Month: September 2016

Application tips from the University of Chicago Law School: A guest post

This week we are kicking off a new series of guest posts from law school colleagues. These posts will give you a peek into what’s new at their schools, share tips on the application process, and let you get to know the people reading your application.

Today we are happy to present this post from fellow Illini Dean Ann Perry from the University of Chicago Law School. You can also visit UChicago Law’s table at the Law School Fair here on campus next Tuesday, October 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Illini Union A, B, C Rooms.

Dear Fellow Illini—-

My name is Ann K. Perry, and I am the Associate Dean for Admissions and Financial Aid at the University of Chicago Law School. Though I have been in this position for over 14 years, as a double alum of the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign my blood is still orange and blue. I enjoy getting back to campus and meeting with prospective law students. I already met with some students a couple of weeks ago when I was in town for an athletic board meeting. I wanted to reach more students so your great pre–law advisors invited me to write a blog post. You can find out a lot about the University of Chicago Law School on our website, so I won’t bore you with all of those details but do check out our website here. UChicago Law is a wonderful place to study law with a very engaged and active learning community where interaction with your professors happens daily both inside and outside the classroom! If this sounds like a place you would like to study……APPLY!!

I want to give you some just-released information about the Class of 2019. They have recently arrived on campus and classes start September 26 (we are on the quarter system). There are 186 students and University of Illinois is represented! Their median LSAT is a 170 and median GPA is 3.9, BUT it is always more helpful to look at the ranges—our LSAT range is 154-180 and our GPA range is 3.21-4.20. As you can see, these ranges are wide, which shows that we have a holistic review of all of our applications. The personal statement, resume, LORs, and transcripts are as important as the numbers. So as you are putting your application together, don’t take any short cuts and make each part as strong as you can.

And as you prepare to apply, I wanted to give you some tips regarding Letters of Recommendations (LORs), which might seem difficult to get on a campus as large as UIUC. As an alum, I am familiar with the size of some of your classes—I had over 1000 classmates in my Econ101 class many moons ago! You should think about the professor or teaching assistant who knows you the best, perhaps someone who taught you in two or more classes. Those are the people who can write strong letters about how they have seen you develop academically. Make sure to give them plenty of time to write the letter. When you ask them, it is helpful to bring them a copy of your resume so they learn all the other things you do on campus or the kinds of part time work you are doing while in school. Finally, don’t hesitate to clearly ask if they are able to write you a strong letter…..you want to give them an out if they just are too busy at the time to write the letter.

I hope you have found this information and tips helpful. We look forward to reviewing your application, and don’t hesitate to reach out to me with any questions.

Go Illini!!
Ann Killian Perry
Associate Dean for Admissions & Financial Aid
The University of Chicago Law School
akperry@uchicago.edu
www.law.uchicago.edu

5 Things to do after the December LSAT

December is here and the LSAT is over, which means it is time to focus on the remaining elements of your application so that you can get those applications out as soon as your LSAT score is available in the first week of January. What should you be doing now?

Check on your letters of recommendation…NOW!! Your recommendations should already be in your LSAC account. Check your account and follow up with your recommenders ASAP if they aren’t, so that you know when they will be in. Remember that your application is not complete and will not be considered without them.  This should be your top priority because the closer we get to break, the busier professors get (or they begin to travel and be unreachable).

Draft your personal statement. It’s time to take that energy and time you were focusing on the LSAT and devote it to your personal statement. Although our personal statement workshops are over, we have some tips and suggestions for the personal statement on our website and a helpful video and handout on our Compass page.  You can also get help through the Writer’s Workshop, which is a great place to start. Spend some time thinking about your values, your career goals, and what makes you stand out from the crowd. Then write a draft, set it aside for a few days, and revisit it. Don’t worry if you don’t love the first draft–no one does. Start now so that you can spend at least a few weeks thinking, writing, and editing.

Schedule an appointment now. When you are ready for some feedback, you can make an appointment for a Pre-Law Advisor to review your personal statement and discuss it with you in addition to answering any questions about the application process.

  • December appointments: Both Pre-Law Advisors will be available for appointments through December 22, and we expect to be very busy with appointments during this time given that applications are up this year. It is a good idea to schedule your appointment now by calling 333-9669. Please email us your statement and resume two business days prior to your appointment so that we have time to review them.
  • Winter break appointments: The office will be closed Dec. 25 through January 1. Appointments will be available again starting January 2. If you are not in the Champaign-Urbana area, you can make a phone appointment–just let the receptionist know when you schedule that it will be a phone appointment.

Order your transcripts. You’ll need to order a transcript from each undergraduate institution you attended. At Illinois, you can check the “hold for fall grades” box to have your Fall 2017 grades included. Visit the LSAC here, http://www.lsac.org/jd/applying-to-law-school/cas/requesting-transcripts, for more information on the transcript ordering process. You can order your Illinois transcript through the Registrar’s website here.

Schedule law school visits.  Many law schools offer open houses. Check your top 3-5 law schools’ websites and social media. Individual law school visits are a good alternative. Call the law school and ask for a tour and to sit it on a class. Visiting a law school is very important to your overall law school choice, and is a MUST for schools that you are seriously considering. Plus, law schools will note your visit and you may even get to meet the person reading your application, so be sure to make a good impression.

Take a look at our earlier post called “The Application Process: LSAC Tips” for even more application details.

Mark Your Calendars: Week of September 26

We’re gearing up for the biggest pre-law events of the year! Mark your calendars for next week.

Law Admissions Panel & Mock Admissions–Monday, October 3, 6:30-7:45 pm. Join us for this fun mock admissions session with SIX law school admissions deans! You’ll be part of the admissions decisions as we examine applications, discuss candidates, and decide whom to admit. This session will feature law school deans from University of Illinois, University of California–Berkeley, Richmond University, Boston College, Widener University, and Notre Dame. For more details visit our website here. This is a must-see for any students interested in applying to law school.

