Things You Should Know As An Undergrad (Prepping for Law School Applications)

Thinking about applying to law school? As an undergraduate, you’re in the perfect place to start building a story that makes sense to an admissions officer. Your future application should feel intentional. You want the reader to understand why you’re applying to law school — not wonder, “Why on earth is this person applying?”

Here are the core things every undergrad should keep in mind:

1. You Don’t Need to Major in “Pre-Law”

Law schools don’t prefer one major over another. If you love political science or philosophy, go for it. If you’re into biology, musical theatre, engineering, economics, or art history — that’s fine too. Major in something you genuinely enjoy and can do well in. A high GPA matters much more than the name of your major.

That said, try to gain some exposure to the legal field. This could be:

• Volunteer work

• Internships

• Job shadowing

• Campus organizations related to law

If your academic interests intersect with the law, even better. For example, a musical theatre major who becomes interested in entertainment law could intern at an entertainment law firm. Let your path make sense.

2. Depth > Doing Everything

Don’t be a “jack of all trades, master of none.” Law schools prefer depth, substance, and consistency.

Choose a few meaningful activities and really commit:

• Join an organization and grow into a leadership role

• Volunteer with purpose

• Pursue internships connected to your interests

• Build a story that aligns with your goals

Quality beats quantity, every time.

3. Your Grades Matter — A Lot

Grades are one of the few components of your application you cannot fix later. Prioritize your coursework. Set yourself up for success now so you’re not trying to compensate later.

On studying for the LSAT during undergrad:I don’t personally recommend it unless you know for sure you want to go straight through. If you do plan to go straight from college to law school, consider starting LSAT prep in your junior year so you have time to take — and potentially retake — the test.

4. Don’t Rush Into Law School

Everyone's circumstances are different, but do not rush into law school. The law schools your interested in aren't going anywhere. You want to apply when you are at your strongest. In fact, 1–3 gap years can be incredibly helpful.

Working before law school allows you to:

• Save money

• Gain professional experience

• Build maturity and confidence

• Strengthen your application

And there isn't a perfect job, but ideally, your choice should reflect your interests. Examples:

• Interested in policy? Work for a senator or advocacy organization.

• Curious about transactional work? Become a paralegal at a firm.

• Drawn to public interest? Work with a nonprofit or community organization.

Any job — including jobs taken for financial necessity — can demonstrate grit, responsibility, and dedication.

5. Build Strong Faculty and Professional Relationships

You will need letters of recommendation. Professors who barely know you cannot write strong letters.

Start now:

• Take more than one class with professors you like

• Go to office hours

• Tell them about your interests

• Build authentic relationships

Aim for at least 3–4 professors/ professional connections who can speak in detail about your academic abilities and work performance.

6. Be a Dynamic, Multi-Dimensional Person

A 4.0 GPA alone won’t carry your application. Law schools want interesting, well-rounded people who will contribute to their campus.

Think about the things that make you you.List hobbies on your résumé — seriously. Whether you’re a black belt in karate, a certified Pilates instructor, a painter, a chess player, or a marathon runner … it matters. It rounds out your story.

7. Do What You Can With What You Have

Not everyone can afford unpaid internships, summer programs, or extracurricular involvement — and that’s okay.

If you’re juggling:

• Family responsibilities

• Financial pressures

• Multiple jobs

• Limited free time

Law schools will understand. Use the resources you do have. Focus on maximizing opportunities within your circumstances. Working as a fast-food employee can demonstrate the same dedication and work ethic as an internship at a law firm.

You do not need to be a “perfect” applicant. Perfection doesn’t exist.

8. Network Thoughtfully

If you’re interested in a particular school or affinity group, don’t hesitate to reach out:

• Send respectful emails

• Ask alumni or current students for advice

• Connect on LinkedIn

• Attend virtual events

So many people are willing to help — especially those who see themselves in you. First-generation students, particularly, often find incredible mentors through cold outreach.

9. Be Authentically You

Do not tell admissions officers what you think they want to hear.

If you plan to pursue public interest — amazing.If you don’t — that’s okay too.

Not everyone goes to law school to “save the world.” There are dozens of ways to make meaningful impact: entertainment law, sports law, business, tech, healthcare, immigration, criminal justice, policy, IP — the list is endless.

Tell your own story. Tell them who you are — not who you think they want you to be.

10. Final Advice: Major in What You Enjoy

Don’t major in something just because you think it sounds impressive. A challenging major that tanks your GPA will not help your application. Choose fields you genuinely connect with — and excel in them.