social justice causes that are of most interest to you.  Are they helping to create policy?  Do they represent clients, who are these clients?  What type of legal matters or issues require attorney representation? Do you see yourself advocating for these causes through your full-time work or perhaps your pro bono work? How can you weave your passion for social justice into your life?

Law Schools + Social Justice:

Law Schools strive to educate future attorneys who are ready to work on the most pressing legal issues and challenges in our society. As a result, law schools are continually evolving, reflecting on their curriculums and missions to ensure they are offering opportunities to learn in areas most relevant for attorneys today. As legal education continues to evolve and adapt, many law schools have expanded to include curricular offers that specifically offer learning opportunities on social justice topics, including clinics! Be sure to learn about these opportunities at law schools you are interested in.

As you look to the future, continue to refine what social justice means to you and how you could use your skills and experiences to advance a social justice cause, through your legal career, in a way that is meaningful to you.

To help you get started, check out the article “Top Schools Schools for Racial Justice” found in the Fall 2022 Edition of PreLaw Magazine or stop by the PLAS office and pick up a copy of the full magazine.

December is finally here and with it the final weeks of the semester! Our best wishes as you complete your end-of-semester tasks, prepare for finals, and set goals for winter break!

Below please see a list of important dates, upcoming events, and reminders for December 2022!

December 1: Strategies for Spring Application Success | 12:00 pm on Zoom. For more information and to register, click here.

December 1: Apply for TRIALS 2023 Hosted by NYU School of Law | For more information, click here.

December 1: DEADLINE! Last day to register for the January LSAT | Register here.

December 1: DEADLINE! Larson Law Office Scholarship | For more information, click here.

December 1: DEADLINE! Goodman Acker Law School Scholarship | For more information, click here.

December 1: DEADLINE! Future Lawyer Scholarship | For more information, click here.

December 1: DEADLINE! Avalaunch Media Scholarship | For more information, click here.

December 1: DEADLINE! Embry Law Firm Scholarship | For more information, click here.

December 2: SAVE THE DATE! University of Wisconsin-Madison Pre-Law Diversity Conference and Law Fair 2023 | February 10 from 9:00 am – 2:30 pm at the University of Wisconsin Law School. Register today, click here.

December 3: Undergraduate Research Symposium | The student application is now live, click here for more information. The application deadline is March 10, 2023.

December 5: AccessLex Webinar – Applying to Law School | 2:00 pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

December 5: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

December 6: AccessLex Webinar – Building Your Law School Budget | 11:00 am ONLINE. For more information, click here.

December 6: Test Anxiety Program | 6:00 pm on Zoom. For more information and to attend, click here.

December 6: Motivation…Where Art Thou? Finding Motivation in the Midst of Finals | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

December 7: Last day of instruction, fall semester.

December 7: University of Chicago Law School: Admissions Webinar | 12:00 pm ONLINE. Click here to register.

December 7: I AM READY Program Information Session | 4:00pm on Zoom. For more information and to attend, click here.

December 7: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

December 7: AccessLex Webinar – Applying to Law School: A Strategic Approach For Underrepresented Students | 7:00 pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

December 8: Reading Day

December 8: Harvard Law Virtual Q&A | 7:00 pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

December 8: Roosevelt University Paralegal Studies Program Online Information Session | 6:00 pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

December 8: UK Summer Fulbright Information Session | 3:30 pm in 1027 Lincoln Hall. For more information, click here.

December 9 – 16: Final examination period. Good luck to all our UIUC pre-law students!

December 9: University of Houston Law Center Pre-Law Pipeline Program | 12:00 pm on Zoom. To attend, click here.

December 12: SLU Law – Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Legal Profession | 12:00 pm-12:45 pm on Zoom. For more information and to register, click here.

December 12: AccessLex Webinar – Choosing a Law School | 2:00 pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

December 13: Loyola Chicago JD Information Session | 1:30 pm on Zoom. For more details and to attend, click here.

December 14: AccessLex Webinar – Paying for Law School | 7:00 pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

December 15: DEADLINE! Tilem & Associates, P.C. Scholarship | For more information, click here.

December 15: DEADLINE! The Pendleton Law Team Scholarship | For more information, click here.

December 15: DEADLINE! Law Student Scholarship | For more information, click here.

