From Applications to Acceptances: Choosing the Best Law School for You

The best way to truly get a feel for a law school is to visit it in person. While websites and brochures provide helpful information, they can't give you the full picture of life at a particular school. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit:

a. Meet with Admissions
The admissions office is your first point of contact with the law school, and it’s worth taking the time to meet with them during your visit. Ask questions about the school’s mission, values, and the types of students they look for. This meeting is a great opportunity to get a sense of whether the school’s culture aligns with your goals.

b. Take A Tour & Attend A Class
Sitting in on a class or taking a campus tour are great ways to get a feel for the academic and community environment at a school. Attending a class gives you an insider’s perspective on the teaching style of the professors, the classroom dynamics, and how actively students engage with both the material and faculty. A campus tour can also help you get a sense of the facilities, culture, and overall atmosphere. Together, these experiences can help you determine whether the environment aligns with your learning style and personal preferences.

c. Speak with Current Students
Current students can provide invaluable insights into what it’s really like to attend that law school. Ask about their experiences with professors, workload, and student life. They can give you a realistic idea of what to expect and whether the school is a good fit for you.

Not all law schools offer the same programs or specializations. It’s important to choose a school that offers programs tailored to your specific interests or career goals.

a. Concentrations
Many law schools offer concentrations or specializations in areas such as criminal law, corporate law, environmental law, or intellectual property. Consider what type of law you want to practice and whether the school offers a concentration or courses in that area. A program that aligns with your interests can provide a clear path to your desired career.

b. Experiential Learning Opportunities
The best way to learn the practice of law is through hands-on experience. Look for schools that offer experiential learning opportunities like clinics, externships, trial teams, moot court, or law review. These programs allow you to practice what you’ve learned in real-world settings, which will make you more competitive in the job market after graduation.

c. Special Programs
Some law schools offer unique programs that can add significant value to your education. For example, the Pro Bono Scholars Program allows students to complete a year of service before graduating, while the New York City Program in Business and Law, trial team, or study abroad opportunities can help broaden your perspectives and open doors in various legal sectors.

Law school can be tough, both academically and personally. It’s crucial to consider the student support systems a school has in place to help you succeed.

a. Academic Resources
These are the resources designed to help you excel in your coursework. Look for schools that offer strong academic support, such as writing workshops, study groups, or tutoring. Having access to academic resources can help you stay on track during your studies.

b. Extracurricular Activities
While academics are important, your time in law school will also be shaped by your extracurricular activities and social life. Check out the student groups, organizations, and social events offered by the school. Whether you're interested in joining a student-run legal journal, an affinity group, or a recreational sports league, the school’s student life can be a big part of your overall experience.

c. Career Services
One of the main reasons you go to law school is to build a successful career in law. Ensure that the school has a strong career services department to help you with internships, clerkships, job placement, resume building, and networking. A robust career services program can help set you up for success after graduation.

The culture at a law school can significantly affect your experience there. It’s essential to assess whether the community and environment at the school will support your personal and academic growth.

a. Are Faculty/Staff Accessible?
Strong relationships with professors and staff can make a big difference in your law school experience. Look for schools where faculty and staff are accessible, approachable, and genuinely interested in helping students. This accessibility can lead to valuable mentoring and a more enriching learning experience.

b.  Do Students Support Each Other?
A supportive student body can make your time in law school more enjoyable and productive. During your visit, try to gauge whether students seem to collaborate or compete with each other. Some law schools have a more cutthroat atmosphere, while others foster a more collaborative, community-focused environment. Make sure the culture of the school aligns with your personal preferences.

c. Alumni Support
The strength of a law school’s alumni network can have a significant impact on your future career. A school with an active and engaged alumni network can help you connect with legal professionals who can mentor you, offer job leads, or provide career advice. Look for schools where alumni are eager to support recent graduates.

Cost is an undeniable factor, and it’s essential to think carefully about the long-term value of your education. Tuition can vary significantly from one school to another, so it's important to consider whether the investment makes sense in light of the opportunities and resources the school offers. In addition to tuition, be sure to factor in expenses like books, housing, and daily living costs. Most importantly, consider how your choice might affect your financial future. Will the school support your goals of securing meaningful, well-paying employment after graduation? Reviewing employment statistics and average starting salaries for graduates can help you evaluate how well the school prepares students for successful careers.

Choosing the right law school is a personal decision, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. By visiting campuses, exploring academic offerings, considering student support resources, understanding the school’s culture, and weighing both the cost and long-term value of your education, you can make a more informed choice that aligns with your goals and values. By approaching the process thoughtfully, you’ll position yourself for success in law school and beyond.

• UB Law Admissions
• UB Law Concentrations
• Experiential Learning at UB Law
• Student Organizations
• Career Services