Should I Take a Gap Year Before Law School?
Let's face it: everyone - even your Aunt Sally, who's never set foot in a law school - has an opinion on whether you should take a gap year before diving into your legal studies. The good news is that a gap year can be incredibly beneficial. But is it the right move for you?
Why Consider a Gap Year?
Everyone's journey to law school is unique. When you're bombarded with mixed advice, it's time for some self-reflection. Law school is a significant investment of time, energy, and money. Here's a rundown of the top four reasons students typically opt for a gap year:
Finances
LSAT Planning
Travel
Burnout
Is law school right for you… right now?
Financial Considerations
Law school isn't cheap. Tuition, books, living expenses, and the inability to work full-time can quickly add up. Many students take a gap year to work and save money. This approach can ease financial stress, making the law school experience more manageable. However, some students choose to rely on loans, financial aid, or scholarships, viewing law school as an investment in their future high-earning potential.
LSAT Preparation
Planning for the LSAT is crucial. This test requires significant preparation, and without proper planning, you might not achieve the score you need. Each LSAT study cycle can take three to four months, and retakes can delay your law school plans. From my experience and the students I work with, studying for the LSAT usually takes about six to eight months - not three to four. Taking a gap year can provide the time necessary to focus on and excel in the LSAT without any other distractions.
Travel Adventures
Traveling during a gap year can be a fantastic experience. It's a chance to relax, see the world, and spend time with loved ones before the rigors of law school. Traveling and having this free time might be your last opportunity for a while - likely until you plan your BAR trip (the celebratory vacation after taking the BAR exam). Traveling during your gap year can be an enriching and memorable experience if you can afford it. Maybe even consider an internship or volunteer opportunities while abroad!
Time to take a break?
Combating Burnout
After four years of undergraduate studies, the thought of jumping straight into another three years of intense law school can be daunting. Burnout is real, and taking a gap year to recharge can be crucial. If the idea of more schooling exhausts you, a break might be exactly what you need to regain your energy and enthusiasm. Taking a gap year to let yourself recharge will not set you back.
Will a Gap Year Help Me Get Accepted?
A well-spent gap year can only enhance your law school application. Gaining experience in the legal field, whether through internships, work, or volunteering, can provide valuable insights and strengthen your resume. Even if your gap year is spent on personal growth and relaxation, it won't hurt your chances of acceptance.
Do Law Schools Value a Gap Year?
Law schools appreciate applicants who bring diverse experiences to the table. If your gap year adds to your skills, knowledge, or personal development, it will be viewed positively. Even taking a year off for your mental health can be seen as a strength, showing that you're a well-rounded and self-aware individual.
Craft your application to reflect positively on your gap year.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether to take a gap year before law school is a personal decision, not Aunt Sally's. It offers a chance to prepare financially, academically, and personally for the demanding journey ahead. Reflect on what you need and make the choice that's best for you. Whatever you decide, know that a gap year can be a strategic move that enriches your law school experience and beyond.
