University-wide Pre-law Advising
What is the best major for those seeking to eventually attend law school?
There are a number of articles and studies one may look to for what the “better” law school preparatory major is
Here are a few of the most recent ones:
However, there are no rules on law school majors.
There is no “perfect major,” one that law schools clamor for when reviewing applications.
In fact, several jurists have stated that one’s choice of baccalaureate major does not matter. Law schools are, however, seeking certain skills and experiences.
Here are a few:
- Critical thinking/reading
- Oral & written communication
- Collaborative & individual problem solving
- Broad knowledge base
- Editing
- Exposure to the Law
- Organizational and management
- Solo problem solving
- Public/volunteer service
- Relationship building
- Research (beyond mere search engine searches)
What kind of jobs are there for non-courtroom lawyers?
There are many non-litigation roles lawyers play. They include, but are by no means limited to:
- Compliance Officer
- Judicial clerk
- Equal Opportunity Officer
- Law school professor
- Estate planning attorney
- Lobbyist
- Federal law enforcement officer
- Patent attorney
- Human Resources Director
- Tax attorney
Paying for law school
Post-secondary students at all levels know that higher education is an investment in one’s future and that the loans taken for that study accumulate interest and need to be repaid. For that reason, it is essential that those going on the law school to spend the time informing themselves on some of the ways to pay for law school. Here are some helpful sites:
- Student Loan Repayment and Forgiveness
- Financing Law School
- Access Group
Study Abroad
During your undergraduate studies at ESU, consider studying abroad. Why? The academic and intercultural experiences abroad enhance your growth as an individual, affords you new perspectives, language-skill enhancement and the interpersonal aspects considered by many law school admissions officers. For more, contact the International Study Programs office.
Who are the primary pre-law contacts at ESU?
The current University-Wide Pre-Law adviser is Dr. Christopher Brooks, Department of History (cbrooks@esu.edu). However, several other faculty across campus will be solid resources when it comes to scheduling courses that both meet the demands of many majors and help in acquiring the skills necessary for law school admission.
- Computer Science: Dr. Mike Jochen mjochen@esu.edu
- Philosophy: Dr. Storm Heter sheter@esu.edu
- Political Science: Dr. Kimberly Adams kadams@esu.edu
- Business: Wes Niemoczynski wniemoczyn@esu.edu
In many cases there are cross-overs, but sometimes there are not. So, do consult pre-law advisers if you have questions.
For additional information
Contact Us
Contact Information
- Campus Address
- Stroud Hall
- Phone:
- (570) 422-3913
- Fax:
- (570) 422-3937 (Fax)
- Title of Department Leader
- Pre-Law Advising History & Geography
- Name
- Christopher Brooks
- E:
- cbrooks@esu.edu