December 15: DEADLINE! Community Leadership Scholarship | For more information, click here.

December 16: AccessLex Webinar – Your Law School Investment | 11:00 am ONLINE. For more information, click here.

December 21: DEADLINE! The California Workers Compensation Lawyers Scholarship | For more information, click here.

December 22: DEADLINE! Lucas Law Legal Leaders Scholarship | For more information, click here.

December 22: Law School 101 – Understanding the Basics presented by MWBLSA | 4:00 pm ONLINE. Click here to join the virtual event via Zoom.

December 23 – January 2: University Holiday – Have a great winter break!

December 27: DEADLINE! Last day to register for the February LSAT | Register here.

Alumni Attorney Talks is a virtual series that aims to provide prospective law students with helpful insights about attending law school and pursuing a legal career. This series features interviews with University of Illinois alumni working in a variety of diverse settings within the legal profession.

JANICE FARRELL PEA

Professor at the University of Illinois College of Law

QUICK FACTS ABOUT PROFESSOR PEA

• Law School: University of Illinois College of Law
• Undergraduate Major: Health Information Management
• Professor Pea’s Three Words to Describe an Attorney:

Serendipitous | Varied | Satisfying  

Professor Pea pursued a successful career in the health industry, including earning an MBA, prior to attending law school. Following graduation, she became a law clerk with the Illinois Supreme Court while also beginning her teaching career at the University of Illinois College of Law. Learn more about Professor Pea online, click the link below to view our interview with Professor Pea!

The upcoming Fall Break is a welcome change as we head into the final weeks of the semester and year. For students, it’s a time to step away from the day-to-day demands of academic life and for alumni, there is often a bit more time to disconnect from work and the everyday demands. To help make sure you’re maximizing your time before the end of the semester! Read our tips below on way to fully utilize this unique time!

1.  Reconnect with your family and include them in your pre-law journey at the Pre-Law for Parents and Families event!

Whether it is your first fall break or last, take this time to reconnect with family and friends. Have a conversation and let them know how you have been doing and include them in your pre-law journey by inviting them to Pre-Law for Parents and Families on November 21 at 6:30 pm! For more information and to register, click here.

2. Relax and Rejuvenate

The end of the semester is always a busy, and often stressful, time.  Make time for yourself over break to rest and rejuvenate prior to the end of the semester.  UIUC also provides a wide variety of services and resources to help make the end of the semester as manageable as possible!

Here are some upcoming workshops that may interest you:

• December 6 | 6:00 pm: Test Anxiety Workshop with the Counseling Center.

• December 6 | 7:00 pm: Mangoes and Mental Health: Join Campus Recreation while we make delicious mango smoothies, dialogue, and skill-build healthy ways to manage our stress

• December 6 | 7:00 pm: “Motivation…Where Art Thou? Finding Motivation in the Midst of Finals” with the Counseling Center.

Being productive is great, but overworking yourself may not be. Your efforts to be successful are more effective when you’re not exhausted. Many people find mindfulness apps like InsightTimer, Calm, or Headspace useful in bringing the focus back to the present moment.

3.  Make a Plan to Finalize Applications

Applying this year? Set a goal date for application submission and stick to it! 

We highly recommend trying to apply during the first half of the admissions cycle, if possible.  Use Thanksgiving break as an opportunity to finalize your applications and submit them to schools.  If you will be applying later than early December, use Thanksgiving break to complete as many of the application components as you can and identify the earliest date you feel you can apply. 

Planning to apply in the spring of 2023? Plan and strategize to maximize success!

• TIP: Make an appointment with a pre-law Advisor to discuss your spring 2023 application strategies.
• TIP: Attend the “Strategies for Spring Application Success” workshop on December 1, 2022. To learn more and register, click here.

Regardless of when you apply, here is a brief checklist of essential items you will need to complete. If any of this feels overwhelming, don’t worry! Meet with a pre-law advisor and we’ll walk through it together):

CAS, LOR, Transcripts: Make sure you are familiar with the LSAC Credential Assembly Services (CAS) and stay current on the status of your materials and application components.  Request transcripts NOW, these will take several weeks to process.  Be sure you have submitted ALL required transcripts.  Follow up with recommenders, be sure they are aware of your goal timeline, and be sure to check CAS to confirm when your letters of recommendation are uploaded.

