Month: October 2016

Mark Your Calendars — Week of October 31

Pre-Law Events

Pre-Law 101 Workshop TODAY –  Monday October 31, 3-4pm, 514 Illini Union Bookstore Building

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. Although registration for this event has closed, we will be able to accommodate students on a first-come, first served basis.  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.

Personal Statement and Resume Workshop – NEXT Tuesday, November 8, 4-5pm, Room 503, Illini Union Bookstore Building

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 click on this link to register so that we can ensure enough seating and materials for everyone.

Great Opportunities This Week Across Campus

Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program — Deadline Wednesday, November 2!

Now in its second year of collaboration, the Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) and the Graduate College offer the opportunity for first and second-year undergraduate students (including transfer students) to assist advanced graduate students (those who have completed all coursework requirements and are in the dissertation research stage) with their research projects. Through a one-on-one research experience with their graduate student mentor, undergraduate students will have the opportunity to learn what it means to do research, create knowledge, and produce scholarship. Undergraduate students will begin work with their mentors in Spring 2017.

Undergraduate researchers will be given flexible course credit, at a minimum of 2 (equal to approximately 6 hours per week) and a maximum of 3 credit hours (equal to approximately 9 hours per week). Undergraduate students will attend regular (biweekly, i.e., every other week) class meetings with OUR and Grad College instructors, as well as work one-on-one with their graduate mentors. Students will also complete a final project, consisting of a research poster, to be presented during “Undergraduate Research Week” sponsored by the Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR). For more information, including how to apply, please see the blog on OUR’s webpage – www.undergradresearch.illinois.edu. The URL for the blog post is: https://illinois.edu/blog/view/6204/414620

Deadline for application is November 2, 2016. Questions may be addressed to: ugresearch@illinois.edu; please put “URAP” in the subject line.

Pre-Law Club and Pre-Law Honors Society Present – Wake Forest University School of Law, NEXT Monday, November 7, 6pm, Lincoln Hall Room 1060

Want to meet law school admissions people and learn more about the stress-inducing personal statement? Wake Forest University School of Law will be coming to deliver a presentation on how to craft a strong personal statement as well as provide tips on how to approach the law school application process.  All pre-law students are welcome so mark your calendars and take advantage of this great opportunity!

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:

  • Finding an Internship, Tuesday, November 1, 4 pm
  • Global Career Opportunity: Careers and the UN and International Organizations, Wednesday, November 2, 3-6pm, School of Information Sciences Bldg, Rooms 126 & 131
  • Creating Your Powerful Resume, Wednesday, November 2, 4-5pm
  • Creating Your Powerful Cover Letter, Wednesday, November 2, 5-6pm
  • Translating Your Study Abroad Experiences, Wednesday, November 2, 6-7pm
  • Resume, Cover Letter, & LinkedIn Reviews
    • October 31, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • October 31, 7-9 pm, Undergraduate Library, Consultation Corner
    • November 1, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • November 1, 5:30-7:30, the IKE, Room 1010A
    • November 2, 2-4:30 pm at the Career Center
    • November 2, 7-9pm, Undergrad Library,Consultation Corner
    • November 3 & 4, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • November 6, 4-9pm, Undergrad Library, Consultation Corner

More Career Center events and times are listed on their website.  Click on this link to see what other programs are being offered!

Law School Admissions Events

Save the Date – Midwest Law School Virtual Fair is Wednesday November 9th

Planning to apply to law school in the Midwest?  The Virtual Fair will allow you to have your admissions questions answered by representatives from law schools across the Midwest in this FREE live online event.  Get immediate answers to your pressing questions without the cost of travel.  Only a one-time registration is required to explore and interact with multiple schools. For more information, call 770-980-0088 or to register: https://www.careereco.com/Fair/EventDetails?fairId=9efa1e96-3688-44b4-b606-a65200d69a89

New York University Law School — Online Admissions Event — Tuesday, November 15, 9-10am CST

To chat live with an admissions officer, plan ahead to join our online information sessions this fall. We strive to offer all applicants at least one opportunity to join these online sessions with an admissions officer in order to ask questions about our programs, the admissions process, or application procedures in a public forum. Go here for more info and to participate in this event.

