Taking time to explore opportunities before law school can make a meaningful difference in your journey—personally, academically, and professionally. Whether you choose to go “straight through” or take one or more “gap years,” it’s worth considering how extra time and experience might strengthen your application and set you up for long-term success in law school and beyond.
Explore the resources below to help you decide which path is right for you!
View this brief virtual workshop discussing Gap Years!
(Click on the image to view)
Watch! Gap Year Perspectives Panel
PLAS hosted a panel of Illinois pre-law alumni who shared their insights and experiences taking time to pursue opportunities before beginning law school. The Gap Year Perspectives Panel, held on November 18, 2025, offered valuable reflections on the benefits of gaining experience prior to entering law school. Learn more about our accomplished panelists below!
Meet the Panelists
Alaina Bottens ’21
Southern Environmental Law Center, Atlanta, GA
“There is so much value to taking a gap year – I can’t say enough about it! I confirmed that the law aligned with my values and goals, built a professional support network, and gained experience that will add depth and meaning to my work in law school. I feel like I have a foundation to stand on for the rest of my career.”
Cecilia Espinosa ’25
James H. Dunn Memorial Fellow, Office of the Illinois Governor, Federal Affairs Team
“I highly recommend taking time off between undergrad and law school. As a first-generation student, I used my undergraduate time for study abroad, leadership, and networking, finding that a majority of professionals advised taking at least a year between undergrad and grad school. This break allows you to gain experience, confirm your chosen path, and continue learning outside of academia, which is just as valuable as going straight to school.”
Esther Huescas ’23
Immigration Legal Assistant at Minsky, McCormick & Hallagan, P.C.,
Harvard Law School, Class of 2028
“I wholeheartedly believe taking a gap year(s) is an invaluable experience. Not only will it allow you to grow professionally and personally, but it will make you a stronger applicant. Law school is a professional degree, and my prior work experience has allowed me to have a healthier approach to the demanding work environment.”
Joe Kritz ’24
Customer Account Specialist at C.H. Robinson Worldwide,
Loyola University Chicago School of Law Class of 2028
“I highly recommend all aspiring law students to take a gap year between UIUC and law school. My gap year helped me grow professionally and adjust to life after undergrad.”
Mark Maddock ‘ 22
United States Sentencing Commission,
University of Chicago Law School Class of 2028
“My aspirations to affect political and legal change require a legal education of the highest quality and the knowledge resulting from work experience. My two years at the United States Sentencing Commission were crucial in preparing me for the University of Chicago’s rigorous Juris Doctor curriculum.”
Links referenced in the video:
Are you interested in hearing additional perspectives? Watch the Fall 2024 Panel to hear from additional alumni about their diverse experiences!