LSAT and LSAT Writing: You will need your final score to apply.  If you don’t have your score, confirm when it will be available and plan your goal submission date accordingly.  Have you completed the LSAT Writing? You must complete the Writing portion to receive your score (you must only do this once – if you previously completed this step you are done!).  Be sure to do that prior to the score release date of November 30, 2022. The LSAT Writing must be completed before your score is released.

Application Documents: Don’t quite have a final draft of your personal statement, resume, or addendums but want to save your spot on our advising calendar? No worries! You can book your appointment with an existing draft and then email your advisor a more complete draft of your document prior to your appointment – documents must be received at least one business day prior to your scheduled meeting time to ensure it is reviewed!

• Personal Statement – Fall break is a great time to draft and hopefully finalize your statement! Make sure to follow your specific schools’ prompts. Don’t forget to edit, edit, edit! Don’t know how to get started? Check out our Personal Statement resource on Canvas.
• Resume – Make sure it is current and ready to apply! Make sure it is well-formatted, free of typos and mistakes, and easy to read. Don’t know how to get started? Check out our Resume resource on Canvas.
• Addendums – Are there addendums required by your schools?  Are there optional addendums?  Be sure you have confirmed what addendums you will be submitting and begin writing.

School-specific requirements and questions:
Make sure you have reviewed the specific application requirements for the schools you will be applying to, and create a checklist for each school. Questions? If you have questions about an individual school’s application requirements or process ask NOW! Don’t wait until your goal submission date to confirm details.  Reach out directly or send emails over Thanksgiving break!

Remember…

We are here to help! PLAS is here to review documents, discuss strategies, and answer questions. We highly encourage you to book your appointment soon, this time of year gets really busy!

3. Plan the End of Your Semester

Make a strategic plan for the end of the semester to help make things manageable. Think backward from deadlines and due dates to ensure you have enough time to prepare for each end-of-semester item.  Take into account:

• Final academic obligations (papers, projects, final exams, and study time). Mark deadlines and dates on your calendar.
• Upcoming deadlines for internships or other special programs.
• Admissions events and programs you may wish to attend (The last LSAC Forum is on February 3rd, 2023!).
• Time for life logistics – plan around busy times and deadlines for things like groceries/bills, exercise, family, and friends.

4. Taking the LSAT in 2023?

Consider using some of your fall break to explore LSAT prep resources and start developing a study plan. Here are some links to get you started:

• Save the Date! February 2023: LSAT Jumpstart hosted by PLAS, is a four-session mini-camp to help you prepare for the LSAT. To learn more and register, click here.
• LSAC’s Khan Academy: explore what LSAT prep looks like through this free program.
• Official LSAT Content Licensees: explore this list of LSAT test prep companies and tutors that are official content licensees.
• LSAT Preparation Resources on Canvas: Head over to the PLAS Canvas page and scroll to the LSAT Preparation module. Here you will find many resources and tips to help you prepare for the LSAT.

5. Finally, start thinking ahead…

Make efforts to finalize important spring plans including course selections, extracurricular involvements, and goals for internships and other opportunities. 

And, don’t forget to check out our annual Internship Newsletter which is also available on our Canvas page!

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UPCOMING EVENTS AND PROGRAMS

• November 21 | 6:30 pm: Pre-Law for Parents and Family
• December 1 | 12:00 pm: Strategies for Spring Application Success
• February 2023 | LSAT Jumpstart
• February 3, 2023 | LSAC Law School Digital Forum

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Unfortunately, the time between graduation and law school is often referred to as “gap years”. This term often invites an impression that this time lacks substance, is unintentional or is void of value. Perhaps, as a result, many students have an inaccurate impression that taking time prior to law school is inherently negative or a disadvantage to their ultimate goal of attending law school. The reality is that taking time to pursue opportunities prior to law school can contribute significantly to an applicant’s success, and can ultimately offer an individual tremendous benefits personally, academically, and professionally.

Whether you ultimately decide to pursue an opportunity prior to law or go “straight through”, every future applicant should consider how a timeline that includes a “gap year(s)” might enhance their application and contribute to their ultimate success as a law student!

