Hello Illini…

 

We are now 2 DAYS away from the Illinois Grad, Law and Professional School Fair!!!

If you have not already done so – REGISTER NOW! Registering in advance allows you to express your interest to attending law schools and provides them the opportunity to reach out to you in advance with special invitations and information!

Law Fairs provide a unique opportunity for students to interact with a variety of law schools in one concise setting.  There are many virtual opportunities this fall – but  Illinois Law Fair provides unique one – on- one opportunities for Illinois students & alumni.  To help you prepare, below are a list of tips, strategies, and goals for Thursday!

Goals:

Individuals may attend the fair for any number of reasons, be sure to keep in mind what you would like to accomplish. This will help you formulate questions and make the most out of your day! Below are a few goals you might have…

• • Discover more about specific law schools to help you decide where you would like to apply.
  • Ask for perspectives on your candidacy and learn more about what specific law schools are looking for in prospective students.
  • Learn more about the general application process and hear perspectives from admissions deans.
  • Make a connection with law schools you would like to attend, demonstrate your interest.
  • Learn more about what you can do with a legal education.
  • Explore the many diverse law schools and learn more about their unique attributes.
  • Discover new schools and programs that you did not know about!

Strategize – Make A Plan:

• • Determine when you will be able to attend the fair.
  • Do your homework and review general information about schools.
  • Identify your “must visit” schools, plan a questions or two for each.
  • Research school availability and make a personal schedule based on your availability and the schools – remember you can be in multiple chat rooms at the same time!

Note: The generally designated law hours are from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm, however, each law school has set their own unique hours. Some will be hosting longer hours, starting earlier, or staying later.

• • Set-aside additional time to visit schools you haven’t considered before!

TIP: Search for law schools on the CareerEco site in advance by utilizing the search filters – we recommend putting “law” in the Areas of Study field.  You can also search by location and school name!

TIP: Pay close attention to the institution you are visiting as some schools may have multiple departments participating.  For example – The University of Illinois College of Law will have a chat room, as will the University of Illinois College of Medicine.

TIP:  Let law schools know you are interested in advance by checking the “interest” box on the school profile page.

Hello Illini!  3 days to go and counting…

The Law Fair is a great opportunity to ask informative questions about schools you are interested in, discover new schools to consider, demonstrate your interest, and  make a great first impression on admissions representatives. Here are some potential questions you might find helpful to ask…

• • What are some qualities or characteristics you are looking for in law school applicants?

• • What kinds of experiential learning opportunities do you offer students?

• • What might my path look like at your school if I am interested in (blank) law?

• • What kind of scholarships are available to students?

• • How are your students prepared for the bar exam?

• • Why did you decide to work at the school? (or if you know the admissions rep attended that law school, you may ask why they attended that school)

• • Is there a way to get in touch with current students for informational interviews?

• • How accessible are faculty?

• • What is your school’s policy for evaluating multiple LSAT scores?

For more potential questions, see LSAC’s list of suggested questions for law fair attendees.

TIP: Take notes!  If you are applying this cycle take notes to remember the information you learn, consider asking the same question(s) in each chat room and compare answers later.

TIP: Make sure you note which representative(s) you talked to for future reference and follow-up!

TIP: Make time to review profile pages and chat with 1 or 2 schools you haven’t considered before – you may be surprised what you learn!

To Register!

Go to https://go.illinois.edu/2020GLPFair

Hello ILLINI!  We are 5 days away from the annual Illinois Law Fair!

This year’s virtual Fair will look a bit different from prior years, but will still offer the same unique opportunity to interact with law admissions representatitives from across the country!  Below are a few logistical steps and details to assist in your Law Fair prep!

