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How to Prepare for Class at Law School

Putting your best foot forward in class at law school
Tags: law school, class, class prep
Apr 2, 2023

Here are some tips for getting ready for law school classes:

  1. Read what you need to before class so you can understand the discussions better (LSD Case Briefs can make this a little easier)
  2. Take notes during class to remember what you are learning and then review notes later.
  3. Be an active participant in class discussions by asking questions and sharing your ideas.
  4. Look over your notes after class and make any corrections you have to
  5. Use tools like outlines and flashcards to help you study.
  6. Plan out your study time and don't put things off until the last minute.
  7. Don't be afraid to ask for help from your teacher, classmates, or tutor if you need it.

As a first-year student, showing up to class can seem daunting. But don't worry, with these tips you can effectively prepare for your law school classes

For many people these steps will seem very simple. However, Law School is a tough experience and sometimes it is easy to forget the little things. And hey, if you think these are simple then just look around, find someone who is struggling, and lend them a hand. Collaboration is the real secret to crushing law school. If nothing else people will remember you fondly.

Complete your readings before class

To fully engage in class discussions, it's crucial to read and comprehend assigned readings before class. This will enable you to follow discussions better, ask informed questions, and contribute to class conversations

Take notes during class

Jot down detailed notes during class on the main points discussed. This will help you remember important information and concepts, and prepare for further study and review.

Participate in class discussions

Active participation in class discussions is an excellent way to reinforce your understanding of the material and engage with your classmates and professor. Be prepared to ask questions, offer your opinions, and engage in constructive dialogue.

Review your notes after class

After class, take some time to review your notes and make any necessary corrections or additions. This will help you retain information better and prepare for future classes and exams.

Use supplements and study aids

Supplements and study aids such as hornbooks, outlines, and flashcards can be beneficial tools in preparing for law school classes. They provide additional explanations and examples of legal concepts and help you review and reinforce your understanding of the material.

Manage your time effectively

Managing your time effectively is essential in law school, where classes can be demanding and time-consuming. Set aside dedicated study time each day and create a study schedule that works for you. Prioritize your assignments, and avoid procrastination.

Seek help when needed

If you find yourself struggling with the material, don't hesitate to seek help from your professor, classmates, or a tutor. Law school can be challenging, and asking for assistance when you need it is crucial.

Preparing for law school classes requires preparation, participation, and effective time management. By completing your readings before class, taking notes, participating in class discussions, reviewing your notes, using supplements and study aids, managing your time effectively, and seeking help when needed, you can maximize your learning and succeed in law school.

If all else fails, try your best and be kind. That will take you further than any check list or article you can find online.

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Windsor MIT '22, Harvard College Advisor

I am the half of LSD that didn't take the LSAT, or go to law school (Sorry about that). But I did go to MIT business school while surrounded by law students and lawyers, so I am somewhat qualified to talk about the intricacies of law school apps and finances.

Windsor (the dog) didn't write this but he WAS a Resident Tutor and career advisor at Harvard College with me, so deserves some credit.

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17:24
i plan to go in public interest, i wont have that kinda money lol
omg same
I also don't feel bad for Fulbrights. They'll be alright
17:24
i'll be lucky to afford a home lol
17:24
omg yess
International status generally being a debuff sucks tho for sure
LegalUsername
17:26
There are waitlist sessions for GULC? I never got one after receiving the SPWL.
LegalUsername
17:27
Or maybe it's because I got it yesterday?
SplitOnMe
17:27
yeah they happened a while ago
theres one for NU coming up
17:29
Georgetown waitlists 4000 people a year, they basically have to divvy the waitlistees up across multiple sessions over time
yeah I'll be logged into the NU one so they don't ding me for missing but no shot I'll actually be able to pay attention bc I'll be working
17:30
Imagine being the admissions staffer(s) who need to monitor Q&A for a 4,000 person zoom
USNWR needs to just bump schools back 20 places if they waitlist more than like 10% of apps
17:32
Penn Purge, the reprise
Everyone who was on the WL at the time got that invite but you might not have gotten it if you applied later
Re: GULC WL session
i didnt get it but i believe i received the wl notif after the email went out which like, fair
17:34
It *is* somewhat tricky to plan waitlists, because there are a whole bunch of subgroups you need there. Not just the stats you need to tune and needs people fill (URM, veteran, regional balance, international, STEM), but buckets like "These are the specific STEM majors we might take if we have a bunch of STEM majors go elsewhere, and we've locked down our GPA median, and we need to shore up our LSAT median, and our aid budget is almost exhausted so we need people that would accept a waitlist A with minimal aid (not the 180s)
17:38
And how much "padding" you need in your waitlist is inversely related to how patient applicants will be for that school (HYS can cover their bases with a small waitlist because most people on the list would drop everything and commit; Georgetown needs a large waitlist because a lot of people on their list will end up with better options)
17:38
But even understanding why schools do this, the result sucks for anyone on the WL
kimchi queen if you see this im sorry but i dont have the talent to paint birds on my nails and i have shaky hands today so i went with skittle nails
KimchiQueen
17:47
@manifestT14acceptances: Haha no need to apologize! Skittles and candy style nail art is super cute!
LegalUsername
17:48
Just praying for the WL gods now :(
trees1234567
17:49
Oh damn penn wtf sorry to everyone that got hit
@KimchiQueen: thank you i do like how they came out i always feel bad fielding suggestions and then doing something else
KimchiQueen
18:07
Suggestions can always be used next time! No need to feel bad :)
any idea if we will hear from usc today?
even if it is an R, I just want to know. I want my cycle over so badly
@jb2028: how many people are part of the hls slack rn?
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