Starting Law School: Advice from Professor Thomas McDonnell

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Welcome to Law School!

I have been asked to offer a few words of advice to incoming law students.

The first year of law school is much like a marathon. Preparing for a marathon requires months of training—running consistently, building endurance, and gradually preparing for the 26-mile race. Beginning your training a week before race day is unlikely to produce a successful result. Law school is not different. Rather than cramming before final exams, study consistently throughout the semester. Come to class prepared, engage actively in class discussions, and review the material regularly. Those habits often distinguish successful students.

Two additional suggestions. First, know your audience. Professors frequently test the concepts and principles they emphasize in class, so pay particular attention to those topics. You may also find it worthwhile to look at your professors' scholarship—their articles (and books, if any). When their research overlaps with the course material, it can provide insight into the issues they consider especially important, issues that might appear on their exams.

Second, practice the skill that will be tested. Law school exams are unlike most college exams. The best preparation is to review your professors' prior examinations and regularly practice writing answers under exam conditions. It takes time to develop strong legal analysis and exam-writing skills, and consistent practice is the best way to improve.

Success in law school also depends on taking care of yourself. Regular exercise—even a 20-minute walk several times a week—can improve concentration and reduce stress. Eating well and getting sufficient sleep are equally important. Knowing the law is a necessary, but not a sufficient condition to excel. You also need to be alert and focused, as well as attuned to law exam-taking techniques, to maximize your performance.

Remember that law school is not only challenging—it is also an opportunity.

—Professor Thomas M. McDonnell

Finally, remember that law school is not only challenging—it is also an opportunity. Use your time here, including your summers, to explore different areas of law and different forms of legal practice. Ask questions, seek advice, and take advantage of the many resources available to you. Speak with your professors during and after class, visit during office hours, and reach out by email. Our librarians, Academic Success, the Registrar’s Office, Career Services, IT professionals, faculty assistants, and everyone else on the law school faculty and staff are here to support you on your journey.

I wish you every success as you begin your legal education.

Best,

Professor Thomas M. McDonnell