Pre-Fair Preparation

• • Register Now!  Reigstration is online and completely free.  Be sure to register early to not miss out on any pre-fair communications.
  • Attend one of the Pre-Fair Workshops on Monday, October 12 (12:00 pm or 4:30 pm)!
  • Explore law schools in advance and let schools know you are interested in advance! Details below…

Exploring Schools & Expressing Interest

• • Each law school has a profile page which provides important details about the school and availablity during the upcoming Fair.  Be sure you have reviewed details about each of your schools as chat room times and topics may vary slightly by school.
  • TIP: Search for schools on the CareerEco site in advance by listing “JD” in the degree search field, and “law” under area of study.  You can also search by location and school name!
  • TIP: Be sure to filter and pay close attention to the institution you are visiting as some schools may have multiple departments participating.  For example – The University of Illinois College of Law will be present, as will the University of Illinois College of Medicine.
  • TIP:  Let law schools know you are interested in advance by checking the “interest” box on the school profile page.  Schools may wish to reach out to you in advance about special opportunities or scheduling private chats.

Additional Logistics

• • Format & Instructions: Schools may host presentations, chat rooms, and individual chat sessions during the fair.  Learn more about navigating the CareerEco platform through the online tutorials.
  • Dress Code:  Chat rooms may have video enabled for either the chat room or for individual chat sessions.   We encourage business casual dress for the fair – no PJs!
  • Chat Room Schedule:  Be sure to review the chat room schedule in advance and plan your day!

We are 1 week away from the 2020 Illinois Law Fair!

Not sure which law school to apply to?  Wondering how to decide between the many options? Not sure what law schools have to offer?

West Coast?  East Coast?  South?  Midwest? Illinois?… 

Don’t miss out on the opportunity for one-on-one interactions and direct perspectives from law schools! This year’s Graduate, Law, and Professional School Fair will host diverse law schools from across the country.   There is no better opportunity for University of Illinois students and alumni to learn more about individual schools and to demonstrate your interest in specific law programs!

Visit the CareerEco event page and register today! Be sure to take a look at the law school profiles to learn more about schools in advance!

Check out our current list of attending law schools!

• • Albany Law School
  • American University Washington College of Law
  • Ave Maria School of Law
  • Baylor Law
  • Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law
  • Boston College Law School
  • Boston University School of Law
  • Brooklyn Law School
  • Capital University Law School
  • Case Western Reserve University School of Law
  • Chapman University Fowler School of Law
  • Charleston School of Law
  • Chicago-Kent College of Law
  • Creighton University School of Law
  • CUNY School of Law
  • DePaul University College of Law
  • Drake Law School
  • Drexel University School of Law
  • Duke Law School
  • Elon University School of Law
  • Emory University School of Law
  • Fordham University School of Law
  • Indiana University Maurer School of Law
  • Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law
  • Lewis & Clark Law School
  • Loyola University Chicago School of Law
  • Loyola University New Orleans College of Law
  • Marquette University Law School
  • Michigan State University College of Law
  • Northern Kentucky University (NKU) Chase College of Law
  • Northeastern University School of Law
  • Northern Illinois University College of Law
  • Northwestern Pritzker School of Law
  • Notre Dame Law School
  • Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
  • Penn State Law
  • Pepperdine Caruso School of Law
  • Seattle University School of Law
  • Seton Hall Law
  • St. John’s University School of Law
  • St. Thomas University School of Law
  • Stetson University College of Law
  • Tulane University Law School
  • UC Irvine (UCI) School of Law
  • UCLA School of Law
  • UIC John Marshall Law School
  • University of Akron School of Law
  • University of Alabama School of Law
  • University of Chicago Law School
  • University of Glasgow
  • University of Illinois College of Law
  • University of Iowa College of Law
  • University of Kansas School of Law
  • University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law
  • University of Miami School of Law
  • University of Minnesota Law School
  • University of Missouri School of Law
  • University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law
  • University of San Diego (USD) School of Law
  • University of San Francisco School of Law
  • University of St. Thomas School of Law-Minneapolis
  • University of Texas School of Law
  • University of Toledo College of Law
  • University of Washington School of Law
  • University of Wisconsin Law School
  • Wayne State University Law School

Let’s talk about taking a gap year, or a few…

More and more law schools are highlighting the value and benefits of time off between undergrad and law school by encouraging students to diverge from the traditional path and consider a gap year.  We understand that a gap year, or time off, is not everyone’s journey; however, we wanted to provide helpful information on gap years for those considering it.

 

WHAT IS A GAP YEAR?

