How Law School Changes You

Law can be both an exhilarating and difficult career choice. Prospective JDs should carefully consider all aspects of their experience as they move toward becoming lawyers, as well as being realistic about their chances.

Prioritize self-care and cultivate effective stress-management techniques in order to maximize performance and stay healthy long term. Doing this can improve both performance and health over time.

1. You learn to think like a lawyer.

Law school requires perseverance and an organized plan. Law school is a marathon not a sprint; therefore it’s vitally important that you prioritize taking care of yourself by managing stress levels and scheduling healthy activities into your schedule. Success lies within this realm!

Instead of writing essays, you will write briefs and summaries. You will gain experience identifying legal issues, conducting legal research, and analyzing current legislation – skills which will serve you well both on exams and in practice.

Your studies will require you to break down and explain complex ideas to others, developing your analytical abilities while honing your writing abilities. Doing this will sharpen your analytical abilities while helping you become a more accomplished writer.

2. You learn how to communicate effectively.

Law school can be challenging and intimidating, so it’s crucial that you learn how to communicate effectively with your peers. Doing this will enable you to express yourself effectively both during class discussions and group projects, as well as during networking opportunities or when networking with potential employers or mentors.

Writing clearly and succinctly will also be essential. Story-telling skills are crucial in legal writing, as is being able to persuade others with your arguments.

Your classes may also present differing opinions and perspectives, and it’s wise to try not to let disagreements erode relationships or consume too much time and energy. Remember: it is impossible to please all parties involved, so focus on the people and things which matter to you; your mental and physical health will thank you.

3. You learn to manage your time.

As in college, law school may not offer you as many handholds to ensure you complete assigned reading or outline for final exams on time. Instead, it will be up to you alone to manage your own schedule, which means it is critical that you know how to balance social events with academic work that needs to be completed.

As part of your academic goals and to avoid distractions, establishing routines will also be useful in keeping on track with them and staying focused. Establishing habits such as getting to class on time and staying focused will help reduce stress associated with law school. While you cannot please everyone at once, prioritizing yourself instead and not getting bogged down in drama.

4. You learn to prioritize.

Law school can be an enormous commitment, taking time and energy away from other aspects of your life. Therefore, it’s essential that you learn how to prioritize tasks and focus on one thing at a time.

Assuming you must study as much or more than your peers is easy. But everyone has different learning styles and needs, so finding what works for you should be your top priority.

Building a support network to assist with staying on track can also make all the difference in your success. This may include joining a study group or group for students experiencing mental health challenges. Knowing who to turn to for advice and encouragement could make all the difference!

5. You learn to live frugally.

As much fun as law school can be, its costs can add up quickly. To minimize student loan debt and remain manageable after graduation, living frugally is key.

This means eating in, cutting back on cigarettes or alcohol binges, and saving as much money as possible. While this may be challenging for those accustomed to college campus life, taking measures to cut back and save as much will pay dividends later when bills come rolling in.

Making sacrifices now will ensure your law degree will be worth its investment. Living with roommates or giving up SoulCycle membership are just two options for making life easier during law school.