On November 2nd, Dr. Thomas Mackey joined the McConnell Scholars to discuss the realities of law school and legal education. This Senior Fellow of the McConnell Center warned the scholars not to assume this professional path without reflection. Although a great number of undergraduates claim law school as the next step in their academic pursuits, most fail to comprehend the difficulties of their goal. Throughout American history, the legal profession produced leaders in all fields—public and private. In earning the elite status of a lawyer, individuals pay taxing dues.
This test of fortitude begins as an undergraduate. Dr. Mackey explained that the developing student controls the possibilities for his or her legal education. Obtaining admittance to law school hinges upon the undergraduate's ability to improve analytical reading and writing skills. These skills dominate both the study and practice of the law. Law schools require prospective students to study no particular discipline, but they expect students to excel within their chosen fields and develop analytical proficiency.
To measure the skills of those brave souls who apply, law schools rely on numbers. These numbers constitute the most visible aspect of an undergraduate’s control. The maintenance of a high grade-point average (GPA) demonstrates work ethic and the ability to succeed in the classroom. The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) stands as the second and most feared assessment used by law schools. This exam measures critical thinking in a timed setting and simulates the pressures of legal education. As in most cases, practice improves performance. Dr. Mackey’s advice placed the reins of the law school admissions process in the hands of the McConnell Scholars.
In his conclusion, Dr. Mackey compelled the scholars to consider the nature of legal education. Law school constitutes a means to an end. Although the stress of the admissions process holds a prime position in the minds of undergraduates, they ought to consider where the path of the law leads. The majority of people who receive a J.D. never practice law. They use their degree to open alternative doors in public service, business, academia, and a multitude of other fields. The prospective law student needs to ensure that legal education conforms to their future plans prior to entering this competitive world.
This test of fortitude begins as an undergraduate. Dr. Mackey explained that the developing student controls the possibilities for his or her legal education. Obtaining admittance to law school hinges upon the undergraduate's ability to improve analytical reading and writing skills. These skills dominate both the study and practice of the law. Law schools require prospective students to study no particular discipline, but they expect students to excel within their chosen fields and develop analytical proficiency.
To measure the skills of those brave souls who apply, law schools rely on numbers. These numbers constitute the most visible aspect of an undergraduate’s control. The maintenance of a high grade-point average (GPA) demonstrates work ethic and the ability to succeed in the classroom. The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) stands as the second and most feared assessment used by law schools. This exam measures critical thinking in a timed setting and simulates the pressures of legal education. As in most cases, practice improves performance. Dr. Mackey’s advice placed the reins of the law school admissions process in the hands of the McConnell Scholars.
In his conclusion, Dr. Mackey compelled the scholars to consider the nature of legal education. Law school constitutes a means to an end. Although the stress of the admissions process holds a prime position in the minds of undergraduates, they ought to consider where the path of the law leads. The majority of people who receive a J.D. never practice law. They use their degree to open alternative doors in public service, business, academia, and a multitude of other fields. The prospective law student needs to ensure that legal education conforms to their future plans prior to entering this competitive world.