Below is a collection of resources to assist in your decision-making!

View this brief virtual workshop discussing Gap Years!

Learn more about the many benefits of taking a gap year and possible opportunities to pursue!

Watch! Gap Year Perspectives Panel

PLAS welcomed a panel of UIUC pre-law alumni to share perspectives and insights about their experiences taking time to pursue opportunities prior to law school. The Gap Year Perspectives Panel was hosted on Tuesday, November 15, 2022, at 5:30 pm via Zoom. To register for this event, please click here. Learn more about our accomplished groups of panelists below!

Meet the Panelists

November 1: Drafting Your Application | 4:00 pm Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 1: APPtitude Pre-Law Program Applications Now Open! For students with anticipated graduation dates of December 2024, May 2025, or August 2025. To learn more and apply, click here.

November 1: NYU Law Online Information Session | 3:00 pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

November 1: AccessLex Webinar: Applying to Law School | 5:00 pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

November 1: Mental Playground: Coping with Childhood Trauma | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 1: DEADLINE! Lavent Law Immigrant Scholarship | For more information, click here.

November 1: DEADLINE! Hallie Gay Walden Bagley Scholarship | For more information, click here.

November 1: DEADLINE! Neal Davis Law Scholarship | For more information, click here.

November 1: DEADLINE! Good Lawyers/Good People Scholarship | For more information, click here.

November 2: LSAT score release date via LSAC account.

November 2: APPtitude Pre-law Program Information Session | 4:00 pm via Zoom. Pre-registration is not required, click here for additional information.  For students with anticipated graduation dates of December 2024, May 2025, or August 2025. 

November 2: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 6:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 3: Pre-Law 101 Session One | 4:00 pm – In Person – Everitt Lab #2310. For more information and to register, click here.

November 3: Law Student Panel: If I Knew Then What I Know Now, presented by Kaplan | 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm. For more information, click here.

November 4: DEADLINE! Apply to become a Mock Interview Coach with The Career Center | Mock Interview Coaches have flexible hours (up to 10 hours/week) and are compensated $15/hour | To learn more and apply, click here.

November 4: UChicago Law Admissions On-Campus Visit | 9:15 am – 1:00 pm – To learn more, click here.

November 4: Northwestern Law First-Generation Prelaw Conference: Navigating Law School Admissions for First-Generation and Underrepresented Students | 9:30 am – 4:00 pm. For more information, click here.

November 4: Counseling Center’s Perfectionism Series | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 5: Fall Open House: Experiential Learning at Chicago-Kent College of Law | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, Virtual and In-Person. To learn more and register, click here.

November 7: DEADLINE! Truman Scholarship Campus Deadline | 12:00 pm. For more information, click here.

November 7: Creating a Powerful Resume | 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm in Career Center Conference Room 143. For more information, click here.

November 8: U.S. LL.M. Legal Education Conference: A Day in the Life – Current Students | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm. For more information, click here.

November 8: Feeling the Burn? Let’s Talk about Burnout | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 9: Creating a Powerful Cover Letter | 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm in Career Center Conference Room 143. For more information, click here.

November 9: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 6:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 9: St. Louis University School of Law | Virtual Sample Class with Professor Christine Rollins and Admissions Q & A | 6:00 pm ONLINE. For more information, click here.

November 9: U.S. LL.M. Legal Education Conference: A Day in the Life – Current Students | 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. For more information, click here.

November 10: APPtitude Pre-Law Program Information Session | 12:00 pm via Zoom. Pre-registration is not required, click here for additional information.  For students with anticipated graduation dates of December 2024, May 2025, or August 2025. 

November 10: Pre-Law 101 Session Two | 4:00 pm – In Person – Everitt Lab #2310. For more information and to register, click here.

November 10: Northwestern Law’s “Ask me Anything” with Dean Lee |12:00 pm – 1:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 10: Udall Scholarship Info Session | 3:30 pm in 514 IUB. For more information, click here.

November 10: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 11: DEADLINE! Last day to apply for the Internship with the Office of Congressman Sean Casten in Washington D.C. and Glen Ellyn, IL | For more information and to apply, click here. 

November 11: ONLINE Udall Scholarship Info Session | 9:00 am on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 11: UChicago Law Admissions On-Campus Visit | 9:15 am – 1:00 pm. For more information and to register, click here.