Upcoming Law School Open Houses and Admissions Events

As we explained in an earlier blog post, most law schools will offer tours or open houses for prospective applicants.  Upcoming events include the following Open Houses: the University of Chicago Law School – Monday, November 21; DePaul University College of Law – Saturday, November 12; John Marshall Law School – Saturday, November 19. For more information check out the blog post or go to our Compass page for a list of such events at several Illinois law schools.  You can find it by going to Compass and clicking on the “Applying to Law School” tab.  It is the first item in that section. Fall break is usually a good time to attend one of these events or to contact the schools to arrange a visit so make your plans now!

Pre-Law Resumes – Things to Keep and Things to Delete

Whether or not you are new to pre-law, it is important to update your resume often. Here are some tips for creating the best pre-law resume while in undergrad. These resumes will be important for applying to jobs and internships throughout undergrad and later on when you apply to law school.

Thoughts and Tips for All Undergrads and Alumni Considering Law School:

  1. Update your resume often. Keep track of awards, jobs, volunteer work, and other extracurricular activities.
    1. After you complete a job, internship, or other activity,  add that work to your resume as soon as possible. It is easier to remember all the work you did while you are currently doing it or shortly afterwards instead of months later.
    2. You never want to say in an interview: “I forgot to include …”
  2. Organize your resume from most recent job or activity to the oldest. Highlight the most recent opportunities and then work backwards.
  3. Remember the audience. Keep in mind who will be reading your resume eventually – a law school. Be professional and appropriate with what you include on your resume.
  4. High school activities: by sophomore year second semester or junior year first semester, all of your high school activities should be taken off your resume. Unless there is a spectacular award or opportunity you had while in high school that directly relates to law school, you should now be highlighting your more relevant and recent undergrad accomplishments.
  5. Quantify the details of your experiences. There is a big difference between being the president of a group of 200 people versus a group of 20. Give the audience a better picture of the responsibilities you had.
    1. Other quantifiable factors to consider: Did you have a budget for a student group? Were you in contact with professors, national advisors, or managers often? How long did you have this job for? How often did your group meet? If possible, try to show the readers that you can be trusted with important tasks and are committed to your activities or jobs.
  6. Visit our website for more information and tips to make sure your resume is perfect.
  7. Have someone proofread your resume. A friend, family member, or professor are all great people to ask. The Pre-Law Advising Services office will proofread your resume and offer feedback during the application process. Please make an appointment by calling 217-333-9669. Additionally, the Career Center offers many opportunities to have your resume reviewed. Click here for more information on their services.

Building Your Resume Early (Freshmen and Sophomores) –

  1. Get involved early on at the University of Illinois – clubs, volunteering, and other student groups are all great ways to get involved on campus, gain leadership opportunities, and to get the most out of your college experience.
  2. Focus on your grades first and extracurricular activities second. Law schools want to see that you are primarily dedicated to academics and your schoolwork, but it can help to show that you are balanced and also committed to a few select groups. If you are a member of a dozen different groups, that shows a lack of commitment and could end up being a waste of your time.
  3. Join things that excite you or that you are passionate about. Pick something you know you are good at or want to learn more about. Try to capitalize on these opportunities during undergrad. There are more than 1,400 organizations at Illinois – try a few out early on and see what you like the best.
  4. Try to study abroad. Law schools and legal employers like to see candidates with exposure to international cultures and issues, along with language skills. It shows not only an awareness of the global scale of local issues but a willingness to work with a wide variety of people from all kinds of backgrounds and an interest in other cultures. Language skills are a big plus to a multinational legal entity. If your goal is to work in federal government or politics domestically, getting those contacts and experiences early will be a huge plus in the competitive world of federal government work.

When writing your resume, think about what you did that made an impact or what made your University of Illinois experience unique.

 

Need more things to add to your resume? Check out the Fall 2016 Illini Career & Internship Fair – TODAY! Wednesday October 26, 12:00pm – 4:00pm, ARC Gym 2

A fair focused on industries that recruit students from the liberal arts and humanities, media, education, and applied health sciences.

See the Career Center website for more information on employers attending and how to prepare for a career fair.

Mark Your Calendars – Week of October 24

Pre-Law Advising Services is hosting  an “Applying to Law School Workshop” TODAY. There are also many great campus events. Happy Homecoming!

