Pre-Law 101
The Pre-Law 101 workshop series is the introductory program for students at Illinois. While it is open to any pre-law student, it is particularly relevant for those in their first four semesters of study. The Pre-Law 101 workshop series provides a comprehensive overview of the law as a career, legal education, strategies and goals for a successful pre-law plan, and the process of preparing for and applying to law school. Pre-Law 101 is a two-part series. Part I is a collection of on-demand webinars exploring specific aspects of the pre-law journey. Part II is a unique, live Capstone Session which includes unique perspectives from upper-level pre-law students, law students, pre-law advisors, and more!
PART I: Pre-Law 101 Webinar Series | On-Demand
Participants will begin by exploring the pre-law path through the Pre-Law 101 on-demand series. On-demand resources include webinars on specialized topics, featuring additional resources, peer perspectives, and more.
Part I- Webinars
- Academic Success & Readiness
- The Legal Profession
- Developing Skills
- Your Pre-Law Plan
- Application Basics
- The LSAT & More
PART II: Capstone Session | In-Person Workshop
During the Pre-Law 101 Capstone Event, attendees will engage with and gain unique perspectives from upper-level pre-law students, law students, pre-law advisors, and more! This session will explore the law school experience, discuss topics covered in the webinar series, provide unique networking opportunities, and offer the chance for participants to ask unique questions from experts!
Who Should Attend: The Pre-Law 101 workshop is open to all Illinois students and alumni who are interested in attending law school and pursuing a career in law. However, these sessions are specifically targeted toward students in their first four semesters of undergraduate study. Freshman students are highly encouraged to complete Pre-Law 101 in either the fall or spring semester of their first year on campus.
When is it Offered: Pre-Law 101 is offered in both the fall and spring semesters. Participants who successfully complete the Pre-Law 101 – Part I webinar series are eligible to attend the Capstone Live Workshop (Part II) at the end of each semester.
Application Roadmap
The Application Roadmap workshop provides a detailed overview of the law application cycle, logistical details for applying to law schools, an examination of application components, strategies for a successful law application process, suggested timelines, and a preview of resources and events.
Who Should Attend: Any Illinois student or alumni interested in applying to law school during the current or most immediate application cycle is encouraged to attend this program.
When is it Offered: Application Roadmap is typically offered multiple times each year, particularly during late summer, early fall, and late spring.
Drafting Your Application
The Drafting Your Application workshop includes live and on-demand sessions that will examine critical components of the law school application including personal statements, resumes, and addendums. The program will feature an overview of the individual components, strategies for successful drafting, a timeline for completion, and common pitfalls to avoid. These components are vital in helping distinguish you as a candidate and adding invaluable information to law schools’ 360 review of your application file.
Who Should Attend: All individuals planning to apply during the current or most immediate application cycle are strongly encouraged to attend.
When is it Offered: Drafting Your Application is typically offered multiple times each year in the fall semester.
Exploring Gap Years
Exploring Gap Years: Thinking about taking time to pursue opportunities before attending law school? Engaging in work, civic opportunities, fellowships, and more prior to law school can be an excellent way to gain important insight into your long-term goals, develop your credentials, and prepare to be a successful law student. Join us for a presentation that explores common ways applicants spend time prior to law school, the pros/cons, and discover if a gap year might be the right choice for you.
Who Should Attend: All individuals considering taking a gap year before attending law school.
When is it Offered: This workshop is typically available in the fall semester.
On-Demand Workshops
The following workshops are available annually on demand. On-demand workshops are accessed through the Pre-Law Canvas page. Some workshops may only be available during the fall or spring semester. Visit the Pre-Law Canvas page or email pre-law@illinois.edu to learn more!
- Application Workshop | Application Budget & Costs Video
- Application Workshop | Drafting your Law School Resume
- Attending a Law School Fair
- Letters of Continued Interest
- Navigating Post-Application
- Taking a Gap Year
Stay Tuned for the following upcoming 2025-2026 Videos:
- Understanding Law School Scholarships
- Selecting a Law School