Law School Fair — Tuesday, October 4, 10am-2pm, Illini Union A, B, C. The Law School Fair is a gathering of over 110 law school representatives here on campus to talk to you about their schools.  Everyone is welcome — students, alumni, community representatives.  Dress is business casual.  Want to find out if your favorite schools are attending?  Click on this link to learn more about the event.

Upcoming Campus Events and Opportunities

Majors and Minors Fair–Wednesday, September 28 from 2-4 pm in Illini Union ABC Rooms. Are you considering changing majors or adding a minor? Come and learn more about every major and minor on campus, as well as study abroad, Career Center, and us! We’ll be there, so stop by our table and say hello!

The Career Center fall workshop calendar is posted on their website at:  https://www.careercenter.illinois.edu/events. If you have not done so already, update your resume, plan your job search or summer internship, and get to know their office and resources. All sessions will be held at the Career Center, 715 S. Wright Street, unless otherwise indicated. Upcoming workshops include:

  • Resume, Cover Letter, & LinkedIn Reviews
    • September 26, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • September 26, 7-9 pm at the Undergraduate Library
    • September 27, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center 
    • September 28, 2-4:30 pm at the Career Center
    • September 29, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • September 30, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
  • Join the Conversation: LinkedIn, September 27, 4-5 pm
  • Finding and Applying to Government Jobs, September 28, 4-5 pm
  • Finding an Internship, September 29, 4-5 pm
  • Special Guest Presentation for International Student Job Search I, September 30, 1-2:30 pm, BIF Auditorium
  • Special Guest Presentation for International Student Job Search 2, September 30, 3-4:30 pm, DCL Room 1320
  • Creating Your Powerful Cover Letter, September 26, 4-5pm; September 21, 5-6pm, Room 143

And coming in October….

Illini Career & Internship Fair — Wednesday, October 26, Noon-4pm at ARC. This is a fair focused on industries that recruit students from the liberal arts and humanities, media, education, and applied health sciences.  Mark your calendars now so that you don’t miss out on this great opportunity! To learn more, go to the Career Center’s website.

Law School Events
Law Schools are starting to hold Open House and other recruiting events. Check the websites of your top choice law schools for events such as these:

Chicago-Kent College of Law IIT will host an October Open House: Getting Into Law School Seminar on Saturday, October 15 from 9:30 am – 1:00 pm. Visit their website for more details or to register.

University of Chicago Law School will host Prospective Student Open Houses starting on October 31 from 1:00-4:45 pm. For more details or to register, visit their website here.

Emory University School of Law: Great news, law school applicants! We just received several application fee waivers for Emory University School of Law! Email us at ccaas-prelaw@illinois.edu to claim; first come, first served. Must apply this year.

Upcoming Off Campus Internships, Scholarships and Events

Department of State Internships—Apps due Oct. 14

Are you interested in a career as a diplomat? The U.S. Department of State offers students unpaid internships to work in U.S. embassies and consulates around the world and throughout the United States. Must be at least a college junior with minimum 2.5 GPA, U.S. citizen, able to pass a background investigation. All majors accepted. Visit their website here for additional details; you can also subscribe to receive their emails about internship opportunities. Applications are due October 14

Organizing Change Leadership Retreat — Saturday, October 8 – Sunday, October 9, 2016 Join Illinois students from around campus for a free two-day retreat that will build your leadership skills.  Meet students who are active in leading change, and learn how to get involved in the issues that matter to you. Held at the Lake Williamson all-inclusive retreat near Springfield, Organizing Change features workshops, team building activities, and opportunities to network with other student leaders and staff. Transportation, lodging, and food are provided.  Space is limited. Register for the conference here.

Priority Deadline is Monday, September 26, 2016. Questions? Contact Ross Wantland at DiversityEd@illinois.edu or (217) 244-1814.

Illinois Club Scholarships — Applications Due Saturday, October 15!

Diverse and welcoming, The Illinois Club draws its membership from all areas of the University as well as the surrounding community. Since 1915, The Illinois Club has provided financial support to worthy undergraduate students. We now award scholarships in excess of $20,000 each year.

  • Seven-Nine (7-9) combined Make-A-Difference Awards & Isabelle Purnell Education Awards of $2,500
  • One (1) Judith Life Ikenberry Fine Arts Award of $3,400
  • One (1) Global Focus Award of $2,500

You must be an undergraduate, have earned at least 60 credit hours by the beginning of the Spring 2017 semester, and graduate no earlier than December 2017 to apply. A minimum GPA of 2.75 at both the time of application and winning of award is required. Applicants are evaluated for all awards for which they are eligible. For more information, go here: http://theillinoisclub.org/scholarship.php.  To apply for these scholarships, please complete the application here: http://go.illinois.edu/TICScholarship. Interviews with finalists will be scheduled January 21 and 28, 2017.

 

 

LSAT: Day of Test Procedures

OK September LSAT takers — the test is this Saturday!! Of course you have been studying diligently and are ready for what is coming on the LSAT. But don’t forget — the LSAC has a list of procedures that you MUST comply with in order to be allowed to begin and complete the exam.  Here they are in brief.

To be eligible to take the LSAT, you will be required to have with you at the test center the printout of your admission ticket that includes the photo that you uploaded through your LSAC online account. Admission tickets that do not display the required uploaded photo will not be accepted on test day. You must also bring a valid, government issued photo ID and 3-4 sharpened sharpened No. 2 or HB wooden pencils with good erasers. Mechanical pencils are prohibited.

The LSAC has a list of LSAT test day prohibited items that includes cellphones, electronic timing devices, digital watches, fitness tracking devices, headphones and many others.  NOTE: LSAC has adopted a no-tolerance policy with regard to the use or possession of electronic devices during the administration of the LSAT.   Consequently, if you are discovered in possession of (or using) any electronic device, including cell phones, you will be issued a Violation of Law School Admission Test Center Regulations form and will be dismissed from the test center. Such violations will be grounds for score cancellation, and you may be subject to an LSAC investigation. This policy will be enforced from the time test takers arrive at the test center until they leave at the conclusion of the test—including the break. We strongly urge you to review the LSAC’s rules for the day of the test, to avoid making a critical mistake.  The LSAC’s test day rules can be accessed by clicking on this link. http://www.lsac.org/jd/lsat/day-of-test.