A gap year (or gap years) is the time between graduating from undergrad and starting law school. It’s a time for self-exploration, resume building, networking, and most importantly: gaining experience. Most commonly, students will 1 year off, but many take 2+ years off. It’s a personal decision, so there is no right answer about how much time, if any, one should take off before pursuing law school.

WHY TAKE A GAP YEAR?

A gap year is NOT a bad thing. Going to law school right after undergrad is not always the best option for students, so taking the time off to recoup and align one’s goals is always a good idea.

Students have lots of reasons for taking a gap year including:

• • Professional Work Experience
  • Completing Post Graduation Training or Degrees (Masters)
  • Financial Wellness
  • Pursuing Passions
  • Clarify Education & Professional Goals
  • Personal Preparedness & Wellness

There can be certain stigmas about not continuing your education immediately upon graduation from undergrad, but we are here to tell you that is not the case. Many law schools indicate that they even prefer students have at least one year of experience before applying. Taking time off between undergrad and law school does not mean you’re a failure. It does not mean that you didn’t have a clear path. And it certainly does not mean that you cannot still attend law school!

WHAT CAN I DO DURING A GAP YEAR?

Whether that’s accepting a job in a law-related field (such as a paralegal, an aid on the Hill, or a legal assistant) or something completely unrelated – a gap year is whatever you make of it.  Just make sure whatever you choose it is intentional and benefits your goals!

In addition to working, a gap year provides an excellent opportunity for you to expand your network. You’ll meet many people and have the chance to connect with various individuals in the field. Networking will also provide you with one’s firsthand experience and an inside look on the legal market. It can help solidify your decision to pursue a career in law, or can leave you with important information to consider before applying. Setting up these connections early is beneficial, and will benefit you in a few years when you’re competing in the legal job market!

GAP YEAR BENEFITS

• • Networking…
  • Time (to study for your LSAT, focus on your applications)…
  • An opportunity to boost your GPA with senior year grades…
  • Build a relationship with an employer for a potential letter of recommendation…
  • Improve your financial situation…
  • Do something that you might not have been able to do had you gone straight to law school, or something that you might not be able to do after graduating law school…

 

Ultimately, whether you take a gap year or go straight through to law school, it is a personal decision. Consider what path is best for YOU and what makes sense for YOU. As always, feel free to make an appointment with Pre-Law Advising Services to discuss the right choice and path for you!

 

Mark your calendars for the upcoming University of Illinois Graduate, Law, and Professional School Fair on October 15^th. This year’s fair will be a combined event, featuring both the annual Law School Fair and annual Graduate and Professional School Fair hosted by The Career Center.  Be sure to attend during the specially designated Law School Fair hours from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm.

Registration is open now and completely FREE for students, alumni, and the public- all are welcome! The event will be virtual, hosted through the CareerEco platform. Whether you are considering law school next year, following a gap year, or in the future – the Fair is a fantastic opportunity for juniors, seniors, and alumni to meet admissions representatives and to learn more about law schools and graduate programs! Students and alumni are encouraged to register by October 8th to receive invitation to special pre-fair programs and panels.  

How to Connect During COVID?

Connecting with law schools during the COVID-19 pandemic presents unique challenges. Traditional in-person visits, panels, and fairs are largely unavailable this year. Thankfully, law schools and organizations around the country have adapted to help create unique opportunities for students to connect to schools and to gain valuable insights about the application process.

Be Proactive!

• • Check-out law school websites for opportunities to virtually visit the school, attend programming, and to sit-in on virtual classes.
  • Attend events for prospective students and the public to get a feel of the school and learn more about their community.
  • Follow schools on social media.
  • Take advantage of opportunities to connect with current students, alumni, or faculty members.
  • ASK!  Reach out to the admissions office and ask how you can connect!

Check out additional advice on connecting during COVID from our recent Guest Blogger – Rebecca Ray, Assistant Dean for Admissions and Financial Aid at the University of Illinois College of Law.

LSAC Forums!

LSAC will be hosting virtual forums through the fall semester. In addition to the opportunity to visit with individual schools, there will be series of live and on-demand programd to assist students during the application process. Be strategic – consider attending an LSAC Forum to learn about a wide variety of schools; plan to attend the Illinois Fair for more one-on-one interactions!