Pre-Law Events This Week

TODAY – Applying to Law School Workshop Monday October 24, 4:00-5:15PM, 503 Illini Union Bookstore

Are you applying to law school in the next year? This workshop will provide an overview of the law school application process, including: Understanding each element of the application, making a timeline for perfecting the application, researching law schools, and creating a strategy for maximizing admissions and aid through the application process. Participants will leave with a detailed application plan, along with tips and suggestions on best application practices. The last 15 minutes will be set aside for Q&A so that individual questions can be addressed.

Last Chance to Sign Up for a December LSAT Study Group!

Do you work better in a group setting? Would the accountability of a study group help you in your LSAT preparation? The Pre-Law office would like to facilitate the creation of LSAT study groups. Utilize this sign-up to find other LSAT students with whom you can work: sign up here.

1) Fill out the Google survey.

2) Fill out the best days you are available to study and how many hours per week you plan to study for the upcoming LSAT.

Within the next two weeks, we will send out groups of people that can meet at similar times so you can organize your study groups as soon as possible.

Here is the link again: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfoVXhtus8BfPK1PJ831svvAolMH8C6D_HTYIo4NKSR8x3hzg/viewform

Save the Date – Midwest Law School Virtual Fair is Wednesday November 9th

Planning to apply to law school in the Midwest?  The Virtual Fair will allow you to have your admissions questions answered by representatives from law schools across the Midwest in this FREE live online event.  Get immediate answers to your pressing questions without the cost of travel.  Only a one-time registration is required to explore and interact with multiple schools. For more information, call 770-980-0088 or to register: https://www.careereco.com/Fair/EventDetails?fairId=9efa1e96-3688-44b4-b606-a65200d69a89

Great Opportunities This Week Across Campus:

TODAY October 24th – LAS Tech Literacy Series Presents: Get Your Hands Out of Your Pockets and Stop Reading Off the Slides: A Primer on Microsoft PowerPoint  Lincoln Hall 4051 from 4:00-5:30

Fall 2016 Illini Career & Internship Fair – Wednesday October 26, 12:00pm-4:00pm, ARC Gym 2

A fair focused on industries that recruit students from the liberal arts and humanities, media, education, and applied health sciences.

See the Career Center website for more information on employers attending and how to prepare for a career fair.

Considering a Federal Government Job? The Career Center has resources for you.

The federal government is the nation’s largest employer with over two million employees.  Positions with federal agencies can be found across the country, overseas, and in countless career fields. A career in federal government can be a good option for students who want to make a significant impact on others and care about good governance. A great option too if you want to take time off between undergrad and law school!

ESL Grammar Workshops – “Sentence Structure” Workshop, Thursday October 27 5:00PM-7:00PM at FLB G27

The workshops are free, but seats are limited. Sign up using this link for all workshops.

TODAY at the University of Illinois College of Law: Dean’s Public Engagement Lecture Series: Illinois Supreme Court Justice Thomas L. Kilbride, Monday, October 24, 2016 Max L. Rowe Auditorium, Law Building 12:00 PM–1:00 PM

Justice Kilbride will visit the campus on October 24, 2016 and will discuss “Illinois Supreme Court Elections: Darned if you do, darned if you don’t!” Free and open to the public. Lunch will be provided.

Also at the University of Illinois College of Law this week: “A New U.S. Approach to International Law Making in the 21st Century” lecture by Harold Koh (Yale University), Friday, October 28, 2016 Max L. Rowe Auditorium, Law Building 12:00 PM–1:00 PM

In his Vacketta-DLA Piper Lecture, Professor Koh, an international lawyer who served as Legal Adviser of the Obama State Department, asks whether this presages new forms of international lawmaking for the United States in the 21st Century. The event is free and open to the public.

“Lunch on Us” Program

The Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations Offers “Lunch on Us” every day across campus– featuring speakers, panels, and resources at the University of Illinois, all lunches introduce you to the cultures, histories, and societal issues that the diverse communities of our campus face.