Other important considerations:

  1. LSAT Registration Withdrawal: If you do not feel ready to take the September exam, you will be able to withdraw your registration on the LSAT Status page of your LSAC.org account. This option will be available until 11:59 pm (ET) the night before the test. If you withdraw your registration, you will not receive a refund. You will be required to pay the full registration fee if you register for another test date. The LSAC explains this process here. 
  2. LSAT Score Cancellation: Further, if you take the LSAT and you feel that the test has not gone well you have the right to cancel your score, either at the test center or within 6 calendar days of taking the test. The deadline to cancel your score online will be 11:59 pm (EST) on the sixth day after your LSAT date. Click on this link to review LSAC’s test score cancellation policies.
  3. LSAT Frequently Asked Questions: Other questions? Check out LSAC’s LSAT FAQs here. Need more info? You may speak live with an LSAC customer service rep by calling (215) 968-1001 Monday-Friday, 7:30am-5:00pm CST.  LSAC also has an online form here for questions.

Mark Your Calendars — Week of September 19

So many great opportunities to share this week — a pre-Law workshop, an LSAT scholarship, an internship listing, a law school fee application waiver, a law school admissions webinar and more! Take a look!

Perfecting Your Personal Statement and Resume for Law School — TODAY Monday, September 19, 4-5pm, 514 IUB

The personal statement is one of the most difficult yet powerful elements of the law school application. Join us for this workshop, which will cover what the personal statement is, how to prepare for writing it, and some tips and suggestions for making it reflect an applicant’s strengths. We will also discuss how the personal statement and resume can complement each other to create a stronger law school application. There are a few spots still available for today’s session on a first come, first served basis so feel free to come by even if you haven’t pre-registered. Other sessions will be offered in October and November. Each session is the same, so select the one that best suits your schedule. Click on this link to view the PLAS calendar.

And coming soon….

Law School Fair — Tuesday, October 4, 10am-2pm, Illini Union A, B, C

The Law School Fair is a gathering of over 100 law school representatives here on campus to talk to you about their schools.  Everyone is welcome — students, alumni, community representatives.  Dress is business casual.  Want to find out if your favorite schools are attending?  Click on this link to learn more about the event.

Upcoming Campus Events and Opportunities

iUnite Week — September 19th-23rd

Keynote Address — Tearing Hatred from the Sky: A Discussion with Bree Newsome, Community Organizer and Activist Who Removed the Confederate Battle Flag from the South Carolina State House

Tuesday, September 20, 2016 at 7pm Illini Union, Rooms ABC

Driven by an unwavering belief in the power of the individual to make change, Bree Newsome established herself as a touchstone of empowerment for disenfranchised people around the world when she tore down the Confederate flag in front of the South Carolina statehouse in 2015, in the name of social justice and equality. A graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, Newsome seamlessly blends her artistic talents with her passionate activism, educating and inspiring audiences to organize and stand together to transform society into a world where the lives and contributions of all individuals are recognized equally.

Sponsored by the Office of Inclusion & Intercultural Relations, Inclusive Illinois, and the Illini Union Board. View the full iUnite Week schedule at: https://oiir.illinois.edu/events/iunite2016.

The Career Center fall workshop calendar is posted on their website at:  https://www.careercenter.illinois.edu/events. If you have not done so already, update your resume, plan your job search or summer internship, and get to know their office and resources. All sessions will be held at the Career Center, 715 S. Wright Street, unless otherwise indicated. Upcoming workshops include:

  • Resume, Cover Letter, & LinkedIn Reviews
    • September 19, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • September 19, 7-9 pm at the Undergraduate Library
    • September 20, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center 
    • September 20, 5:30-7:30 pm at the IKE (SDRP Building)
    • September 21, 2-4:30 pm at the Career Center
    • September 21, 7-9 pm at the Undergraduate Library
    • September 22, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • September 23, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • September 25, 4-9pm at the Undergraduate Library
  • Career Fairs: Maximizing Your Experience, September 19, 4-5pm, Room 143
  • Acing Your Interview, September 19, 5-6pm, Room 143
  • Making Your Major Decision, September 20, 4-5pm, Room 514 Illini Union Bookstore Building
  • Creating Your Powerful Resume, September 20,4-5pm; September 21, 4-5pm, Room 143
  • Creating Your Powerful Cover Letter, September 20, 5-6pm; September 21, 5-6pm, Room 143
  • Finding an Internship, September 22, 4-5:00 pm

And coming in October….

Illini Career & Internship Fair — Wednesday, October 26, Noon-4pm at ARC

This is a fair focused on industries that recruit students from the liberal arts and humanities, media, education, and applied health sciences.  Mark your calendars now so that you don’t miss out on this great opportunity! To learn more, go to the Career Center’s website.

Illinois Leadership Center has announced its fall i-programs. Next up: Intersect, on September 24 at 10:00 a.m.  The Intersect Leadership program is designed to help students focus on interpersonal communication and team building. Students who participate will work with fellow students to accomplish team challenge goals. Click here to learn more and to register.

Upcoming Off Campus Internships, Scholarships and Events

LSAT Scholarship — Diversity Scholarship Foundation — Applications due THIS Wednesday, September 21!

This Scholarship will be awarded to an undergraduate student who is actively applying to an accredited law school in Illinois, Wisconsin, or Indiana or is a recent graduate with a four-year degree and is taking the LSAT. Eligible students maintain a 3.5 GPA. The award will be sent directly to LSAT or to a law school and/or to a LSAT class provider and/or tutoring for LSAT.  For more information and to apply, click on this link: DSF 2016 Scholarship Application.

Department of State Internships—Apps due Oct. 14

Are you interested in a career as a diplomat? The U.S. Department of State offers students unpaid internships to work in U.S. embassies and consulates around the world and throughout the United States. Must be at least a college junior with minimum 2.5 GPA, U.S. citizen, able to pass a background investigation. All majors accepted. Visit their website here for additional details; you can also subscribe to receive their emails about internship opportunities. Applications are due October 14

Organizing Change Leadership Retreat — Saturday, October 8 – Sunday, October 9, 2016 Join Illinois students from around campus for a free two-day retreat that will build your leadership skills.  Meet students who are active in leading change, and learn how to get involved in the issues that matter to you.