LSAC Forums will be hosted on the following dates:

• • • September 26, 2020
    • October 13, 2020
    • November 4, 2020
    • December 12, 2020

For more information and to register visit: https://www.lsac.org/lawschoolforums

Additional Resources

For more information about the virtual UIUC Graduate, Law, and Professional School Fair, please visit the Pre-Law Advising website.

To make an appointment with Pre-Law Advising: https://prelaw.illinois.edu/appointments

To learn more about our office or connect with us online, please visit our online resources:

• • Website: https://prelaw.illinois.edu/
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/38102688195
  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UIUCPreLaw

Stay Tuned!  The annual MAPLA Caravan (law fair) will take place via Handshake in late October.  Stay tuned for details in the upcoming weeks.

 

 

Due to the recent change of the October and November LSAT administration to the LSAT-Flex format, we wanted to let you know of a resource available through the Pre-Law Advising Services Office!

The LSAT-Flex exam requires students to take the exam in a quiet, private room with reliable internet access. For students on campus who may be having difficulty in identifying an appropriate space, Pre-Law Advising has arranged for test spaces available on a first come, first served basis.

How it works:  Students can request to reserve a private room to take the LSAT-Flex exam. To help maximize the use of space, reservations are available in three-hour time-blocks, with the expectation that students will have 30 minutes before and after their exam to set up, get comfortable, and sanitize the room after the exam. Students will receive a more detailed email prior to their exam date outlining the protocol and expectations.  Reservation blocks are available at the following times:  7am – 10am,  10am – 1pm,  1pm – 4pm,  4pm – 7pm, 7pm – 10pm.  Be mindful when signing up to ensure the reservation overlaps your LSAT-Flex testing time. (i.e., if your exam is at 7:30 am, you would reserve the 7am-10am time-block).

• • If none of the reservations work with your LSAT-Flex time, please indicate that in the sign-up form. We will do our best to accommodate but cannot guarantee there will be an available private room outside of the pre-determined time-blocks.
  • Per campus policy, you will be required to have a current negative COVID-Test to enter the building.
  • We have limited space, all reservations are on a first come, first served basis.

How to Sign Up: To sign up for a space for the October LSAT-Flex, please register at the following link by SEPTEMBER 30: https://surveys.illinois.edu/sec/466546359

For more information and guidance on where to take the LSAT-Flex, check out our blogpost.  If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to ccaas-prelaw@illinois.edu.

Stay Tuned! Room requests for the November LSAT-Flex will open in October.

Tips and suggestions to help you through the 2020-2021 application cycle… 

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THE LAW SCHOOL’S PERSPECTIVE

• • Schools will set institutional goals each year for their entering class. These goals may include maintaining or advancing median LSAT/GPAs, class diversity, class size, balancing out last year’s incoming class, or achieving representation from a large variety of undergraduate institutions and degrees. These objectives are meant to support the institution’s overall goals and to also create a dynamic and diverse class that will enhance the learning experience for all students.
  • Every application cycle is different based on the school’s goals,  expectations, and the applicant pool.

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT ME?  What Should I know?

• • Ultimately a school’s individual goals are unknown outside of the institution. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to enhance your application by being well informed and following some of the best practices we have outlined below!

• • Rolling Admissions:  Law schools have rolling admissions – meaning they begin making decisions from the start of the admissions cycle. The later you apply the fewer seats remain – apply early and maximize your potential to be extended an offer!
    

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The Application:

• • Your law school application is comprised of many components. It can be a long, arduous process and can be difficult to balance with a full course load or full-time job. Therefore, it is important to strategize and plan your application by setting a timeline, sticking to it, and putting in the necessary effort to get it done and submitted!  Being organized and efficient is one of the best things to do to support your application success!

• • Generally, each of your applications will include seven (7) primary components: resume, personal statement, LSAT, GPA, letters of recommendation, transcript(s), and optional addendums.  Registration with the LSAC Credential Assembly Service is required to apply to law school.  CAS serves as a central administration to assist you for each individual application. Please note that each law school will have their own individual application you will need to complete – good news, these are available through CAS!

• • TIP! Remember each law school may have unique requirements, review websites in advance!

