How Identity Has Influenced a Founding Partner at VLP Law Group's Career
David, a Founding Partner at VLP Law Group, notes that success in the legal field is unfortunately "very, um, numbers and prestige oriented," emphasizing the importance of attending top undergraduate and law schools to gain access to top firms. High grades, strong recommendations, relevant extracurriculars, and a demonstrated purpose are key to achieving this, as are good LSAT scores.
Grades, Recommendations, Extracurricular Activities, Law School, Networking
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
David Goldenberg
Founding Partner
VLP Law Group
Stanford 1993
Law - JD - Stanford Law School
Philosophy
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing), Law
Entrepreneurship and Business Owner
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Maintain high grades and strong recommendations.
2. Engage in extracurricular activities relevant to your field of interest.
3. Achieve a high LSAT score for law school admission.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
Sadly, the world of law is very numbers and prestige-oriented. Your ability to get into a good firm often depends on which law school you attended. The top schools get into the top firms, and the top firms only look at the top schools.
It's kind of silly because I don't think that's what makes a great lawyer, but that is how the world works. To get into a top school, it's very similar to how you got into undergrad: grades, recommendations, and extracurriculars related to your field.
So, you just keep grinding. Obviously, good LSAT scores are important. And having a purpose related to changing the world often helps with your law school application.