Getting Involved
There are several ways of getting involved that can enhance your law school application and enrich your learning experience. The ABA Pre-Law Web page has a section entitled “The Values of Serving Others and Promoting Justice” that reads, “If you are thinking of entering the legal profession, you should seek some significant experience, before coming to law school, in which you may devote substantial effort toward assisting others.” The section continues by mentioning public and community service efforts as particularly beneficial. Law School Admissions officers stress that involvement is important, but that it doesn’t have to be law-related. Also, your extracurricular activities should not get in the way of doing well academically and preparing for the LSAT, the two primary factors in the admissions process. Instead, the main points are demonstrating a desire for community outreach and possessing leadership qualities.
Student Organizations
The Pre-Law Student Association is a pre law club that hosts a variety of informational meetings throughout the academic year. Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, Inc is also a Pre-Law organization highly beneficial to interested students. Check out their Web site to found out more. Undergraduate Student Association: The Undergraduate Student Association (SA) sponsors various academic clubs and social events. You can find hundreds of different social and academic clubs here that might be of interest to you.
Internship Opportunities
Your academic department may have relevant internships, directed studies, research opportunities, and practica available. This is a good first place to start.
Career Services have an updated database with various law and political internship opportunities. Contact Wayne Porterfield within the Career Services office to be given a tour of the process.
Public Service Internship Program (PSIP)
Cora P. Maloney College: The Public Service Internship Program (PSIP) is a practicum that provides university students with the opportunity to gain direct exposure to and practical experience from a diverse range of public, private, government or community service agencies and businesses. Internships are offered for junior and senior undergraduates from all academic disciplines.
Legal Research Experience
Group Legal Services is a student run service that works to provide UB students with access to free legal advice. GLS seeks volunteer student researchers who are interested in legal topics related to the University community.
Leadership Training
The Leadership Development Resource Center has a variety of resources to help students develop and enhance their leadership skills. Speak topics include communication skills, conflict management and public speaking.