IS LAW SCHOOL RIGHT FOR ME?

Not only can law school be a daunting financial expense, but it is also a considerable time investment. Law school can certainly be the ticket to a highly fulfilling career for many people. The question that you have to answer, however, is "am I the kind of person who will discover the legal profession a rewarding one?" Although difficult to envision the future, self-awareness coupled with knowledge of the legal field will be your best guide.

You do not need to be (or become) a highly aggressive, argumentative, or outspoken person to be a success in the legal field. Rather possessing an analytical mind, well-developed verbal and writing skills, common sense, and a strong work ethic are key elements. The ability to see the big picture, express empathy, and attend to detail are also beneficial.

Law school is a means to an end, yet surprisingly, very few applicants know very much about what lawyers actually do and what they like and dislike about their chosen careers. One of the best ways to learn about the law profession is by speaking with lawyers. A law degree can open doors to careers not only at law firms but also in government, business, higher education, communications, and a number of other fields. An expectation of high salaries is also a factor in choosing a career in law. Legal work, however, can require many hours of tedious, painstaking research and repetitive administrative tasks. If after careful consideration of the realities of the legal profession you are committed to the prospect of a career that will require you to think logically, critically, and creatively; to address some of the major social issues that confront our times; and to play a part in shaping legal institutions and codes that influence the future, then becoming a lawyer may very well prove to be a rewarding and fulfilling choice for you.

In recent years, there has been a considerable increase in the number of attorneys leaving the practice of law. While high salaries, power and prestige are very attractive, the long hours, stress and repetition can outweigh the benefits.

Students are often lured to law school by what they perceive as a secure career path. Certainly a legal education provides a good foundation for any work setting, but there may be other ways to achieve your interests and career goals. Law school is expensive and requires total commitment to your school work, so make sure the investment of time and money is worth your effort.

Before you begin the process of applying to law school, evaluate your skills, abilities, interests and personal characteristics.

> Are you a good writer?

> Do you express yourself well?

> Are you good at investigating and researching information?

> Do you like to argue and debate?

> Are you analytical?

> Can you see both sides of an issue?

> Are you persistent?

The decision to study law after Trinity is one that you want to make only after solid self-assessment and research. A "default" decision, made just because nothing else appeals, is the weakest of the rationales and may put your future professional and personal fulfillment at risk. A good article on making a decision to go to law school can be found at http://law.baylor.edu/Admissions/doI.htm.