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RESUME

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• • A one-page, well-formatted document summarizing your education history, accomplishments, work experiences, leadership activities, and special skills and interests. TIP! Be sure to list in reverse chronological order…
  • Your resume should be formatted into distinct sections. This could include: Header, Education, Experience, Leadership & Volunteer Activities, and Skills and Interest.  Sections should be unique to your resume and support your individual experiences and credentials.
  • A well-crafted, well-organized resume leads to effectiveness and readability.
  • TIP! Look at the law school’s websites for resume requirements, but also to get a feel for what they are looking for (buzz words, traits, etc. you can incorporate into your resume).

Personal Statement

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• • An opportunity for you to highlight your candidacy to the admissions committee and to tell them something they cannot find in other sections of your application.
  • What do you want the admissions committee to remember about you? Show the admissions committee why you want to go to law school, why the law, and how your life experiences have led you to pursuing a career in the law.
  • TIP! Plan sufficient time to write your personal statement because it will take multiple drafts and many revisions before perfecting your final draft!

Letters of Recommendation

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• • 2-4 letters from professors or supervisors, that support your law school application.
  • Reach out now! You want to determine who will be writing your letters as soon as possible and reach out as soon as you can. Professors will need ample amount of time to write a good letter.
  • Law schools want to see letters of recommendation that speak to you, personally, as a candidate, highlighting your academic capabilities and aptitude.
  • Consider setting a deadline of at least one (1) week before you need them. Recommenders must submit the letters to LSAC -CAS
  • TIP! Some schools will have specific criteria or caps on the total number of letters they will review.  Be sure to check in advance.

Addendums/Supplemental Essays

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• • Law school specific, brief essays or statements that provide an opportunity for you to clarify and expound upon aspects of your application. Some common types of application addendums are:
    • • Diversity Statement –  An opportunity to highlight your diversity as a candidate.
      • GPA/LSAT/Academic Explanation – An opportunity for you to provide additional information regarding “low” scores or grades.  For example, extenuating circumstances or disruptions in your schooling that create credentials that you feel do not fully reflect your ablities. Think objectively.
      • Character & Fitness – An opportunity to provide additional information regarding citations, arrests, convictions, etc. Note! Read the language carefully – if you have questions clarify with the admissions office prior to applying.

• • TIP! Be sure to check the law school website to clarify their guidelines on addendums.  Some addendums may be optional, others may be required!

GPA – Transcripts

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• • You will need to provide transcripts for all programs attended – plan ahead!
  • Keep medians in mind. Medians aren’t everything, but they are an excellent guide that will certainly help give you an idea of what the law school is looking for in a candidate.
  • The “Law School” GPA. In order to provide schools with a uniform basis to compare candidate credentials,  LSAC will configure a “new” GPA for each candidate.  This conversion will take into account a number of factors, including norming all GPAs to a 4.0 scale.  Be sure to review the LSAC Transcript Summarization page for details.   Schools will see both your LSAC GPA and GPA provided on your transcripts – in some instances they will be the same.
  • Gap Year? Would your academic abilities and skills benefit from an additional year to develop prior to law school and application to law school?  Taking a gap year can enhance your application and help prepare you for law school – don’t be afraid to consider this option

The LSAT

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• • Similar to median GPAs, a school’s median LSAT score is an excellent guide that will provide helpful insight into what the law school is looking for in a candidate and their goals for your admission cycle.
  • The LSAT is offered multiple times per year.  You will need an LSAT score prior to applying to law school.
  • The LSAT Writing portion is completed independently but is required to receive a score.  You do  not need to complete a new Writing portion for every exam and there is no additional fee.
  • Upcoming Dates and Deadlines:

• • GRE:  Some law schools will accept the GRE as an alternative to an LSAT score, however, the LSAT remains the primary admissions test.  There are also limitations on how many GRE applicants may be accepted each year.  TIP: If you are applying without an LSAT score, be sure to follow-up with your law school to confirm there are not unique steps given you are a GRE candidate and that they received your GRE and CAS Report from LSAC!  You will still need to register with CAS.

