Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Law Students
Isabel, a Stanford Law student, advises undergraduates considering law to pursue "what you're interested in," whether it's education, cryptocurrency, or paralegal work, emphasizing authenticity in showcasing career choices. The application process benefits from a compelling narrative explaining one's academic and professional journey, even if a chosen path proves unfulfilling.
Authenticity, Career Exploration, Pre-law Experiences, Storytelling in Applications, Following Your Interests
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Isabel Mendiola
Law Student
Stanford Law School
Claremont McKenna College 2018
Stanford Law School (JD Forthcoming)
Psychology
Law
Legal
Honors Student, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School
Video Highlights
1. Explore diverse interests: A law school application benefits from showcasing a genuine passion, regardless of the specific field of study or work experience.
2. Authenticity in storytelling: Connecting your college studies, post-college job experiences, and interest in law creates a compelling application narrative.
3. No single prescribed path: Entry-level positions can vary widely; focus on what genuinely interests you, rather than feeling pressured to pursue a specific role like paralegal work or Capitol Hill positions.
Transcript
What entry-level positions are there in this field that an undergraduate college student might consider?
I think law schools value diverse interests and authenticity. They want to see people who are genuinely passionate about what they pursue.
For those considering entry-level positions before law school, my main advice is to follow your genuine interests. Many people believe you must be a paralegal or work on Capitol Hill, but that's not necessarily the case.
Whether your passion lies in education, cryptocurrency, or even being a paralegal, pursue it. This authenticity will shine through in your application.
Be able to tell a story about why you studied what you did in college and why you took the job you did afterward. It's perfectly fine if you later realize your chosen path isn't for you; the key is being able to share your full story authentically.