Erin Berthon, MA Career Manager, Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, at Chapman University

Considering law school can be overwhelming, especially when social media, peers, and TV shows make it seem more mysterious or intimidating than it actually is. At Chapman University, students from every major can explore the path to law. I’m here to help break down what actually matters and what doesn’t, so you can prepare with confidence and intention. Hearing directly from the alumni at our recent Pre-Law Mixer only reinforced this. Listening to their journeys, challenges, and advice revealed just how many different paths can lead to law school and how valuable real-world insight is when deciding on your next steps.

Myth #1: You Need to Be a Pre-Law Major to Go to Law School

Reality: Law schools don’t require or prefer a specific major.
At Chapman University, successful law applicants come from a variety of backgrounds, including Political Science, English, Psychology, Business, Philosophy, STEM fields, and even Creative Writing. What matters is building strong reading, writing, research, and analytical skills—tools you can develop in Wilkinson College classes.

What to do:

  • Enroll in classes that challenge your writing and critical thinking skills.
  • Choose a major you enjoy because you’ll naturally perform better.
  • Add a minor that will help you, like law and liberal arts.

Myth #2: You Need a Perfect GPA to Get In

Reality: A high GPA is helpful, but it’s not the whole story. Admissions committees review your transcript in context. Your course rigor, any upward trends, the challenges you’ve navigated, your letters of recommendation, and the strength of your personal statement all play a major role.

What to do:

  • Meet with academic advising early to plan your semesters.
  • If one term was rocky, show growth and highlight it in your application.
  • Build relationships with professors who can speak to your strengths; this will make the letter of recommendation more meaningful.

Myth #3: You Need to Know What Type of Lawyer You Want to Be

Reality: Most students discover their interests during law school. Exploration is normal, expected, and encouraged—you’re not supposed to walk in already knowing whether you’ll specialize in environmental law, corporate law, or anything else.

What to do:

  • Attend Chapman’s Pre-Law events, panels, and alumni mixers. You will learn a lot!
  • Network through LinkedIn and conduct informational interviews.
  • Volunteer or intern in areas that spark curiosity, not commitment.

Myth #4: You Have to Take the LSAT ASAP

Reality: The best time to take the LSAT is when you’re fully prepared.
Your score lasts for years, and a rushed score hurts more than waiting.

What to do:

  • Explore various prep tools (free and paid) early, and ask around for the best ones.
  • Take a diagnostic to understand your baseline.
  • Build a 3–6 month study plan—balanced with your semester load.
  • Talk with Chapman’s Pre-Law advisor for timeline recommendations.

So… What Actually Helps You Prepare for Law School?

1. Build High-Impact Skills

Law school is all about reading, writing, logic, and time management.
At Chapman University, you can build these organically through:

  • Upper-division writing courses.
  • Research-intensive classes.
  • Debate or mock trial, or you can ask the law school to audit a class for the experience.
  • Campus jobs like tutoring or peer advising.

2. Get Experience That Shows Initiative

You don’t need a legal internship—truly. Law schools value roles that demonstrate leadership, service, problem-solving, and initiative. Consider getting a job or internship in an industry related to the area of law you’re interested in, or choose a role that helps you develop skills you feel you’re lacking, such as communication, organization, research, or client interaction. All of these experiences help shape the kind of law student who will help you be confident.

Examples:

  • Research with faculty.
  • Community service.
  • Clubs (Pre-Law Society, Latinx Club, SGA, etc.).
  • Chapman Ambassadors.
  • Career-related jobs or internships in any field.

3. Craft a Strong Personal Narrative

Law schools want to know: Why law? Why you? Why now? Keep an ongoing document of meaningful stories, challenges, and wins; your future personal statement will thank you. Start reflecting early by asking yourself:

  • What experiences sparked or shaped your interest in law?
  • What injustices or issues made you think deeper or take action?
  • How have your values or perspectives evolved during your time at Chapman?
  • What communities or causes do you hope to serve through a legal career?

4.  Build Your Professional Presence Early

A polished LinkedIn, an organized resume, and professional email etiquette go a long way. Some ideas are:

  • Update your headline (“Chapman University | Political Science & Law + Liberal Arts | Interested in Law, Public Policy, and Community Relations”).
  • Connect with alumni—Chapman’s network is incredibly strong.
  • Attend law-related programs even if you’re “just exploring.”

Final Thoughts: Start Where You Are

Preparing for law school doesn’t mean being perfect—it means being curious, intentional, and authentic. Every student’s path looks different, and that’s exactly how it should be.

If you ever feel unsure, overwhelmed, or just need direction, make sure to utilize your Chapman resources. Connect with Chapman’s Career Team and Ron Steiner, our Pre-Law Advisor, who can help you explore options, strengthen your application, and navigate the journey with confidence and clarity.

You don’t have to figure this out alone; we’re here to support you every step of the way.