Held at the Lake Williamson all-inclusive retreat near Springfield, Organizing Change features workshops, team building activities, and opportunities to network with other student leaders and staff. Transportation, lodging, and food are provided.  Space is limited. Register for the conference here.

Priority Deadline is Monday, September 26, 2016. Questions? Contact Ross Wantland at DiversityEd@illinois.edu or (217) 244-1814.

Illinois Club Scholarships — Applications Due Saturday, October 15!

Diverse and welcoming, The Illinois Club draws its membership from all areas of the University as well as the surrounding community. Since 1915, The Illinois Club has provided financial support to worthy undergraduate students. We now award scholarships in excess of $20,000 each year.

  • Seven-Nine (7-9) combined Make-A-Difference Awards & Isabelle Purnell Education Awards of $2,500
  • One (1) Judith Life Ikenberry Fine Arts Award of $3,400
  • One (1) Global Focus Award of $2,500

You must be an undergraduate, have earned at least 60 credit hours by the beginning of the Spring 2017 semester, and graduate no earlier than December 2017 to apply. A minimum GPA of 2.75 at both the time of application and winning of award is required. Applicants are evaluated for all awards for which they are eligible. For more information, go here: http://theillinoisclub.org/scholarship.php.  To apply for these scholarships, please complete the application here: http://go.illinois.edu/TICScholarship. Interviews with finalists will be scheduled January 21 and 28, 2017.

Law Schools

Emory University School of Law: Great news, law school applicants! We just received several application fee waivers for Emory University School of Law! Email us at ccaas-prelaw@illinois.edu to claim; first come, first served. Must apply this year.

New York University School of Law — Office of JD Admissions Webinar — September 21, 2:30pm CST/3:30pm EST

Beginning this week, NYU School of Law Office of JD Admissions will offer webinars for prospective students.   These presentations will be a special broadcast of a live information session with an admissions representative.  Prospective students will have an opportunity to submit questions about NYU’s curriculum, student life, and the admissions process via the online chat tool.  Interested students may register at: https://nyu.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_0VaxBUgKAUxG5aR and select a date on which they would like to joint the webinar.  Someone from the NYU School of Law Office of JD Admissions will then be in touch with the student a few days before their chosen session with access instructions.  The school offers a total of five different dates for this event.  If you have an interest in applying to NYU School of Law you should register for one of these webinars!

 


Early Decision: What should you know?

Early decision application deadlines are fast approaching.  Some are as soon as November 15, (two months from now!) and others are December 1.  Many of you ask us whether you should opt for early decision.  The answer is (of course) — it is entirely up to you!

What does choosing to apply early decision actually mean?  It means that you have decided that X law school is your top choice and that you would choose to attend that law school regardless of whether you were admitted elsewhere and regardless of the amount of financial aid offered by your early decision school. More importantly, when selecting to apply via the binding early decision track you are agreeing that, if admitted to X law school, you will attend that law school and, therefore, will immediately withdraw all of your other applications at all other law schools. Some nearby schools with binding “Early Decision/Early Commitment” programs include: University of Michigan Law School,  Northwestern University School of Law, and University of Chicago Law School.

What is Early Decision versus Early Action? Binding “Early Decision” or “Early Commitment” programs should not be confused with non-binding “Early Action” or “Early Notification” programs like those offered by Chicago-Kent Law School and Loyola University of Chicago School of Law. An early action or early notification typically means that if you apply by a certain deadline (for example, November 30), then you will receive an expedited response (for example, by January 1). Early action or early notification programs are non-binding, which means that if accepted through them, you can still pursue other law school options.

Are there advantages to applying Early Decision? In most cases, the one key advantage to applying early decision is that you demonstrate to the law school a very strong interest in their program.  Further, since you are applying early, you will hear from the admissions office much earlier in the admissions cycle.  Finally, with regard to scholarships and financial aid, the impact of early decision varies from school to school.  Many schools treat early decision candidates/admitted applicants the same as they treat those applicants applying during and admitted through the regular admissions cycle.  However, other law schools offer financial incentives for qualified applicants to apply early decision. For example, in the case of Northwestern, if admitted through its Early Decision program, you are guaranteed a total scholarship of $150,000 ($50,000 per year). Note: if you are applying early decision to Northwestern you must complete an admissions interview by November 15. Click here to access information about scheduling an interview at Northwestern.

How sure do you need to be to apply early decision? Very sure. By applying early decision, you are telling a law school that it is your number one choice, and you are committing to going there if they admit you regardless of how much financial aid you are offered. You will also agree to withdraw all other applications if you are admitted through the ED program…which means you will not be able to see the results of your other applications if offered admission through an ED program!

So…should you or shouldn’t you? The decision to commit to a binding early decision program is a very individual one.  Consider all of the pros and cons very carefully. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

  1. Is this school my absolute top choice?
  2. Would I attend this school regardless of the financial aid offered to me?
  3. Am I willing to withdraw all of my other law school applications–even before I get a response from them?

If you decide early decision is the right approach for you, double check all of the deadlines and make sure you finish all required elements of the application by then.  Good luck!

Mark Your Calendars–Week of September 12

So many great opportunities to share this week! Pre-Law workshops, an LSAT scholarship, a new internship listing, and don’t forget to apply for the paid campus legal counsel internships. Take a look.

Pre-Law 101 — Monday, September 12, 4-5pm, 514 IUB

This workshop is designed for incoming students who are new to pre-law or are interested in learning more about it. 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. We will outline a four year plan to maximize your undergraduate experiences in order to make a great law school candidate. We’ll also take any questions about law school and legal careers. Please reserve a seat by clicking on this link to ensure enough seating and materials for everyone. Each Pre-Law 101 session is the same. Incoming students should attend a Pre-Law 101 session prior to setting up an individual pre-law advising appointment.

