Four Must-Read Tips for Starting Law School at 30
Four Must-Read Tips for Starting Law School at 30
You are never too old to go to law school! There is absolutely nothing wrong with starting law school at 30, and you definitely won’t be alone. Your law school class will be filled with people of all ages and backgrounds in life, including those on their second (or third) career. There might even be one or two people in their 70s, depending on where you go! Everyone has something to contribute in law school, and everyone will face their own personal challenges. But don’t let fears about being “too old” be a deterrent in deciding whether to attend. Once classes get going, no one will think twice about your age. As long as you are true to yourself and recognize your goals and limits, you have the ability to succeed in law school.
Four Must-Read Tips for Starting Law School at 30
Here are four must-read tips for starting law school at 30:
1. Remember age is just a number.
In law school, everyone is taking on this challenge together. Students rarely care how old their friends are. They focus on how well you can help each other through your problems. If you’re starting law school at 30, don’t assume that cliques will form based on age. Your class will form a unique bond regardless of age. Try to socialize with everyone. Identify people that you think will be good study partners, even if they are fresh out of undergrad or married with four kids. Don’t limit your social circle to those who are your age, thinking that other groups might not understand what you’re going through. Everyone has their own personal difficulties they will face throughout law school. It is very important to not close yourself off from what could be great assets for you just because you think they are too young to “get it.”
2. Identify your priorities.
All of the above being said, it is likely that many people starting law school at 30 have different priorities than those who are other ages. Maybe you have a family while others are eager to hold on to the “party phase” of life. Thus, while it is important to avoid stereotyping age groups when considering socializing, you also have to surround yourself with the right people for your goals. Put yourself in the proper situations so that you can get what you want out of law school. Remember who you are and where you want to go. Don’t get distracted by anyone who might try to pull you in a different direction.
3. Know your limits.
Law school is the ultimate test for your body and your time management skills. If you’re starting law school at 30, recognize that your body is likely in a different condition than those who are younger (and older as well!). Customize your study strategies accordingly. Some people may be able to stay up late at night to study. Maybe you can’t do that. You might have a family to take care of. Or you may just feel too exhausted. Recognize that your study schedule doesn’t have to be the same as everyone else’s. You need to do what’s best for you at this stage in your life!
4. Share your life experiences.
Those who are starting law school at 30 are probably going to be older than a majority of the other students. The average age of incoming students appears to be around 24 – but some will be younger (as young as 18!) and others will be older.
You’ve likely seen and learned a lot and you come into law school with a different perspective than an 18 year old. Everyone who goes to law school is clearly intelligent and is interested in expanding their knowledge and skills. The younger students are likely eager to learn and can gain a lot from your experience and advice. Think of your age as an advantage over those who are coming right from college. Don’t isolate yourself, show everyone what kind of an asset you can be to their growth and development as individuals.
Laura Sigler, a JD Advising bar exam essay grader, who graduated cum laude from Wayne State University Law School wrote this post.
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