Mark Alexander, Incoming AALS President, Discusses the Changing Nature of Law School Applicants and the Future of Legal Education

Mark Alexander: Defending Democracy is the Theme for Incoming AALS Presidency
 
Mark Alexander, the incoming president of the Association of American Law Schools and the first African American dean at the Charles Widger School of Law at Villanova University, sat down with U.S. News to discuss the changing nature of law school applicants and the future of legal education. He shared that his theme for his 2023 presidency will be “defending democracy.” The interview, which took place at the association's first in-person conference in three years, has been edited for length and clarity. Alexander, who previously worked as a constitutional attorney and associate dean for academics at Seton Hall University’s School of Law, has occasionally spoken with U.S. News to share his insights and perspectives on legal education.
 
Q. Who should be considering law school these days?

A. Those who want to be a part of bringing about positive change in a world that has recently been challenged should consider law school. As our country has faced social upheaval, racial reform, insurrection, and a pandemic, lawyers are needed to lead the way in bringing us together and moving us forward in our democracy. It's important to remember that law school is a professional school, and the goal is to obtain a law license. So, it's important to consider what type of lawyer you want to be, whether it be a prosecutor, family law attorney, or something else. But in the bigger picture, it's crucial to be someone who is ready to make a positive impact in today's world.
 
Q. How has the pandemic affected the demographics and reasons for attending law school?

A. The pandemic has provided an opportunity for many people to take a step back and reflect on their goals and aspirations. With the pandemic coinciding with other major movements in the country, such as social justice and political upheaval, many students are applying to law school with an interest in understanding and contributing to the healing process of these issues.
We have seen a shift in the motivations of students, with more of them recognizing their role in society, the importance of defending the Constitution, and promoting the rule of law. This has led to an increase in students who feel called to take action to make a difference in society, regardless of their political beliefs. There is a growing understanding that lawyers can play a crucial role in society, and more students are now motivated to become a part of that.
 
Q. Reports at the conference suggest that more law students are choosing this profession due to an interest in racial and social justice. Is this something you have observed?

A. Yes, I have noticed that many students are entering law school with a desire to make a difference in the current state of the country and contribute to the change they want to see. They are motivated by the idea that they can "be the change" and the change they want to see may come in different forms, for example, racial and social justice.

Insight into the Future of Legal Education and Law School Admissions
 
Q. What is the future of using standardized tests like the LSAT in law school admissions?

A. The use of standardized tests in law school admissions is currently being evaluated by the American Bar Association, and it is uncertain what their final decision will be. However, it is clear that institutions will continue to question the most effective way to measure an applicant's qualifications for law school.

While the LSAT is a standardized test specifically designed for law school admission, it is only one piece of information used in the admissions process. Admissions teams also consider other factors such as the applicant's GPA, where they went to college, work experience, military service, and extracurricular activities. In my opinion, the LSAT provides a standardized measure for all applicants and is a valuable piece of information. However, no single factor will be the determining factor in the admissions decision. My preference is to have as much information as possible to make an informed decision.
 
Q. Has the recent Supreme Court case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization had any impact on the demographics or motivations of law school applicants?

A. The Supreme Court case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization is an emotionally charged issue that has motivated many students to pursue law school. It has been a significant motivator for students on both sides of the issue. As a dean, my goal is to prepare students to advocate for their beliefs in the next case like Dobbs, regardless of the outcome they desire. This case has been a significant motivator for many students who are applying to law school.
 
Q. What advice would you give to first-year law students?

A. I always remind students that law school is challenging, but it can also be enjoyable. Professors are not out to make things difficult, but rather they are training students to think differently and analyze issues in a new way. This process can be difficult, but it's important to remember that it's not just about learning more content, it's about changing the way you think and approach problems.

I also advise students to be prepared for a lot of work. Reading and outlining before each class is crucial and cannot be done at the end of the semester. It's important to be prepared to discuss the material during class and then reflect on it afterward.

But despite the hard work, law school can be fun. You will develop great relationships through conversations during lunch or while studying with classmates. I have fond memories of my best friends from law school.

Q. What else should potential law students be aware of before applying to law school?

A. Lawyers have the opportunity to be leaders in society. They are disproportionately represented in legislative bodies, as governors, presidents, and judges. They also hold leadership positions in major corporations, as general counsels and CEOs. Lawyers are also active in the non-profit sector and can be found in many positions of leadership across government and the private sector.

This is because law school trains students to think critically, analyze situations and problems, and find solutions. It's an opportunity for students to make a significant impact in the world and it's a noble profession that serves the community. Potential law students should understand the many leadership opportunities that the field of law offers.
 
REFERENCE:
Q&A: Where Are Law Schools Headed?
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-law-schools/articles/q-a-where-are-law-schools-headed