Three Tips For First-Generation Law Students

Three Tips For First-Generation Law Students

While being a first-generation law student is something to be immensely proud of, it can also come with certain challenges. If you’re a newly admitted first-generation law student or one seeking some guidance, you’ve come to the right place. JD Advising has successfully helped thousands of first-generation law students around the country succeed in law school. So, without further ado, here are JD Advising’s top three tips for first-generation law students.

Three Tips For First-Generation Law Students

1. You’re Not Flying Solo

If you’re a first-generation law student, chances are you’re not the only one in your class! In fact, the majority (or close to it!) of your classmates are likely first-generation law schools students. While your family might not have a clue what you’re going through, your fellow classmates most certainly do. Who better to look to for support than the people sitting next to you in class who are also experiencing a new law school journey?

Since you’re not going through the law school experience alone, don’t hesitate to reach out to your classmates! Remember, there’s strength in numbers. It can also be comforting to find classmates with similar backgrounds and experience. A great way to connect with other first-generation law students is by utilizing your law school’s resources. For example, many law schools have first-generation law student associations specifically created to connect students with one another. In addition, law school social media groups, sponsored mixers, and other events can all provide great outlets for forming connections.

 2. Support Systems Matter

While first-generation law students don’t have family members they can turn to that endured law school, that doesn’t minimize the importance of support. Part of this means making sure your family and other members of your support system realizes how serious an undertaking law school is. For example, explaining the financial, professional, and academic obligations that come along with law school to family members can help tremendously. By providing information about some of the obligations you will experience as a law student, your support system can have a better understanding of how to support you throughout your journey! It will also help them adjust their expectations of you during law school. Nothing is worse than mom calling about your grandparent’s anniversary party the week of your final exams.

3. It’s Up To You

If you’re a first-generation law student, your entire experience in law school falls squarely on your shoulders. Some students may have the luxury of calling a family member to explain a tough legal concept. Even though you might not have that luxury, try not to worry! By engaging with other students and networking, you’ll meet other attorneys who are willing to help you through your law school journey. Don’t be scared to get fully immersed in the law school experience. Take advantage of your law school’s academic tutoring, your professors’ office hours, and student study groups. Outline early in the semester and update them as you progress. Stay on top of the assigned readings. To be the first in your family to do something might not be easy, but there are plenty of folks who want to help you succeed!

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