Perfecting Your Personal Statement and Resume for Law School — Monday, September 19, 4-5pm, 514 IUB

The personal statement is one of the most difficult yet powerful elements of the law school application. Join us for this workshop, which will cover what the personal statement is, how to prepare for writing it, and some tips and suggestions for making it reflect an applicant’s strengths. We will also discuss how the personal statement and resume can complement each other to create a stronger law school application. Please register by clicking on this link so that we can ensure enough seating and materials for everyone. Each session is the same, so select the one that best suits your schedule.

Upcoming Campus Events and Opportunities

UIUC Pre-Law Honors Society — Applications due TODAY, September 12th!

The Pre-Law Honors Society of the University of Illinois seeks to provide activities and opportunities that will facilitate the needs and wants of pre-law students who have achieved high honors at the undergraduate level. Through such activities PHS strives to further educate members on the requirements and preparation needed to enter a law school as well as any legal profession or arena.

The application deadline for membership in the UIUC Pre-Law Honors Society is Monday September 12th at 5pm. To apply students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.3/4.0 and must have completed 30 hours of campus credit prior to initiation (Sophomore status). The link to apply can be found on the PHS official website or on the PHS Facebook page. 

Community Service & Volunteer Fair–Wednesday, September 14 from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm in Illini Union Rooms A, B,C. Bring your i-card! Explore all the different volunteer opportunities on campus and in the Champaign-Urbana community.

Free speech on campus panel discussion–Thursday, September 15 from 12:00pm-1:30 in Illini Union Room A. Join a College of Law panel to learn what the First Amendment actually protects on campus–and what it doesn’t. You’ll also hear diverse perspectives on real-world cases involving conflicts over freedom of speech. Panelists include: Moderator Vikram Amar, Dean of Illinois Law, Akhil Amar, Yale Law School, Jim Anderson, College of Education, and Jason Mazzone, Illinois Law.  Light refreshments will be served.

PAID Internship — UIUC Office of University Counsel — Applications due September 15! The Office of University Counsel seeks 1-2 undergraduate student interns for 2016-2017. This PAID position will provide administrative support to the office, with specific duties outlined in the link provided below. Hours per week will depend upon intern availability. 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.

About the office: The Office of University Counsel (OUC) provides legal advice and representation to the university, its administrators/employees, University Related Organizations and others who seek legal advice arising from their official university responsibilities. OUC attorneys provide advice on an extremely wide variety of subjects. The office staff consists of attorneys and staff with unique skills and specialized training, as well as generalists who are well versed in multiple areas of law and policy.

Required: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing; minimum 3.0 GPA; consistent weekly availability. Preference will be given to candidates with availability over breaks.  Applications are due Thursday, September 15! For more information about the position and how to apply, go here: Intern – Urbana – Clerical 2016.

Illinois Abroad Winter Break program applications are due September 15! Do you want to study abroad but you don’t want to be gone over the summer because you’ll be taking the LSAT? Winter break study abroad options are a great alternative! These 2-6 week courses are faculty-led and participants receive automatic Illinois credit. From Argentina to Jordan, the Bahamas to Brazil, South Africa to Hong Kong, this is a great way for pre-law students to study abroad without sacrificing LSAT study time. Check them out here.

The Career Center fall workshop calendar is posted on their website at:  https://www.careercenter.illinois.edu/events. If you have not done so already, update your resume, plan your job search or summer internship, and get to know their office and resources. All sessions will be held at the Career Center, 715 S. Wright Street, unless otherwise indicated. Upcoming workshops include:

  • Resume, Cover Letter, & LinkedIn Reviews
    • September 12, 2-4:30 at the Career Center
    • September 12, 7-9 pm at the Undergraduate Library
    • September 13, 2-4:30 at the Career Center 
    • September 13, 5:30-7:30 pm at the IKE (SDRP Building)
    • September 14, 7-9 pm at the Undergraduate Library
  • Selling Your LAS Degree at Career Fairs, September 12, 4 pm in 319 Greg Hall
  • Creating Your Powerful Resume, September 12, 5pm
  • Finding an Internship, September 13, 5 pm
  • Join the Conversation: LinkedIn, September 14, 4pm
  • Build the Skills Employers Want, September 15, 4 pm
  • Pizza & Professionals Lunch Series: Careers in the Fashion Industry, September 16 12-1 pm

Illinois Leadership Center has announced its fall i-programs. Next up: Intersect, on September 24 at 10:00 a.m.  The Intersect Leadership program is designed to help students focus on interpersonal communication and team building. Students who participate will work with fellow students to accomplish team challenge goals. Click here to learn more and to register.

 Upcoming Off Campus Internships, Scholarships and Events

LSAT Scholarship — Diversity Scholarship Foundation — Applications due September 21!

This Scholarship will be awarded to an undergraduate student who is actively applying to an accredited law school in Illinois, Wisconsin, or Indiana or is a recent graduate with a four-year degree and is taking the LSAT. Eligible students maintain a 3.5 GPA. The award will be sent directly to LSAT or to a law school and/or to a LSAT class provider and/or tutoring for LSAT.  For more information and to apply, click on this link: DSF 2016 Scholarship Application.

Department of State Internships—Apps due Oct. 14

Are you interested in a career as a diplomat? The U.S. Department of State offers students unpaid internships to work in U.S. embassies and consulates around the world and throughout the United States. Must be at least a college junior with minimum 2.5 GPA, U.S. citizen, able to pass a background investigation. All majors accepted. Visit their website here for additional details; you can also subscribe to receive their emails about internship opportunities. Applications are due October 14

Organizing Change Leadership Retreat — Saturday, October 8 – Sunday, October 9, 2016 Join Illinois students from around campus for a free two-day retreat that will build your leadership skills.  Meet students who are active in leading change, and learn how to get involved in the issues that matter to you.

Held at the Lake Williamson all-inclusive retreat near Springfield, Organizing Change features workshops, team building activities, and opportunities to network with other student leaders and staff. Transportation, lodging, and food are provided.  Space is limited. Register for the conference here.

