Pre-Law Preparation
Skills, Values, Knowledge, and Experience
The American Bar Association does not recommend any one particular major or degree program to prepare for a legal education. Rather, they identify the following core skills, values, knowledge, and experience as providing a strong foundation for legal education:
- Problem solving
- Critical reading
- Writing and editing
- Oral communication and listening
- Research
- Organization and management
- Public service and promotion of justice
- Relationship-building and collaboration
- Background knowledge in history, political science, math, human behavior, social interaction, and an understanding of diversity cultures.
- Exposure to the law
FHSU offers various degree programs, minors, certificates, and courses that will prepare you for success in law school and the legal profession.
“The most valuable classes would have to be any of the research classes or any classes that require you to give a presentation. The practice of law is very research and writing heavy so any extra practice helps. That also goes for classes that require you to present, it helps prepare you for mock trials and speaking in class when you get cold called.” FHSU alumnus
Undergraduate Activities & Experiences
Take advantage of co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities. Co-curricular opportunities, such as internships/apprenticeships, study abroad, senior capstone courses, Model UN, and service-learning opportunities; and extracurricular opportunities, such as student organizations, community service, lectures, speakers, forums, and part-time work can help prepare you for law school, the legal profession, and the application process.
“Get involved in organizations. The more connected you are, the more you will be able to juggle the responsibilities of law school. Plus, it is good to network because you never know who you will see in the courtroom one day!” – FHSU alumnus
Podcasts
ABA (American Bar Association) Law Student Podcast
Law School Toolbox
Above the Law- Thinking Like a Lawyer
Undergraduate Journals
Ramapo College of New Jersey Journal of Law & Society
University of North Texas Emerald Amicus
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