A lawyers first steps

Be prepared for starting "proper" work within the first week. The most surprising thing I found about law school is the sheer amount of reading that has to be done. Sure there are ways of breaking this up, and creating a "revision" schedule that you will follow every day for the next 3+ years of your life, is a great way to do this. But if like me, it gets to the first semester exams which slowly creep up on you until suddenly BAM! it's exam time and every second of your day is focused on Tort law. 

I promise next semester will be different and I will be creating the dreaded "revision" schedule so you can be motivated to do your own, but while you're figuring out whether Mrs McLoughlin satisfies the Alcock criteria, maybe you should also be looking at vacation scheme. Try looking at Grad diary for upcoming deadlines. I know, I know you have enough to think about right now but I have one sentence that will change your whole view on this situation... most of it is paid! As well as finding some work experience that will look great on your c.v. (Lawyerano can help with that!). 

Then as soon as that is out of the law it time to apply for a training contract... in your first year at university! I know its ridiculous but most top firms recruit 2 years in advance so that means the first year marks really do count. If you're lucky enough to have the choice, look for one that pays the LPC costs and gives you some money to live off. This can really lift a weight off your mind, as everything will be sorted for you. Although some firms specify that you must complete the LPC somewhere they choose, in my opinion its a little price to pay for the financial security while you study and train. It's more than likely you'll be moving to that area if they offer you a job anyway. Try looking at Law Careers to help choose which firms to apply too, concentrated and specific applications are better than general ones any day. 

After passing all of your exams with flying colours and winning law student of the year award (if this doesn't exist I'll be creating it) its time to complete the LPC, now if you were clever the firm who offered you the training contract will hopefully pay for the LPC and some living cost grants. This is great news as now you're almost a lawyer... in fact you're a trainee lawyer. Go You!!