One of the first and most important things you should realize is that as opposed to college where you could get away with skipping class sometimes, in law school you must always attend your classes. To begin with, most professors are stricter and will dock your grade if you do not attend. But even if they do not, you will find that your classes are invaluable to your grades and your performance.
Listening to the professor explain a case or an issue is of the utmost importance so you can understand it fully. It also helps a great deal to hear how other students think and to debate matters with them. This will make you more engaged and will raise your ability to comprehend and digest tough questions and issues. Going to class is also important so that you learn exactly what your professor is looking for and asking for, leaving you better prepared for difficult tests and papers.
You should take notes whenever possible, and you may want to consider using a digital recorder to record the lecture. This will allow you to go back and hear the important points over again to be sure that you didn't miss anything. Many students today bring their laptops to their classes so they can type and save their notes. This is another effective tactic for making the most out of your in class time.
Another way that you can survive law school is by forming a study group. A study group will force you to actively participate in learning outside of the classroom. You and your group members can bounce ideas off of each other, teach other difficult things and even when necessary commiserate and vent. It's important to be able to get things off of your chest and to keep your emotions under control when your classes turn stressful, busy and difficult.
If you make a study schedule you will find that you will get much more accomplished. It is easy to lose sight of when a long paper is due or how much time you need to put into your weekly readings and assignments. However, if you make a schedule and stick to it you will be able to fit in all of your requirements much easier.
You also must seek to remove yourself from the learning environment on a regular basis. This means that you need to engage in other activities besides class and reading so that you don't drive yourself crazy. Getting enough physical exercise will help you feel better and eating healthy will also help you to maintain an increased focus and energy level. Seeking social situations involving both your fellow law students and people from outside of your law school will help to keep you fresh while diversifying your horizons.
While it's tempting to find a college dorm like setting to live in, this won't be very helpful for law school. You need to have an environment in which you can quietly study and focus on what you need to do. You also need to get adequate rest to ensure you are prepared to take on your classes and work.
Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Asking your professors questions about the material and the requirements will help them to get to know you while you get to learn the expectations and materials better. Asking other students, teaching assistants and current lawyers about various matters will also help you to succeed.
It's not impossible to survive law school, after all thousands of people do it each and every year. What you need to do is learn some solid tips and strategies to help you make the most out of your experience while reaching your complete potential. If you follow the above guidelines, you'll do well, you'll survive and you'll even enjoy yourself along the way.