Priority Deadline is Monday, September 26, 2016. Questions? Contact Ross Wantland at DiversityEd@illinois.edu or (217) 244-1814.

Illinois Club Scholarships — Applications Due Saturday, October 15!

Diverse and welcoming, The Illinois Club draws its membership from all areas of the University as well as the surrounding community. Since 1915, The Illinois Club has provided financial support to worthy undergraduate students. We now award scholarships in excess of $20,000 each year.

  • Seven-Nine (7-9) combined Make-A-Difference Awards & Isabelle Purnell Education Awards of $2,500
  • One (1) Judith Life Ikenberry Fine Arts Award of $3,400
  • One (1) Global Focus Award of $2,500

You must be an undergraduate, have earned at least 60 credit hours by the beginning of the Spring 2017 semester, and graduate no earlier than December 2017 to apply. A minimum GPA of 2.75 at both the time of application and winning of award is required. Applicants are evaluated for all awards for which they are eligible. For more information, go here: http://theillinoisclub.org/scholarship.php.  To apply for these scholarships, please complete the application here: http://go.illinois.edu/TICScholarship. Interviews with finalists will be scheduled January 21 and 28, 2017.

The Ohio State University Office of Diversity and Inclusion: Annual Graduate & Professional Student Recruitment Initiative (GPS) Program — Applications due September 16!

The Ohio State University Office of Diversity and Inclusion is pleased to announce that it will hold its annual Graduate & Professional Student Recruitment Initiative (GPS) Program on October 16-18, 2016. GPS is Ohio State’s premier diversity recruitment program for students considering post- baccalaureate studies at Ohio State. As a professional program within GPS, the Moritz College of Law will host several students who are interested in attending law school.

Students should be planning to pursue a post-baccalaureate degree following graduation and meet the following criteria:

  • Be a rising senor eligible to graduate by June 2017
  • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • Demonstrate serious consideration to attend Ohio State
  • Submit an application including:
    • One unofficial transcript
    • A short statement (250 words or less) indicating their research and/or professional interests and why s/he wants to pursue these interests at Ohio State
    • One letter of support from a faculty member
    • CV/resume

Students who are selected by Moritz to attend the GPS Program will have the opportunity to personally see Ohio State and interact with students, faculty and administrators within the law school and the broader university community.  Please encourage one or more of your students to consider submitting an application. Click on the following links to view the  flyer and application for more information regarding this program. GPS 2016 Flyer (3) (002); 2016 GPS Application. 

The GPS application window will remain open until the deadline of September 16 – applications and decisions are on a rolling basis.   Please submit all application materials via email to gps@osu.edu by no later than the September 16 deadline. 

 

 

Want to learn more about law school admissions from the law schools themselves? Attend PLAS programs, starting with tonight’s session with the University of Chicago Law School!

Every law school admissions cycle we hear from students that they want to learn more about the law schools from the people who work there.  That is the right approach for being a successful applicant so PLAS schedules programs to give pre-law students the opportunity to engage with admissions professionals from many law schools. The first such event for this semester is TONIGHT, featuring Ann Perry, Associate Dean for Admissions at the University of Chicago Law School, 5-6pm, Room 514 IUB.  Learn from a veteran law school dean all about how to maximize your admission chances and aid through successful interactions with admissions professionals. No registration is necessary. 

Scroll down for info on upcoming programs with law schools!

Inside Law School Admissions — Monday, October 3, 6:30pm, 1002 Lincoln Hall

How do law school admissions staff really view an application? What do they think about character and fitness issues, multiple LSAT scores, or poor personal statements? Join us as the following three seasoned law school admissions professionals share the inside scoop on how they evaluate applicants. Participants will have the chance to view applications and contribute to the conversation of whether to admit, deny, or waitlist the applicants. This is a must-see for anyone considering applying to law school! 

Panelists include:

  • University of California–Berkeley Associate Director of Admissions Grace Mayeda
  • University of Richmond Associate Dean for Admissions Michelle Rahman
  • University of Illinois Assistant Dean for Admissions and Financial Aid Rebecca Ray

This is your opportunity to meet admissions professionals one-on-one, see how they really evaluate applicants, and get some valuable tips on how to take your law school applications to the next level! No registration necessary.

Law School Admissions Fair — Tuesday, October 4, 10am-2pm, Illini Union A, B, C

Join us for the biggest pre-law event of the year! 120 law school representatives will visit campus to meet prospective students and share information about their law schools, programs, and people. Meet admissions professionals, learn about law schools, get some freebies and application fee waivers! Dress code is business casual. All students, alumni, and community members interested in law school are welcome! This event is free and open to the public. For additional details visit http://prelaw.illinois.edu/law-school-fair

Other law schools have contacted our office about visiting UIUC. Keep checking back for updates to our calendar!

Mark Your Calendars – Week of September 5/6

The semester is in full swing at Pre-Law Advising Services.  We kick off our events TOMORROW, Wednesday, September 7, with a visit from Ann Perry, Associate Dean of Admissions at the University of Chicago Law School.  In addition, the UIUC Office of University Counsel has posted an opening for 1-2 PAID interns, with applications due September 15. Finally, Pre-Law Honors Society is accepting applications and some new scholarships have been announced. Scroll down for info on these opportunities and more!

PLAS Events and Opportunities

Interacting with Law School Admissions: Interviews, Visits and Law Fairs                   Ms. Ann Perry, Associate Dean of Admissions, University of Chicago Law School  TOMORROW, Wednesday, September 7, 5-6pm, 514 IUB

Law school applicants will have several opportunities throughout the application cycle to engage with law school admissions professionals. Whether it is through an interview, at a law fair, or during a law school visit, these interactions can make or break a candidate’s application. What should you wear? What should you talk about? What impresses an admissions dean–or what leaves a terrible impression? Learn from a veteran law school dean, Ms. Ann Perry, Associate Dean for Admissions at the University of Chicago Law School, all about how to maximize your admission and aid through successful interactions with admissions professionals. No registration necessary.

