Law school can seem like something off in the distance. You’re just working on your high school classes now. Many serious students aren’t waiting until later. They’re preparing for careers now. You don’t have to study for the LSAT now. With the right high school classes, you can lay the foundation for a successful career in law. You’re learning the core concepts and logic law students use to pass the LSAT and bar exam every year. The sooner you do it, the easier it will be later on.
The odds of getting into a good law school are more challenging than ever before. Even after you graduate, the job market is competitive. So you have to be prepared to bring more to the table. Employers can’t tell if new graduates are bright or hard workers. They can only tell where you graduated, extracurriculars you list, etc.
Once you get into college, you have four years to prepare academically and otherwise. High school classes can give you a head start.
Take the Right High School Classes for a Law Career
Whether you learn online or in a traditional setting, it’s not hard to find the right high school classes. Focus on a well-rounded education first and foremost. Don’t shy away from things you find more challenging. This way, you can grow and get used to a more rigorous schedule. Law school requires lengthy hours, and not everybody comes in prepared.
High schools require a set number of English credits before you can graduate. Put more effort into your English scores, and check into advanced placement options. Once you get into college, this can boost you into higher level English classes and reduce the number of classes you have to take. Lawyers spend a large part of their day focused on writing briefs and other legal documents.
If you can, also look into English options that focus on persuasive writing and research. This could mean taking an extra debate style class. You can also look for an English teacher who is willing to help you find other learning opportunities. Most lawyers rarely go to court. So the preliminary work you do matters, and it’s a large part of the LSAT and bar exam. When you can communicate your thoughts more clearly and get the facts right, you open more doors.
Lawyers use a broad range of skills to make effective arguments. So classes like psychology and other classes focused on communication and speeches are essential. Political science classes can give you more background for the law you’ll be working within. You can sharpen your critical thinking skills with math and science. Always put more focus on things like English, writing, and communication, though. Whenever you can, look into advanced placement options.
Look for Extracurricular Activities with Your High School Classes
Many people think of extracurricular activities that will help them get into the right college. If you’re considering a career in law, narrow that down to activities that will help you get into law school later on. Things like joining a debate team give you a strong resume builder. They also help you hone the specific skills you’ll use as an attorney. Sometimes, these teams also help you practice your public speaking skills. So if you go to court or work with a corporation, you’ll be more prepared.
Some schools sponsor these types of clubs or teams. When you take high school classes online, you get more flexibility. You may have to seek out more opportunities for extracurricular activities, though. You can look into summer camps and conferences near you. Some programs even hold mock trials. If you know lawyers, you can also ask them to observe or attend trials as an observer. This gives you an idea of what real lawyers do.
Find Part-Time Jobs While Taking High School Classes Online
Taking high school classes online can offer you more flexibility in your schedule. Always make sure to set aside time for your classes each day. You should never fall behind because of other things you’ve added to your schedule. When you have time, you can look into jobs at local law firms.
Many are always hiring people to answer phones, file paperwork, and more. You can even start learning about what paralegals do. As a high school student, you can get an early introduction to life in a law firm. Sometimes, this will strengthen your resolve and help you build professional relationships. You can use these connections and get letters of recommendation later on. Some students determine early on that law isn’t the right career for them. If this happens to you, it gives you more time to find the things you are passionate about.
If you need extra help in your high school classes, the most important thing you can learn is to ask. Reach out and ask teachers and others for help. This way, you can be sure you’re doing things the right way the first time around instead of stumbling around. Once you get into law school, you’ll be expected to keep up and work hard. If you already know how to learn and ask for help when you need it, you’ll be at an advantage compared to your fellow students. To explore high school classes online, click here.