Here is the link for more information about the lunches coming up soon! https://oiir.illinois.edu/events/lunch/fall2016

Tomorrow! Dine: Diversity & Inclusion Networking Exchange — network with employers who value diversity. Tuesday, October 25, 2016, 6–8pm Illini Union Ballroom (Second Level, 1401 E. Green St.) Register to attend at go.illinois.edu/DINE2016

Join us for networking activities, prizes, food, and fun. Network with employers such as AT&T, Abercrombie & Fitch, FBI, Peace Corp, Union Pacific Railroad, and more!

  • Engage with employers who value diversity
  • Practice networking in a casual setting
  • Discover the qualities employers seek in potential candidates
  • Learn what questions you should ask to determine if an organization meets your diverse needs

This is event is sponsored by Career Services Network, Office of Minority Student Affairs (OMSA), the Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations, and University Housing.

Mindful Meditation at the Spurlock Museum, Friday October 28 – 11:30AM -12:00PM

It’s the fifth anniversary of free mindful meditation practice at Spurlock! If you’ve heard good things about the benefits of mindfulness and have been wanting to learn more, this series offers a start. During each 30-minute session, Mary Wolters of Green Yoga Spa will help participants bring a focus to their breathing and share tips for how to engage mindfully. No registration or special equipment is necessary, and participants may attend as many or few sessions as they like. The series continues each Friday through 12/16, with no meeting on Friday 11/25/16.

Important info for Sept 2016 LSAT takers & Deciding whether to retake

The Sept LSAT scores are coming out this week! If you took the September LSAT, please take a moment to review this very important information on December registration. Then, this blog entry will go on to discuss how to decide whether to retake.

December LSAT registration.  As you know, the LSAC indicated that scores would be released on Oct. 20, but the registration deadline for the December LSAT is Oct. 18. IF you took the September LSAT and you decide you want to retake in December, the LSAC will refund your late registration fee. BUT you must register by Oct. 25 and request the refund by Oct. 29. Mark your calendars!

Here are instructions, straight from the LSAC website: LSAC will honor requests for refunds of the additional late registration fee ($90) from candidates who choose not to register by the regular registration deadline for the December LSAT because they needed time to consider their options after receiving their scores from the September test. Candidates who take the September 2016 test and have a valid score will have until October 25, 2016, to register for the December 2016 test. Unfortunately, we are unable to waive the late fee at the time of registration; therefore, eligible candidates must submit a written request for a refund of the late fee within 4 days after the October 25 late registration deadline. Refunds will not be issued to those who were absent, cancelled their score, or were dismissed from the test. Requests should be emailed to LSACrefunds@LSAC.org and should include “Late Fee Refund” in the subject line.

Whether to retake the LSAT. The bigger question for many of you will be: Should I retake the LSAT? This consideration is even more important due to the timing of the next LSAT (in December).

How do Illini perform on an LSAT retake? As a general guideline, most retakers score within 2.5 points of where they scored on the last LSAT. We did a study of University of Illinois LSAT takers from 2012-2015 and found these results:

  • 44% of Illini took the LSAT more than once
  • The average Illini LSAT retaker scored 2.45 points higher on the second exam
  • Of all Illini LSAT retakers:
  • 51% of Illini retakers scored better on a subsequent LSAT
  • 15% of Illini retakers scored worse on a subsequent LSAT
  • 6% of Illini retakers scored the same on a subsequent LSAT
  • 33% of Illini register to retake and then are absent for the subsequent exam

Some questions to ask yourself about whether to retake:

  • Was your actual score consistent with your practice exams?
  • Do you have the time and willingness to continue your LSAT preparation consistently until December?
  • How will you continue LSAT prep without your academics suffering? (Consider final papers and exams.)
  • What can you do differently so that this exam performance is better?
  • How close is your score to the medians of your top choice law schools? Is it likely that you could achieve the medians by retaking?

If you decide to retake in December, here are some suggested next steps:

  • Register ASAP; you may not get your preferred test site and that will mean making other arrangements such as a hotel
  • It is VERY important that you return to studying for the LSAT now! Don’t wait.
  • Clear your upcoming schedule as much as possible to allow you to balance prepping for the LSAT and prepping for final exams/papers/projects.
  • Consider doing something different in your LSAT prep–exploring a different book, class, website, using a different study plan, etc. (For some suggested resources visit our Compass page and click on the LSAT folder.)
  • Revamp your application timeline. Your goal should be to apply by mid-January, when the December LSAT scores will be released.