Credential Assembly Service (CAS)

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• • Transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any other documents required for each of your law school applications only need to be sent one time, to LSAC – CAS.
  • All ABA-approved law school applications are available electronically through your CAS, saving you time and effort!
  • All applicants must sign up for CAS separate an apart from LSAC and the LSAT.
  • The CAS fee is $195. Additionally, there is a $45 processing fee per law school application.  You let CAS know which law schools you want to apply to.
  • TIP! It takes approximately 2 weeks to process a transcript in CAS – plan ahead!

Upcoming Programs!

Application Excellence: A Guide to Perfecting Your Law School Application

This workshop will provide specific guidance on how to optimize elements of the application, including resumes, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and addendums. This program will look at best practices, pitfalls to avoid, and suggestions for achieving an excellent quality submission.

This program is highly recommended for students and alumni applying during the 2020-2021 academic year!

This program will be offered on the following dates:

• • • September 9, 2020
    • September 29, 2020
    • October 29, 2020
    • November 17, 2020

The registration deadline is by Noon (CST) the day prior to the program. 

Question?

To make an appointment with Pre-Law Advising, please sign up at: https://go.oncehub.com/PreLawAdvisingatIllinois

For general questions and resources, connect with Pre-Law Advising:

 

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We hope that the semester is off to a great start and that you are staying healthy!  The Pre-Law Advising Services (PLAS) office will be operating on a virtual basis this semester, but we look forward to hosting online programming and appointments to connect with you throughout the semester.  Our services are available to all University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign students and alumni.

Below please find a quick guide for working with our office and a snapshot of important dates and events for September. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Connecting with PLAS

In addition to our Blog, there are many ways to connect with the PLAS Office and we encourage you to check these resources regularly throughout the week for updates and new information.

• • Pre-Law Advising Website & Handbook
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Compass Page
  • Pre-Law Email Listserv:  To join the pre-law email listserv go to lists.illinois.edu, search for “prelaw”, and add yourself with your illinois.edu email address.

Advising Appointments

Individual advising appointments remain available throughout the semester on a virtual basis (zoom or phone). To help ensure that appointments are most productive in addressing your individual question and needs, students are asked to attend a Pre-Law 101 session prior to scheduling an individual advising appointment.  There are two types of appointments available for students: (1) Pre-Law Advising Appointments, and (2) Document Review (Personal Statements, Resumes, and Essays).

Please visit our online Appointments page for more details and a link to our online scheduling system.

Upcoming Programming

Programming for the Fall 2020 semester is already underway! Be sure to review the online PLAS Calendar for the most current information on programming and events.

• • Fall 2020/Spring 2021 Applicants! Be sure to check-out our upcoming Application Excellence: A Guide to Perfecting Your Application program. There will be four sessions throughout the semester providing detailed recommendations and strategies for your personal statement, resumes, letters or recommendation, and addendums/supplemental essays.  Anyone applying to law school during the 2020-2021 academic year are encouraged to attend.
    • • Next Session:  Wednesday, September 9 at 4:00 pm. Register by Tuesday, September 8 at Noon.

September Snapshot:

Below please see a list of important dates, upcoming events, and reminders for September 2020…

• • Thursday, September 3: PLAS Workshop – Application Roadmap: Navigating Your Fall 2020 Applications

• • Wednesday, September 9: PLAS Workshop – Application Excellence: A Guide to Perfecting Your Law School Application.

• • Sunday, September 13 – LSAT Deadline! Assistance Request Deadline for October LSAT

• • Tuesday, September 15: PLAS Workshop – Pre-Law 101

• • Thursday, September 17: Constitution Day 2020 Celebration – “The Presidency”, Keynote Speaker Professor Saikrishna Prakash, University of Virginia School of Law. Hosted by University of Illinois College of Law

• • Wednesday, September 23 – LSAT Deadline! Registration Deadline for November LSAT

• • Wednesday, September 23: LSAC Digital Forum Registration Deadline (Free)

• • Friday, September 25 – LSAT Deadline! Test Date Change Request for October exam – No Charge

• • Wednesday, September 26: LSAC Digital Forum

• • Tuesday, September 29: PLAS Workshop – Application Excellence: A Guide to Perfecting Your Law School Application

 Be sure to check the Pre-Law Advising Calendar for upcoming programs and events!