Steps Junior High Students Can Take to Aspire to Become Lawyers
Becoming a lawyer is a challenging but rewarding career path. As a junior in high school, there are several actions you can take to prepare for this journey. This article outlines key steps and recommendations to guide you in the right direction.
Building a Strong Foundation
The road to becoming a lawyer starts with a solid educational foundation. One highly recommended read is I Hear You by M. Sorenson. This book will help you develop strong interpersonal skills, which are essential for a successful legal career. Engaging with people effectively is crucial, especially when representing clients or negotiating on their behalf.
Choosing the Right Courses and Extracurricular Activities
While pursuing traditional academic subjects is important, it's equally crucial to take electives that can enhance your critical thinking and communication skills. Consider taking debate classes as they are highly beneficial for aspiring lawyers. If you are inspired by the idea of being a trial attorney, drama classes can be particularly helpful.
Staying on top of your reading assignments and completing homework on time is paramount. Developing strong study habits now will serve you well throughout your academic journey and beyond. It's also advisable to read widely in various subjects to improve your comprehension and language skills.
Selecting the Right Undergraduate Studies
Many students mistakenly opt for political science or courses heavy with the word “law” as part of their undergraduate studies. However, law schools typically seek applicants who have demonstrated excellence in fields demanding and developing critical thinking and analytical skills. Subjects like philosophy, mathematics, science, and engineering could be more beneficial in this context.
Preparing thoroughly for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is also critical. Consider investing in a prep course to enhance your performance on this important exam. With hundreds of highly qualified candidates competing for limited spots in top law schools, standing out is crucial.
Practical Experience and Networking
Getting involved in extracurricular activities can significantly boost your resume. If your high school offers mock trial, speech, or forensics teams, these are excellent options. Additionally, taking Latin, statistics, and civics can be very helpful. Four years of advanced English courses are highly recommended as well.
To gain practical experience, watch local court trials and consider interning in a law office. Be prepared to start unpaid to prove yourself and gain valuable insights. If you perform well, such internships might eventually lead to paid opportunities and valuable references for your law school application.
Meeting with Law School Faculty Members
Your university likely has a department of law faculty. Make arrangements to meet with them. Bring an abundance of information about your background and academic history. These discussions can strengthen your resolve to pursue your legal aspirations and provide valuable guidance tailored to your unique situation.
Conclusion
Becoming a lawyer is a marathon, not a sprint. By following these steps and making the most of your time in high school and early college years, you can set a solid foundation for your legal career. Always remain dedicated, work hard, and never stop learning. Best of luck on your journey!