You may find it helpful to speak with a Pre-Law Advisor about next steps. Call 333-9669 to make an appointment!

 

Mark Your Calendars–Week of October 17

Lots of great campus activities are coming up, including a virtual law fair, upcoming webinars, and two opportunities for internship fairs.

Upcoming Pre-Law Advising Services Events

Our Applying to Law School workshop will be held Monday, Oct. 24 from 4:00-5:15 in 503 Illini Union Bookstore Building. Designed for students who are currently in the application process, this workshop will provide an in-depth overview, including: Understanding each element of the application, making a timeline for perfecting the application, researching law schools, and creating a strategy for maximizing admissions and aid through the application process. Participants will leave with a detailed application plan, along with tips and suggestions on best application practices. The last 15 minutes will be set aside for Q&A so that individual questions can be addressed.

Law School Events

Law schools are starting to hold Open House and other recruiting events. Check the websites of your top choice law schools and explore our list here.

Michigan State University College of Law’s Fall 2016 Webinar Series has begun. For more information or to register for these, visit their website here. Upcoming webinars:

  • Crafting a Winning Law School Personal Statement–Tuesday, Oct. 18 from 6:30-7:30pm
  • Should I Become a Lawyer? A Roadmap for Those Thinking About Law School–Wednesday, Oct. 19, 6:30-7:30 pm
  • Recommendations for Assembling a Competitive Law School Application, Wednesday, October 16, 6:30-7:30 pm

Midwest Law School Virtual Fair — Wednesday, November 9

Planning to apply to law school in the Midwest?  The Virtual Fair will allow you to have your admissions questions answered by representatives from law schools across the Midwest in this FREE live online event.  Get immediate answers to your pressing questions without the cost of travel.  Only a one-time registration is required to explore and interact with multiple schools. For more information, call 770-980-0088.  Go here to register! 

Upcoming Campus Events and Opportunities

LAS in C-U: A local internship fair, Wednesday, October 19 from 1-3 pm in Illini Union 2nd Floor Ballroom. Features 40-plus employers seeking undergraduate LAS interns both during the school year and the summer.

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.

Are you getting ready to sign a lease for next year? Know what you’re getting into! Campus and Community Student Services is offering a Lease Lasso workshop on October 19 at 1:00 pm in Illini Union 210 GL.

DINE: Diversity & Inclusion Networking Exchange will be held Tuesday, Oct. 25 from 6-8 pm in the Illini Union 2nd Floor Ballroom. Network with employers + discover qualities the employers are seeking. Also enjoy food, fun, and prizes! Click here to register.

LGBT Student Ally Training, October 18 from 7-8:30 pm in Illini Union 217. Being an ally on gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender issues is the process of working to develop individual attitudes, institutions, and culture in which gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people feel they matter. In doing so, allies also work to end homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, and heterosexism.

Interconnect Dinner Dialogue on Mindfulness: Discovering a Peaceful Mind for Success on Wednesday, Oct 19th, 6:30-7:30 at the Asian American Cultural Center, 1210 W Nevada. Our world is busy and can be stressful at times. Discover inner calm that can help you take steady steps towards success in life.

La Casa:  Talking to Our Families. October 20th, from 6-7pm  in Pennsylvania Ave Residence Hall, Multipurpose Room 0117. Do you feel disconnected talking with your friends and family back home?  Do you feel misunderstood when you try to explain your goals and passions to your parents/ guardians?  Join this conversation to engage students and create solidarity through shared experiences.

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:

  • Selling Your LAS Degree at Career Fairs, Monday, October 17, 3pm, Lincoln Hall 1002
  • Finding an Internship, Tuesday, October 18, 4 pm
  • Graduate and Professional School Fair, Tuesday October 19, 12-4 pm in Illini Union Rooms A, B,C
  • International Career Forum, Friday, October 21, 2:00-6:00, Illini Union 2nd Floor Ballroom 
  • Resume, Cover Letter, & LinkedIn Reviews
    • October 17, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • October 17, 7-9 pm, Undergraduate Library, Consultation Corner
    • October 18, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • October 18, 5:30-7:30, the IKE, Room 1010A
    • October 19, 2-4:30 pm at the Career Center
    • October 19, 7-9pm, Undergrad Library,Consultation Corner
    • October 20, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center

More Career Center events and times are listed on their website.  Click on this link to see what other programs are being offered!

