The Law School Admissions Council documented that 149,745 students were enrolled in American Bar Association accredited law schools across the nation in 2007.
Of the nearly 150,000 students 70,263 were female.
The number of minorities enrolled in law school more than doubled from 1986 to 2007.
With these statistics increasing every year, students from all demographics have the opportunity to enroll in a law school.
If you are considering law school, here are a few things that you should know.
- Your undergraduate grade point average does matter and you must work hard to maintain good grades.
- You should use all of your resources to prepare for the Law School Admissions Test.
- Apply to more than five schools.
According to the LSAC, law schools want critical thinkers who write well with some understanding of what shapes the human experience. The council advises that your undergrad work should not be narrowly based or vocationally oriented. Critical analysis, logical reasoning and written and oral expression are important for law students.
Core skills and values needed for a legal education:
- Analytical and problem-solving skills – must structure and evaluate arguments for and against issues.
- Critical reading abilities – substantial experience with close reading and critical analyses is suggested.
- Writing skills – best to have a high degree of skill at written communication.
- Oral communication and listening abilities – must speak clearly and persuasively while utilizing excellent listening skills.
- General research skills – basic library skills and ability to analyze large amounts of information.
- Organization and management skills – ability to organize and apply large amounts of information or data.
- Values of serving others and promoting justice – dedication to serving others honestly, competently and responsibly.
- General knowledge – a broad understanding of history, understanding of the American political system, and basic financial skills.
If you believe you have these skills or could develop them before admittance, then you are well on your way to pursuing a legal education.
Check out the Admissions page to get general information about how to apply and look over the info on the L.S.A.T. Exam page for facts about the rigorous exam.
