Senior Pre-Law Student Perspectives

My favorite study spots on campus are the main library, the psychology building, and multiple coffee shops like Espresso Royale.

Through my time at UIUC, I’ve developed a wide range of academic, personal, and professional skills. Academically, I’ve learned to read and think critically, as well as collaborate effectively in group settings. Personally, I’ve gained a strong sense of time management and responsibility, balancing multiple leadership roles and courses that have strengthened my commitment to my work. Professionally, I’ve enhanced my communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities, which will undoubtedly benefit me in my future career.

My favorite part of being an Illini is being part of the many diverse communities on campus. I’ve had the opportunity to join various student organizations and connect with people from a wide range of backgrounds and interests. Building these relationships and contributing to a vibrant campus community has made my college experience truly meaningful and impactful.

One piece of advice I’d give my freshman self is to get as involved as possible. Whether it’s joining RSOs, attending office hours, or participating in workshops and events across campus, take every opportunity to engage. Getting involved not only helps you adjust to the UIUC community but also allows you to meet people who share your interests and goals, creating connections that will support and shape your college experience over the next four years.

One stereotype I’ve found to be untrue is that all professors are strict and unapproachable. Throughout my time at UIUC, I’ve had amazing professors who are welcoming, kind, and genuinely invested in their students’ success. Many have been eager to build relationships, offer mentorship, and go out of their way to provide support both inside and outside the classroom.

My favorite activity on campus is going for runs along the many trails surrounding
Urbana-Champaign. Exploring the area through running has been a great way to connect with the UIUC community, enjoy nature, and discover what each town has to offer. I also enjoy going to UIUC sports events, especially football, basketball, and volleyball games. The energy and school spirit at these events are incredible, and it’s always so much fun to cheer on the Illini alongside other students and fans.

If I could retake one class, I would retake SOC 275: Criminology. I really loved the content in this class, and I think I would want to retake it to relearn some of the content and apply it more to my psychology major. I would also retake AFRO 221: History of the Prison. This class really developed my interest in the prison system, as well as the history and development of the systems our justice system uses today

My favorite spot to study on campus is the IKE library or the comfort of my room.

A skillset I have developed through my time here at UIUC that will help me in the future is the importance of making connections and networking and also using my time wisely. I never really cared about the importance of networking and making connections until recently when reaching out and looking for an internship, but luckily I had a LinkedIn profile created due to taking public speaking, which allowed for me to get my internship through. If it wasn’t for UIUC allowing for their students to know that it’s a priority to have these connections as you never know when you will need them.

Football and basketball games.

One piece of advice I’d give to my freshman self will be get out of that room and go out and explore campus. Try new foods, make connections, and do things that I wouldn’t normally do at home. College is meant to learn more about yourself and develop, not criticize yourself on small mistakes.

One stereotype about college that I found to be false was college being a waste of money and not worth it. I ultimately feel as though college is what you get what you put in. If you’re only giving half into college, how do you expect to see the opportunity come if you never went after them.

My favorite activity on campus is rewarding myself with a sweet treat after completing an exam or homework assignments.

A class I would retake if I could would be Criminology or Forensic Science. This is only because when I say taking these classes, I was the most interested, I’m talking never wanting to miss a class because I was afraid I may miss something that will be so good I’ll regret it. These classes also furthered my interest in wanting to become a criminal defense attorney

The downstairs area of the psychology building.

The ability to manage my time to achieve a balance. I am able to get everything done with a strong sense of timeliness and quality because of my ability to specifically dedicate time in my day through keeping a calendar. This allows me to allocate time for fun stuff and relaxation, as well as avoid forgetfulness.

The overabundance of resources and guidance available for students.

Comparison is the thief of joy.

True- You are on your own. No one is going to remind you to get work done, make friends, apply to jobs, and be successful. It is all about independence.

Eat at Mia Za’s.

PHIL 436. I have a deep admiration and respect for Dr. Helga Varden, as she is the only female philosophy professor I have had. The class connects ancient schools of thought to modern issues and beliefs on politics and ethics.

My favorite spot to study is at the CIF, specifically the tables right outside the classrooms. The area is very open, and during the daytime, there is nice natural light!

One of my favorite activities to do on campus is grabbing Cocomero with friends. The second floor is nice and cozy, and it’s always great to take a break from studying and getting froyo!

One of the biggest skills I have developed during my time at UIUC is effective time management. As a double major graduating a year early, I had to learn how to manage my time very fast as I was managing classes, part-time jobs, and RSOs. I believe that it has been one of the most significant and important skills I have developed because law schools require a lot of studying and managing your time well!

One piece of advice I would give to my freshman self would be to tell myself to take more breaks. Oftentimes, I never had time for myself, and it caused me to burn out faster and not be motivated to do my work. It’s very easy to get caught up in homework assignments and studying, and not taking a minute, but taking some time to do something you love and enjoy is very important.