How to Prepare For a Career as a Lawyer
Pursuing a career in law has so many benefits. Some of them include a variety of employment opportunities in the private and public sector, a sense of fulfillment that comes from helping clients, and good pay. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and U.S. Department of Labor, the 2018 median pay for lawyers was $58.13 per hour or $120,910 per year. If you are aspiring to become a lawyer, start preparing even before you graduate high school. You can prepare through the following.
Work Hard in High School
The first step you should take is to work hard in high school and get good grades. Give it your best and get extra coaching if you are struggling in some areas. A good performance in high school will give you more options when it comes to choosing a law school. Thus, work hard and graduate with good grades.
Do Some Community Work
Being involved in community work can strengthen your college application and it also gives you better chances of qualifying for a scholarship. Also, volunteering gives you an opportunity to grow as an individual and learn some great lessons from real life experiences. If you can find a law-related community service project, that would be a plus. However, all community work is beneficial. Take what is available in your community.
Work on Your Verbal Communication Skills
Good communication skills are essential for a successful career in law. You need great skills to communicate effectively with your colleagues and clients and also present cases assertively in court. In high school, you can sharpen your communication skills by taking part in debates and drama. Taking leadership positions can also help in strengthening communication and public speaking skills. Don’t forget that good communication involves active listening as well. Thus, practice that too.
Consider the Finances
Will your parents pay for law school? Will you require a student loan? Talk to your parents about this early and save a portion of the money you get from summer jobs or as gifts from family and friends. Some ambitious law students even get funding from other attorneys who they’ve met at social events. There are several available as well as .