 

December LSAT Reminders

The December LSAT is set for December 3, less than two months away.  If you are planning on taking the December LSAT, here are some suggestions to get your preparation going:

  1. If you haven’t already done so, register ASAP!  The regular registration deadline is October 18.  The late registration deadline is October 25.  For those of you waiting for your September results, LSAC indicates they will be released on October 20, which falls after the regular registration deadline but before the late registration deadline.  LSAC’s policy with regard to this situation is as follows:
    “If you missed the regular registration deadline for the upcoming LSAT because you were waiting for your score from the previous administration, you are eligible, upon request, for a refund of the late fee that you incur during the late registration period. After you register for the upcoming test, submit a written request for a refund of the late fee within 4 days after the late registration deadline. Please note that late fee refunds will be issued only to those who received a valid score for the prior administration. Refunds will not be issued to those who were absent, cancelled their score, or were dismissed from the test.”  Go here for information about the LSAC’s LSAT fee refund request process. http://www.lsac.org/jd/lsat/lsat-cas-refunds.
  2. Join a study group. Do you work better in a group setting? Would the accountability of a study group help you in your LSAT preparation? The Pre-Law office is working  to facilitate the creation of LSAT study groups but so far only two students have completed the survey.  If you want to take advantage of this opportunity, go here ASAP to complete the Google survey. The deadline for study group request submissions is MONDAY, OCTOBER 24! 
  3. Clear your schedule!  Whether this is your first time taking the LSAT or a retake, you need to make this a priority by setting aside as much time as possible for your test prep.  Remember:  a good LSAT score will not only help you with admissions but will also help with merit-based scholarships. Maximizing your LSAT test prep time investment now could minimize your financial investment later!!

Mark Your Calendars — Week of October 10

It is another busy week.  Please scroll down for info on Pre-Law 101, a Yale Law School webinar, and a personal statement and pizza event featuring two law school admissions deans!

PLAS Events

Pre-Law 101 — TODAY, 4-5pm, Room 514 IUB

This workshop is designed for 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 at the link above 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.  If you haven’t already registered for this event, there may be a few seats available on a first-come, first served basis.

Yale Law School — Admissions Webinar this Thursday, October 13, Noon-1pm

Please join Yale Law School Admissions for a video webinar with other prospective law school applicants. Craig Janecek, Director of Admissions, will be available to answer your questions about legal education, the application process, and life at Yale Law School. Go here to register:  law-yale.adobeconnect.com/yls16-9/event/event_info.html. For more information, go to the PLAS Events Calendar.

Deans Break Down the Personal Statement — Thursday, October 13, 5pm, 1022 Lincoln Hall

What do law school deans really think about personal statements? What works? What doesn’t? What leaves them scratching their head, and what makes them jump for joy? Join us for pizza and expert advice! Two law school admissions deans–Issa DiSciullo Assistant Dean for Admissions and Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Drexel University School of Law and Christopher Lucak, Assistant Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at Cleveland-Marshall College of Law–will share their inside perspective of the personal statement. You’ll leave knowing how to make your personal statement pop as well as what to avoid in writing this very important document. Pizza will be served!

Upcoming Campus Events and Opportunities

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
    • October 10, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • October 10, 7-9 pm, Undergraduate Library, Consultation Corner
    • October 11, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center 
    • October 11, 5:30-7:30, the IKE, Room 1010A
    • October 12, 2-4:30 pm at the Career Center
    • October 12, 7-9pm, Undergrad Library,Consultation Corner
    • October 13, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • October 14, 2-4:30pm at the Career Center
    • October 16, 4-9pm, Undergrad Library, Consultation Corner
  • Career Fairs: Maximizing Your Experience, Tuesday, October 11, 4pm
  • Build the Skills Employers Want, Wednesday, October 12, 4pm
  • International Students — Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Internship Workshop, Thursday, October 13, Career Center Interview Suite, Room 213, 616 East Green Street
  • Acing Your Interview, Thursday, October 13, 4pm
  • Strategic Use of LinkedIn for International Students, Friday, October 14, 3pm Career Center Interview Suite, 616 E Green Street, Room 213,
  • Best Job Search Resources for International Students, Friday, October 14, 4pm, Career Center Interview Suite, 616 E Green Street, Room 213

More Career Center events and times are listed on their website.  Click on this link to see what other programs are being offered!