FREE Practice LSAT — Friday, September 9, 8:30am-12:30pm

This proctored practice LSAT provides the opportunity to take an actual Law School Admission Test in a real classroom environment. Whether you are prepping for the September 24 LSAT or you have never taken a practice LSAT before and just want to get a baseline score, this is your chance. This exam will be set up much like the real LSAT: Please bring pencils, personal items, and a snack in a clear plastic baggie.  Location and follow up details will be sent to all registrants within a week of the exam. Please go here to register.

Pre-Law 101 — Monday, September 12, 4-5pm, 514 IUB

This workshop is designed for incoming students who are new to pre-law or are interested in learning more about it. 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. We will outline a four year plan to maximize your undergraduate experiences in order to make a great law school candidate. We’ll also take any questions about law school and legal careers. Please reserve a seat by clicking on this link to ensure enough seating and materials for everyone. Each Pre-Law 101 session is the same. Incoming students should attend a Pre-Law 101 session prior to setting up an individual pre-law advising appointment.

Perfecting Your Personal Statement and Resume for Law School — Monday, September 19, 4-5pm, 514 IUB

The personal statement is one of the most difficult yet powerful elements of the law school application. Join us for this workshop, which will cover what the personal statement is, how to prepare for writing it, and some tips and suggestions for making it reflect an applicant’s strengths. We will also discuss how the personal statement and resume can complement each other to create a stronger law school application. Please register by clicking on this link so that we can ensure enough seating and materials for everyone. Each session is the same, so select the one that best suits your schedule.

Upcoming Campus Events and Opportunities

Political Science Fair — Wednesday, September 7, 2-4:30pm, David Kinley Hall, 4th Floor

The Political Science Fair is tomorrow, September 7 from 2:00pm-4:30pm. Stop by to learn about Political Science student organizations, meet with representatives from resources from all over campus (including PLAS) and talk with classmates and professors. Mark your calendars and we’ll see you then!

UIUC Pre-Law Honors Society — Applications due Monday, September 12th!

The Pre-Law Honors Society of the University of Illinois seeks to provide activities and opportunities that will facilitate the needs and wants of pre-law students who have achieved high honors at the undergraduate level. Through such activities PHS strives to further educate members on the requirements and preparation needed to enter a law school as well as any legal profession or arena.

The application deadline for membership in the UIUC Pre-Law Honors Society is Monday September 12th at 5pm. To apply students must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.3/4.0 and must have completed 30 hours of campus credit prior to initiation (Sophomore status). The link to apply can be found on the PHS official website here: http://uiucprelawhonorssociety.weebly.com/apply-here.html or the PHS Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/759327254205073/770287209775744/?notif_t=group_activity&notif_id=1472580690446433.

PAID Internship — UIUC Office of University Counsel — Applications due September 15!

The Office of University Counsel seeks 1-2 undergraduate student interns for 2016-2017. This PAID position will provide administrative support to the office, with specific duties outlined in the link provided below. Hours per week will depend upon intern availability. 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.

About the office: The Office of University Counsel (OUC) provides legal advice and representation to the university, its administrators/employees, University Related Organizations and others who seek legal advice arising from their official university responsibilities. OUC attorneys provide advice on an extremely wide variety of subjects. The office staff consists of attorneys and staff with unique skills and specialized training, as well as generalists who are well versed in multiple areas of law and policy.

Required: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing; minimum 3.0 GPA; consistent weekly availability. Preference will be given to candidates with availability over breaks.  Applications are due Thursday, September 15! For more information about the position and how to apply, go here: Intern – Urbana – Clerical 2016.

The Career Center fall workshop calendar is posted on their website at:  https://www.careercenter.illinois.edu/events. If you have not done so already, update your resume, plan your job search or summer internship, and get to know their office and resources. All sessions will be held at the Career Center, 715 S. Wright Street, unless otherwise indicated. Upcoming workshops include:

  • Creating Your Powerful Resume: Monday, September 5, 3pm; Tuesday, September 6, 4pm
  • Creating Your Powerful Cover Letter, Tuesday, September 6, 5pm
  • Translating Your Study Abroad Experience, Tuesday, September 6, 6pm
  • Career Fair: Maximizing Your Experience, Wednesday, September 7, 4pm
  • Military Accessions Vital to the National Interest (MAVNI) Program Info Session, Friday, September 9, 3pm, Interview Suite Room 213. MAVNI is a recruiting program that allows legal non-citizens with in-demand skills to join the U.S. Army in exchange for expedited U.S. citizenship. Recruiters from U.S. Army and Navy will explain how to apply and take exams. Some international students who were admitted to MAVNI will share their preparation experiences.

Gilman International Scholarship Program — Info Session Thursday, Sept 8 – 3:30-4:30pm, Room 514 IUB; Application Workshop Friday, Sept 9, 3:30-4:30 pm

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. This is a need based award, and to be eligible, students currently must be receiving a Federal Pell Grant.  The National and International Scholarships Program is willing to assist in reviewing your scholarship application material, in fact, we welcome the opportunity to help make your application more competitive!  As such, we are offering a two-day informational event about the Gilman Scholarship. September 8th from 3:30-4:30 is an informational session and alumni Q&A.  September 9th between 3:30-4:30 is a workshop on how to craft your application essays. 

For more information, contact the scholarships office at topscholars@illinois.edu or visit our website at www.topscholars.illinois.edu

LENS Diversity Certificate — Applications Due THIS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

Join the LENS Diversity Certificate Program Today! The LENS Diversity Certificate Program is a two-semester (Fall 2016-Spring 2017) commitment that provides students with enriching, thought-provoking experiences culminating in a certificate. Get a certificate for taking classes, developing projects with a team of your peers, and attending events! The LENS Diversity Certificate Program operates on a multi-dimensional framework that encourages students to view and explore diversity, social justice, and intercultural relations to develop skills for functioning in a diverse and global society: Learn, Envision, Navigate, and Synthesize.

To apply, go to http://go.illinois.edu/LENS.   For more information about the LENS Diversity Certificate Program, go to http://oiir.illinois.edu/diversityed/lens-certificateor e-mail DiversityEd@illinois.edu.

