Tips for Law School

As I approach the final weeks of my law school career, I would like to share some helpful tips I wish I knew before starting law school. 

Ask for Help Early

A lot of the topics you learn in law school build off each other, so if you do not understand one thing, you might not understand the next thing. I remember being very confused in my Contracts class because I did not understand the foundational lessons, and it hurt me. I had to cram right before the midterm and final and teach myself much of what I could have asked for clarification on earlier in the semester. If you are confused about something in class, do not be afraid to raise your hand and ask questions. Do not be afraid to speak to your professor during office hours. I worked in education before attending law school and trust me when I say that professors would rather help you before an exam than give you a bad grade. 

Similarly, reach out to your TA. They were in your shoes once, so they understand the struggle. They also might be able to explain a concept differently than your professor, thus allowing you to understand the material better. My TAs also gave me advice about other professors and classes, helping me better choose which classes to take.

Try to Find the Cheapest Textbooks

Law school is very expensive. It’s not just tuition you have to pay, it’s also housing, food, study materials, school supplies, bar preparation programs, and textbooks. Some classes I have considered taking require textbooks that cost over $300. That is so much money for a book that might become outdated in a year. Look for used textbooks on online selling platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and Mercari. Some of your required reading materials may even be available for free at the school library. I saved a few hundred dollars by borrowing my books from the library when I needed them. 

Utilize the Resources Provided by the School

Stetson provides free online access to many study materials, such as digital books and lectures. Additionally, Stetson students can access Barbri lecture videos and practice questions for free. But it’s not just study materials Stetson offers. I have saved a lot of money on gym memberships by exercising at the school’s gym. I have also learned invaluable information from the school’s career office and from speakers brought in by student organizations. Schools exist to provide for students, so take advantage of what is offered. 

Prioritize Your Mental Health

Law school is stressful, and it is easy to beat yourself up when you do not understand something or do poorly when called on in class. Your mental health is more important than your grades, so make sure you nurture it. Take study breaks when you need to. Sleep an extra hour or two if you need it. Engage in your favorite hobbies or watch your favorite movies. There are student organizations on campus that focus on nurturing mental health, and they do a lot of great events. 

Find a Group of People You Trust and Like

Law school is tough, so you need a support system within the school to help you study and cheer you up when you are feeling down. I found a group my first semester, and we helped each other a lot. I am still friends with the same group I studied with and socialized with in my first year, and I know I will remain friends with them for life. 

Make Sure You Really Want to be in Law School

As discussed above, law school is expensive and stressful. If you aren’t sure law school is right for you, don’t be afraid to speak to someone about it, and don’t be afraid to decide that you no longer want to be in law school.