When it comes to law school, the biggest adjustment isn’t always the course load. It’s usually pretty clear that the workload will be far greater than what you were used to in undergrad. However, one key aspect people often overlook is the mindset shift that’s needed to keep up with this level of work. It’s not just about study habits but also about reshaping your work habits, social life, and even your approach to success and failure.
While it may seem obvious that all these adjustments are necessary, they’re often not at the forefront of students’ minds as they begin their journey. For instance, you have to be prepared to hear “no” more often and—most importantly—learn to be comfortable with being wrong. Accepting when you’re mistaken is crucial to growth; after all, real learning starts when you’re willing to challenge your own assumptions and recognize where you can improve.
Lean into your support system and talk things through with them. I’ve found it especially helpful to share my school-related concerns with people outside of law school, as they provide a fresh perspective and are removed from the daily pressures. At the same time, remember that your law school peers can become an equally vital support system—no one understands the unique challenges of law school quite like they do. While this might seem contradictory, I’ve found it invaluable to have both perspectives during my journey.

It’s often tempting to dive headfirst into everything during your initial semester of law school. While getting involved is beneficial, prioritizing yourself is key. Your primary focus should be on your coursework and adjusting to the demands of law school. Your study habits from undergrad likely won’t suffice here; thorough reading and active class participation are essential. While involvement in extracurricular activities is valuable, it should be approached gradually. Sign up for club emails but prioritize classes and your well-being above all else. Remember, prioritizing yourself is crucial for navigating the demanding three-year journey of law school while maintaining a healthy balance. Take care of your mental and physical health—it’s vital for long-term success.

Once you’ve completed your first semester triumphantly and laid the groundwork for a prosperous journey through law school, it’s time to dedicate some effort to clubs, honor societies, and internships that pique your interest. It’s common to feel the urge to rush through law school due to its rapid pace, but occasionally, you must deliberately slow down. My top tip for success in this endeavor is organization. I rely on various lists scattered throughout my life—daily to-dos, monthly tasks, and even long-term reminders for important but less urgent matters. Amidst it all, strive to relish the experience, forge lifelong connections, and create lasting memories. When you are in it, law school feels like the longest three years you will go through, but like most things in life, the days and weeks are long but the years fly by.