And coming soon….

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 THIS 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.

Midwest Law School Virtual Fair — Wednesday, November 9

Planning to apply to law school in the Midwest?  The Virtual Fair will allow you to have your admissions questions answered by representatives from law schools across the Midwest in this live online event.  Get immediate answers to your pressing questions without the cost of travel.  Only a one-time registration is required to explore and interact with multiple schools. For more information, call 770-980-0088.  Go here to register! 

Internships and Scholarships

Department of State Internships—Apps due THIS Friday, 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

Illinois Club Scholarships — Applications Due THIS 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 School Open Houses and Tours – To Go or Not to Go?

The answer: go! Try to attend as many open houses and tours as you can. Make the time now to attend these events to visit the school, see what you think of the location, observe a class or two if possible, and consider other factors that are important to you. Attending open houses will make your law school decision much easier later on.

Once the Law School Fair is over on Tuesday, you should begin planning and registering for open houses and touring schools. Listed below are the open houses or tour opportunities for schools in Illinois.

Open House/Tour Info for Illinois Law Schools 2016-2017

Note, the first open house is THIS weekend at John Marshall on October 8. The next one is on October 15 at Chicago-Kent.

Please check our Compass page for more information. The information is located in Compass under the “Applying to Law School Folder.”

Once you decide to attend a law school open house or tour, here are a few things you should do.

  1. REGISTER! Make you are following the school’s directions and reserve a spot for the open house or tour.
  2. Dress professionally for the event. Likely the open houses will have a business casual dress code. Tours may be more casual attire, but check with the school and see what they encourage prospective students to wear.
  3. Read the website and be familiar with the time, date, where to park, and what to bring to the event.

Also, research schools that you are considering out of state. Most schools offer open houses throughout the year and regular tours. Make use of the week off for Thanksgiving break and the long winter break for farther distance trips. Schedule these events early!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coffee With Indiana Law – This Thursday

Stop by for Coffee with Indiana Mauer School of Law’s Director of Admissions – Thursday October 6

Stop by for coffee and meet Janet Hein, Director of Admissions. She will be answering your questions about Indiana Law and the application process. Many University of Illinois students choose Indiana Law each year, now is a great time to learn more about their school.

The event will be THIS THURSDAY October 6 from 11:00AM – 12:00PM in Room 504 in the Illini Union Bookstore Building.

Hope to see you there!

Mark Your Calendars: Week of October 3rd

The Law School Fair is TOMORROW Tuesday October 4, at the Illini Union in Rooms A, B, and C. We are looking forward to seeing many of you there!

 Join us as over 100 law schools visit campus to meet with prospective students. Gather information about law schools, talk with admissions professionals about their schools, collect some fun freebies and law school application fee waivers. This event is FREE and open to the public. Dress is business casual. For more information, including a list of law schools attending the fair, visit our website. See you at the fair! No registration is required.

Four Things to Do Before the Law School Fair

Here are a few things to do before to get the most of out of the Law School Fair.

  1. Look at the Schools’ Websites and Do Some Background Research
    1. Have specific questions for the admissions representatives that are coming to campus. Most basic questions can be answered by simply looking at the website (GPAs, LSAT scores, where their graduates work, professors, etc).
    2. Example questions to ask: where do students typically work after their first year summer? What is the school environment like? Are there study groups or other academic resources available? What do students do in their free time? How many students are involved in clubs and activities? What is the most popular class at the law school?
  2. Have an Elevator Pitch Ready
    1. What’s an elevator pitch? It is a 30 second introductory speech about yourself.
    2. The elevator pitch should start out by telling the representative your name, your hometown, your major, when you are applying to law school, and why you are interested in that specific law school. The law schools want to get to know you, so you should tell them a little about yourself.
    3. Don’t read off the speech, consider it the beginning of a conversation.
  3. Get Your Outfit Ready
    1. Dress is business causal for the event.
    2. Men – A dress shirt, dress pants, and a tie are appropriate. No suit coat is needed.
    3. Women – A dress shirt, blouse, or sweater, and dress pants or a skirt are appropriate.
  4. Things to Bring With to the Event
    1. A list of schools you want to talk to and why you are interested in those law schools.
    2. A notebook and pencil. If you are impressed with a school or want to remember a specific detail about a conversation, it is best to write it down right away.
    3. No need to bring a resume – most law schools will not accept resumes at this event.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

