Academics

Pre-Law > Words of wisdom

Two alumni, Brian Clauss and Earl Barnes, offered the following advice during ‘Lunch with a Lawyer’, February 12, 2008:

On their undergraduate years:
Both: A broad education is important.  What you major in is not crucial.  Try a lot of subjects.

On choosing a law school:
Earl: It’s important to pick the right school.  The general advice to attend the best school you’re admitted to is reasonable.  But also make sure the school is a good fit for you.  The best way to do this is to visit.

On law school itself:
Brian: The first year of law school will scare you to death; the second year will work you to death; the third year will bore you to death.
Earl: So don’t get too stressed out (during the first year.)  Stay as calm as you can.  Immerse yourself in the law—but don’t lose yourself.  Keep other interests and contacts.  Get to know some faculty and work with them.
Brian: Get out to see some non-lawyer folks.

On the job search:
Brian: Employers are looking at personality, drive, and analytical perspective. 
Both: But also remember your table-manners, and dress appropriately.

On life in the law:
Brian: Integrity is a key element in serving the law.  Lose your integrity and you can never regain it.  Do not surrender your integrity to expediency.
Earl: Don’t take shortcuts; stay above-board.