Every year millions of college graduates look to the future. They are posed with the decision of choosing a career path. Many completed degrees in lucrative majors such as biology, technology, and law.
Sure these professions might pay well but are they right for you?
Only you know if life in a biology-centered position will make you happy. Will technology excite you enough to take up 40 or 50 hours of your time each week? Being a lawyer has many advantages, but how to know if law school is right for you takes soul searching.
Follow along as we discuss whether committing to law school is worth it?
How to Know If Law School Is Right for You
The enrollment of law school students fluctuates. In the fall of 2018, there were 111,561 people enrolled in a Juris Doctor (J.D.) program, according to the American Bar Association.
The enrollment number shows an increase from 2017. But just because other people are flocking to law school doesn’t mean you should too.
Law school is a big commitment just like any higher education program. Therefore it’s essential to determine your reasons for attendance before applying.
Below are some things to consider before becoming a law school student.
1. Do You Want To Become a Lawyer?
While this should be at the top of anyone’s list, it’s crucial to ask yourself. People who excel at being attorneys are good debaters who consider other points of view during an argument.
Lawyers work with people to fight for justice whether it’s through a not guilty verdict or winning a monetary settlement.
Clients seek out lawyers with patience and experience who take the time to answer their legal questions.
If you’re not detail-oriented, aren’t fluent in the law, and don’t enjoy working with others, becoming a lawyer might be a wrong fit.
2. Are Your Grades Good Enough?
If you answered the first question with a strong yes, then it’s time to review other issues. Do you have the grades to get into law school?
Law school is very competitive and they seek out exceptional students.
According to U.S. News, The 12 best-rated law schools admit students with a 3.9 G.P.A. on the four-point scale. The strict admission process is due to the popularity of these law schools. So prepare to make yourself stand out amongst thousands of highly qualified applicants.
3. Did You Take the LSAT?
Now that you’ve determined your grades are on point look at your Law School Admission Test or LSAT scores. Students admitted into the 12 best-rated law schools scored 170 or higher, according to U.S. News. Since 180 is the best you can do, you’ll need to practice and score high too.
4. Can You Afford Law School?
Here comes the part that no one likes to review. Can you afford to attend law school? According to Earnest.com, law school tuition ranges from $35,000 to $67,000 per year.
But the cost increases after factoring in books, supplies, resident vs. non-resident, and so forth. The total cost of attendance ranges from $57,000 to $88,000.
To cushion the blow of high tuition look for scholarships, grants, and loans before applying to a school. Review the cost of living in a specific city because New York City is more expensive than Minneapolis.
5. Have You Shadowed a Lawyer?
Finally, it’s vital to spend time in a law office before making this life-altering decision. Contact a law firm that specializes in the area you wish to pursue. Ask if you can shadow an attorney for a day or a week.
The more exposure you receive, the better equipped you’ll be to make your choice.
Get to Work
Answering the question of how to know if law school is right for you isn’t easy. But if you answer all the questions provided above, you’ll learn if it’s for you.
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