Provost’s Undergraduate Student Advisory Board — Applications Due THIS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

Established in 2007, the Provost’s Undergraduate Student Advisory Board is overseen by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It is composed of undergraduate students named by each of the undergraduate serving colleges as well as five at-large members selected through this open application process. All members are appointed to serve one-year terms.

Meetings

In Fall 2016, the Board will meet for discussion from 12:00 – 1:00 pm on Tuesday, October 4; Friday, November 4; and Friday, December 2. A buffet lunch will be provided. Dates for the Spring 2017 meetings will be determined at the December meeting.

Mission

The purpose of the Provost’s Undergraduate Student Advisory Board is to work with the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost to:

  • Provide feedback on programs, administrative and academic policies, and initiatives established or overseen by the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education and Innovation.
  • Generate ideas and suggestions for programs and activities to enhance the academic experience of undergraduate students at the university.

Qualifications

  • Undergraduate student standing for the 2016-2017 school year.
  • On campus (not studying abroad or graduating early) both fall and spring.
  • Does not have class or work conflicts with the established fall meeting days/times (see above).
  • Interest in academic affairs initiatives and activities on campus.
  • Strong record of academic achievement (GPA 3.0 or above).
  • Involvement on campus both in academic and extracurricular activities.

Application Process

Interested undergraduate students are encouraged to submit an application. Successful applicants will be notified and may be scheduled for an interview. Applications must be received no later than September 9, 2016. Click on the following link for the application. UG Advisory Board App 2016-17.

Questions about the Provost’s Undergraduate Student Advisory Board may be directed to Assistant Provost Kathy Martensen,kmartens@illinois.edu, or Melinda Schaefer,mschaefr@illinois.edu, phone 217-333-6677.

Upcoming Off Campus Events and Opportunities

LSAT Scholarship — Diversity Scholarship Foundation — Applications due September 21!

This Scholarship will be awarded to an undergraduate student who is actively applying to an accredited law school in Illinois, Wisconsin, or Indiana or is a recent graduate with a four-year degree and is taking the LSAT. Eligible students maintain a 3.5 GPA. The award will be sent directly to LSAT or to a law school and/or to a LSAT class provider and/or tutoring for LSAT.  For more information and to apply, click on this link: DSF 2016 Scholarship Application.

Organizing Change Leadership Retreat — Saturday, October 8 – Sunday, October 9, 2016

Join Illinois students from around campus for a free two-day retreat that will build your leadership skills.  Meet students who are active in leading change, and learn how to get involved in the issues that matter to you.

Held at the Lake Williamson all-inclusive retreat near Springfield, Organizing Change features workshops, team building activities, and opportunities to network with other student leaders and staff.

Transportation, lodging, and food are provided.  Space is limited. Register for the conference here. https://oiir.illinois.edu/events/organizing-change-2016.

Priority Deadline is Monday, September 26, 2016. Questions? Contact Ross Wantland at DiversityEd@illinois.edu or (217) 244-1814.

Illinois Club Scholarships — Applications Due Saturday, October 15!

Diverse and welcoming, The Illinois Club draws its membership from all areas of the University as well as the surrounding community. Since 1915, The Illinois Club has provided financial support to worthy undergraduate students. We now award scholarships in excess of $20,000 each year.

  • Seven-Nine (7-9) combined Make-A-Difference Awards & Isabelle Purnell Education Awards of $2,500
  • One (1) Judith Life Ikenberry Fine Arts Award of $3,400
  • One (1) Global Focus Award of $2,500

You must be an undergraduate, have earned at least 60 credit hours by the beginning of the Spring 2017 semester, and graduate no earlier than December 2017 to apply. A minimum GPA of 2.75 at both the time of application and winning of award is required. Applicants are evaluated for all awards for which they are eligible. For more information, go here: http://theillinoisclub.org/scholarship.php.  To apply for these scholarships, please complete the application here: http://go.illinois.edu/TICScholarship. Interviews with finalists will be scheduled January 21 and 28, 2017.

The Ohio State University Office of Diversity and Inclusion: Annual Graduate & Professional Student Recruitment Initiative (GPS) Program — Applications due September 16!

The Ohio State University Office of Diversity and Inclusion is pleased to announce that it will hold its annual Graduate & Professional Student Recruitment Initiative (GPS) Program on October 16-18, 2016. GPS is Ohio State’s premier diversity recruitment program for students considering post- baccalaureate studies at Ohio State. As a professional program within GPS, the Moritz College of Law will host several students who are interested in attending law school.

Students should be planning to pursue a post-baccalaureate degree following graduation and meet the following criteria:

  • Be a rising senor eligible to graduate by June 2017
  • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • Demonstrate serious consideration to attend Ohio State
  • Submit an application including:
    • One unofficial transcript
    • A short statement (250 words or less) indicating their research and/or professional interests and why s/he wants to pursue these interests at Ohio State
    • One letter of support from a faculty member
    • CV/resume

Students who are selected by Moritz to attend the GPS Program will have the opportunity to personally see Ohio State and interact with students, faculty and administrators within the law school and the broader university community.  Please encourage one or more of your students to consider submitting an application. Click on the following links to view the  flyer and application for more information regarding this program. GPS 2016 Flyer (3) (002); 2016 GPS Application. 

The GPS application window will remain open until the deadline of September 16 – applications and decisions are on a rolling basis.   Please submit all application materials via email to gps@osu.edu by no later than the September 16 deadline. 

 

NEW Legal Administrative Internship!

Intern – Urbana – Clerical 2016 The Office of University Counsel has just approved the hiring of 1-2 PAID undergraduate Legal Administrative Intern positions. These interns will provide administrative support to the University’s team of lawyers, with the possibility of increased responsibilities over time. Check out the attached description for specific job duties.

Required: Sophomore + standing, minimum 3.0 GPA, consistent weekly availability. Preference will be given to candidates with availability over breaks. Click on this link for a full job description and details on how to apply: Intern – Urbana – Clerical 2016

Applications due Sept. 15!