New pre-law society unveiled to students

For University students interested in law careers, one of the newest student groups on campus should raise some eyebrows. At the inaugural meeting last week, society President Rosa Washington welcomed 20 new students to the newly-formed Sadie Alexander Pre-Law Society. The society, according to the Wharton junior, was established to assist students who are applying to law school. The group also educates members about the legal profession. "One of our purposes is, of course, to help get students into law schools," she said. "But we also want to teach students about law and help them determine if law school is the right choice for them." Washington said the need to have an additional pre-law society at the University was also a prime source of motivation. "The society was originally intended to function as a women's pre-law society," Washington said. "But since there was no African-American pre-law society, and no alternative to the John Marshall Pre-Law Society, I saw the need to form another group." The society has planned a series of events for the spring semester including a visit to a University Law School classroom and a mentor program in which students work along side University law students. The group also brings speakers from the legal profession to the University, Washington said. Last week's meeting featured Mary Lou McBride, a graduate admissions counselor for a local test preparation company. McBride stressed the importance of a strong liberal arts education, involvement in campus activities, and early application preparation. "You should regard your application as your first legal case," said McBride. "It should function like your attorney and make a strong case for your admission." McBride recommended that students maintain as high a grade point average as possible, that they keep a journal of all their written work, and that they work out an attack schedule for the admissions process. "Many law schools have a rolling admissions process," McBride said. "Therefore, the key to success is to have everything in by November 1st." In addition, McBride laid out other qualities that law school admissions officers look for. "Inter-personal communcation skills are very important," said McBride, adding that the admissions committees are looking for leaders who posses both initiative and determination. The society is open to any University undergraduate with an interest in the legal profession. No H&J; required. Do not bother inserting ! -- Michael Society president Rosa Washington welcomed 20 students at last week's inaugural meeting.