Guide to a Gap Year Before Law School

Why a Gap Year?

A gap year isn’t just about taking a break; it’s about investing in yourself. Due to the demands of a hectic class schedule, the desire to gain work experience or retake the LSAT, sometimes taking a gap year is strategically the best move before going to law school. Statistically, most law school applications are from those who have taken at least one year off prior to pursuing their legal education, so you are not alone if you decide to make this decision!

Here are some things that you can do to make the most of your time before going back to law school:

  • Gain Real-World Experience:
    • Internships: Internships can provide hands-on experience in legal or related fields. This can help you narrow down your legal interests and build a professional network.
    • Full/Part-Time Jobs: Working can help you develop valuable soft skills like time management, communication, and problem-solving. A lot of students decide to work as paralegals, or in government/public policy roles to find out if they enjoy working in the legal field before making the investment in law school.
      • Note: Law schools do not require you to have any prior legal experience before starting law school. You can also pursue traditional work experience as well.
      • Example: many students interested in working in corporate law one day decide to work in compliance, HR, or sales and marketing roles before heading back to school. This gives them insider knowledge on industry trends and lingo that will prepare them for working as a lawyer in the corporate world.
    • Volunteer Work: Volunteering can be a fulfilling way to give back to your community while gaining valuable experience.
  • Academic Enrichment:
    • Graduate Programs: Consider pursuing a master’s degree in a related field, such as business or public policy.
    • Online Courses: Taking online courses can help you stay sharp and learn new skills.
    • Research: Working as a research assistant can give you valuable experience in academic research and writing.
    • Study for the LSAT: Having more time to focus on this exam is sometimes beneficial for students who would like to boost their score a few points.

How to Make the Most of Your Gap Year

  1. Set Clear Goals:
    • Professional Goals: What do you hope to achieve professionally during your gap year?
    • Personal Goals: What are your personal goals for the year? Do you want to travel, learn a new language, or volunteer?
  2. Create a Budget:
    • Financial Planning: Develop a budget to ensure that you can afford your expenses.
    • Part-Time Work: Consider part-time work to supplement your income.
  3. Network:
    • Connect with Alumni: Reach out to law school alumni for advice and networking opportunities.
    • Meet with Pre-Law Advisor: You can still schedule pre-law advising appointments even as an alumnae
  4. Stay Organized:
    • Time Management: Especially if you plan to study for the LSAT, create a schedule to help keep yourself accountable and on track to meet your goals.

Potential Gap Year Paths

Here are some specific paths you might consider:

  • Legal Internship: Gain hands-on experience in a law firm, government agency, or non-profit organization.
  • Teaching English Abroad: Combine travel with teaching English to international students.
  • Public Service: Volunteer with a non-profit organization or work on a political campaign.
  • Academic Research: Work with a professor on a research project.

A gap year can be a transformative experience. By taking the time to explore your interests, gain real-world experience, and develop your skills, you can set yourself up for success in law school and beyond.