November 11: University of Houston Law Center Pre-Law Pipeline Program | 12:00 pm on Zoom. To attend, click here.

November 11: Counseling Center’s Perfectionism Series | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 11: Udall Scholarship Workshop | 3:00 pm in 514 IUB. For more information, click here.

November 12: Northwestern Law First-Generation Prelaw Conference: Navigating Law School Admissions for First-Generation and Underrepresented Students | 9:30 am – 4:00 pm at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Engagement. Click here to register.

November 11-12: November LSAT – Best wishes to everyone taking the LSAT this weekend!

November 13: DEADLINE! Last day to sign-up for LSAT study groups! | Click here for additional details and to sign-up.

November 14: St. Louis University School of Law #MotivationalMondays Virtual Series: Intellectual Property | 12:00 pm – 12:45 pm. For more information, click here.

November 14: UChicago Law Admissions Monthly Webinar | 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm ONLINE. For more information and to register, click here.

November 15: Gap Year Presentation and Panel | 5:30 pm via Zoom. For more information and to register, click here.

November 15: Test Anxiety Program | 1:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 15: Loyola Chicago JD Information Session | 3:30 pm on Zoom. For more details and to attend, click here.

November 15: You’ve Got a Friend in Me: Supporting a Friend Who’s Struggling | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 15: AccessLex Webinar: Law Student Panel: The Inside Scoop | 7:00 pm ONLINE. For more information and to register, click here.

November 16: Behind the Scenes: The B1G Law School Experience | 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm ONLINE. Join the Big Ten Law Schools for a virtual admissions panel. For more information and to attend, click here.

November 16: AccessLex Webinar: Choosing a Law School | 4:00 pm ONLINE. For more information and to attend, click here.

November 16: Mythbusting the LSAT with Kaplan | 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm. For more information, click here.

November 16: Test Masters – Logic Games Workshop (FREE) | 7:30 pm ONLINE – Register online to attend!

November 17: DEADLINE! Last day to register for the LSAC Digital Law School Forum | 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm. For more information, click here.

November 17: Special Event! University of Illinois College of Law: Meet the Admissions Team | 4pm at Peer and Sarah Pedersen Pavilion. For more information, click here.

November 17: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 18: DEADLINE! Last day to apply to the APPtitude Pre-Law Program | For students with anticipated graduation dates of December 2024, May 2025, or August 2025. For more information and to apply, click here.

November 18: In-Person St. Louis University School of Law Pre-Law Day | 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. For more information, click here.

November 19: CLEO CONNECTION: Juniors Jumpstart the LSAT | Time provided upon registration. For more information, click here.

November 19: CLEO CONNECTION: Road to Law School Workshop | 8:00 am – 3:00 pm. For more information and to register, click here.

November 19: CLEO CONNECTION: Sophomore Super Saturdays | 8:00 am – 3:00 pm. For more information and to register, click here.

November 19: DePaul College of Law Open House | 9:00 am – 1:00 pm in-person. For more information and to register, click here.

November 19: LSAC Digital Law School Forum | 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm ONLINE. For more information and to attend, click here. Deadline to register is November 17!

November 19: Counseling Center’s Perfectionism Series | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 21: Pre-Law for Parents and Families | 6:30 pm ONLINE. For more information and to register, click here.

November 21: Georgetown Law Virtual JD Information Session | 10:30 am ONLINE. For more information and to register, click here.

November 22: AccessLex Webinar: Paying for Law School | 3:00 pm ONLINE. For more information and to register, click here.

November 28: DEADLINE! Goldwater Campus Deadline | 12:00 pm. For more information, click here.

November 28: St. Louis University School of Law #MotivationalMondays Virtual Series: Health Law | 12:00 pm – 12:45 pm. For more information, click here.

November 28: Recognition, Insight, and Openness (RIO) series | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 29: Got the Blues? Slaying Seasonal Depression | 7:00 pm on Zoom. For more information, click here.

November 30: DEADLINE! Value of Mentorship Scholarship | For more information, and to apply, click here.

November 30: LSAT score release date via LSAC account.

November 30: AccessLex Webinar: Your Law School Investment | 2:00 pm ONLINE | For more information and to register, click here.