Law school and the legal profession are often surrounded by misconceptions. Some prospective students begin the application process with unrealistic expectations, leading to surprises and challenges along the way. Today, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths to help you make informed decisions.
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Myth #1: You Should Major in Law & Society, PPE, or Political Science
Reality: Law schools accept students from a variety of academic backgrounds. While these majors can provide a foundational understanding of legal concepts, students with degrees in STEM, business, and other areas also thrive in law school. Admissions committees value critical thinking, strong writing skills, and rigorous coursework over specific majors.
Myth #2: You Must Have a Perfect (or close) LSAT Score to Get Into a Good Law School
Reality: While the LSAT is an important factor in law school admissions, it is not the sole criterion. Law schools also consider GPA, work/volunteer experience, essays, and letters of recommendation. Many schools take a holistic approach to admissions, so a lower LSAT score can be balanced by other strong components in your application.
Myth #3: Lawyers Make a Lot of Money Right Away
Reality: While some lawyers secure high-paying jobs at prestigious firms, many start their careers with modest salaries, especially in public interest law, government, or small firms. Law school debt can also impact financial stability in the early years of a legal career. Law Hub is a good starting point for researching law school employment outcomes.
Myth #4: Law School Teaches You Everything You Need to Know to Practice Law
Reality: Law school provides a theoretical foundation, but much of the practical knowledge needed for legal practice is learned on the job. Internships, clerkships, and other hands-on experiences are essential for developing real-world legal skills.
Myth #5: You Need to Know Exactly What Type of Law You Want to Practice Before Law School
Reality: Many law students enter law school unsure of their specialization, and that’s perfectly fine. Law school provides opportunities to explore different areas of law through coursework, internships, and clinics. It’s normal for students to change their focus as they gain more exposure to different fields.
In Closing
Understanding the realities of a legal career can help you smoothly navigate your professional journey. By meeting with a pre-law advisor on Handshake, you’ll be better prepared for the opportunities that come with applying to law school.
