Tips for getting into law school despite a bad start?

hlsdreams · 08-30-2012, 09:22 PM

I took college classes in high school. Blew them off, but managed a B. Then I went to a university and failed because I didn't even bother. My GPA reflects that currently, but I've realized my mistakes and have since been working hard to get As. I'm a math major focusing on physics and a dual certification in secondary teaching with hopes to go on to law school. I'm wondering would it still be possible to get into a good law school despite the hiccups in my GPA? Say my LSAT score is 170+ and my GPA ends up being around a 3.0-3.5. I've read that law schools see certain undergrad degrees, like engineering, sciences and math, and actually credit GPAs higher because of their difficulty. Would that be the case with a BS in math and a minor in physics? Also I plan on interning in the the teaching program, would that help as well? What advice would you give to someone who really wants to turn around and work hard to get into law school?

bluebayou · 08-31-2012, 12:34 AM

Quote:

I've read that law schools see certain undergrad degrees, like engineering, sciences and math, and actually credit GPAs higher because of their difficulty.

Check your sources....(it ain't true).

kwu · 08-31-2012, 05:12 AM

Get an LSAT score above your target's 75th percentile.

Gold2828 · 09-13-2012, 12:28 PM

Agree - great LSAT score can help

Gold2828 · 09-13-2012, 12:29 PM

Also, work experience can help

JonSpecter · 09-13-2012, 03:22 PM

On top of getting a high LSAT score, it really depends on what school you apply to.
Sorry to break it to you, but Harvard Law is out of the question. But in all seriousness, with that GPA you will have struggle, but law school is still possible.

I live in California and we have plenty of schools that are ABA accredited, which means you'll be able to take the Bar Exam anywhere in the country after you graduate But if you wish to stay in that specific state which you reside, for me, I live in California, you can apply to schools that are CBA accredited. OF course, these schools will be less known and you may or may not have a more difficult time getting a job coming from a CBA accredited school, it will none the less get you that degree. Pros of attending CBA school, cheaper tuition and easier to get in to. Much easier to get in to. However cons, you're less likely to be able to work for a big firm.

Note: This is not from personal experience, this is from research I did when I wanted to become a lawyer as a philosophy major.

UCBhopeful16 · 09-21-2012, 09:00 AM

Before you start applying to any law schools be sure to make sure it's worth the cost to attend. Use Law School Transparency to look at real employment statistics upon graduation. Even very low tier law schools are very very expensive and could very easily leave you with crippling debt.