TODAY – Monday October 3 at 6:30PM in 1092 Lincoln Hall– Law School Admissions Panel featuring

University of Richmond School of Law

Notre Dame Law School

University of California – Berkeley School of Law

University of Illinois College of Law

Boston College Law School

Widener University Commonwealth Law School

 This program is designed to cover the elements of the admissions process through a participatory and engaging exercise. This presentation will be of great interest to you and you will take away “inside” information that will be helpful to you in applying to any law school.

Monday, October 3, 2016 6:30 – 8:00 PM

Lincoln Hall, Room 1092 (**This room has recently been updated.)

For more information, please visit our website.

Also, we have many other events this week including:

2016 Law School Fair – TOMORROW, Tuesday October 4, 2016 – Illini Union Rooms A, B, C

Our biggest event of the year is almost here! Join us for the 2016 Law School Fair TOMORROW, Tuesday, October 4 from 10:00-2:00 at the Illini Union! Over 100 law schools will be here to visit with ALL students. Dress is business casual. It is not necessary to bring a résumé, but you may bring business cards. Most schools will have a sign-in sheet for you to provide your contact information if you wish. Bring your questions about the schools and their programs. Find out about joint degree programs. Ask about scholarships. Talk with admissions reps about what law schools are looking for. Ask questions, collect some freebies and fee waivers, and learn about law school admissions from the experts. For more details like who is coming and what to expect, check out our website. See you there!

Perfecting Your Personal Statement & Resume for Law School: Thursday, October 6, 12:30-1:30PM in IUB 503

The personal statement and resume are a law school applicant’s opportunity to tell a school all about yourself and why you will make a great addition to their class. Students consistently tell us that this is the hardest part of the application, so we have developed this workshop to provide some insight. We will cover: What the personal statement is; how to begin writing it; what to include and exclude; writing separate addenda; how the personal statement and resume should work together; and an overview of the law school resume. Bring your questions because there will be plenty of time to ask them. Please register here.

Pre-Law 101: Monday October 10, 4:00-5:00PM in IUB 514

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 extracurricular activities, 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.

 Taking the December LSAT? Sign up for a December LSAT Study Group.

Do you work better in a group setting? Would the accountability of a study group help you in your LSAT preparation? The Pre-Law office would like to facilitate the creation of LSAT study groups. Utilize this sign-up to find other LSAT students with whom you can work: sign up here.

1) Fill out the Google survey.

2) Fill out the best days you are available to study and how many hours per week you plan to study for the upcoming LSAT.

Within the next two weeks, we will send out groups of people that can meet at similar times so you can organize your study groups as soon as possible.

Here is the link again:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfoVXhtus8BfPK1PJ831svvAolMH8C6D_HTYIo4NKSR8x3hzg/viewform

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.

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.

Byron Hurt, Filmmaker & Anti-Sexist Activist –A World Without Domestic Violence
Tuesday, October 18, 7 pm, Allen Hall
Unit One Allen Hall Main Lounge | 1005 W. Gregory Dr., Urbana

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Keynote. Byron Hurt is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, published writer, anti-sexist activist, and lecturer. He is also the former host of the Emmy-nominated television show, REEL WORKS with BYRON HURT. For more than 20 years, Hurt has been using his craft, his voice, and his writings to broaden and deepen how people think about gender violence, race, music, visual media, and food justice. As an activist, Byron has served as a gender violence prevention educator. The former Northeastern University football quarterback was also a founding member of the Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) program, the leading college-based rape and domestic violence prevention initiative for college and professional athletics. Hurt also served as an Associate Director of the first gender violence prevention program in the United States Marine Corps. Byron’s lecture will be from 7-8pm and his Meet n’ Greet will be from 8-9pm.