August 15, 2019

Interested in a pre-law path at Drexel? Whether you’re still undecided or ready to start the law school application process, Drexel’s pre-law adviser Joanna Craig, JD, has advice for how to put your best foot forward before applying to law school.

First thing’s first: what is pre-law at Drexel?

At Drexel, we empower students to build their own personalized pre-law program by choosing majors, minors and electives that both interest and challenge them. The pre-law community is made up of students from across the University who are interested in the legal industry and potentially attending law school in the future. We gather together throughout the year to discuss recent legal developments, learn about different legal practice areas and prepare for the law school application process.

Can you share a bit about your background before becoming Drexel’s pre-law adviser?

Before joining Drexel, I earned my JD from Harvard Law School and practiced securities law for several years in the Washington, D.C. office of an international law firm. As a law school career counselor, I advised students and attorneys on career exploration and job search strategy before making the jump to working with undergraduate students. I enjoy using my expertise in the legal industry to help Drexel pre-law students achieve their educational and career goals.

What kind of support does Drexel offer pre-law students?

Drexel pre-law students and alumni have access to one-on-one pre-law advising and law school application assistance. They also have access to pre-law workshops, networking events, LSAT preparation, law school visits and other resources to learn more about the legal industry and law school.

How do I become part of the pre-law community?

It’s easy! You can just show up to one of our events or send the pre-law adviser an email at jjc424@drexel.edu to be put on the pre-law newsletter email list. The pre-law newsletter shares interesting developments in the legal industry, tips for staying on track for applying to law school and upcoming pre-law events on campus.

Any can’t-miss events on the horizon?

On Wednesday, October 9, 2019 from 4-7 p.m., we will be hosting 80+ law schools on Drexel’s campus for the Philadelphia Law Fair, located in Behrakis Grand Hall in the Creese Student Center. The law schools will be here to answer questions and recruit prospective law students. Students can stop by for as little or as long as they’d like to gather information, get application fee waivers, and demonstrate interest in law schools where they may be applying in the future.

Are there any common misconceptions about pre-law?

Many students believe they need to be part of a certain major or take a certain course of study to be pre-law – they don’t! It’s always a good idea to take courses that build skills that you’ll need in law school, including writing, research, critical thinking and oral communication, but there are no course prerequisites for law school admission. Law schools are most concerned with your grades and are looking for high academic achievement.

Any questions that you hear again and again?

Often students who are new to pre-law are looking for ways to connect with other pre-law students on campus. Students are encouraged to join the Biddle Law Society, an organization that allows pre-law students to connect for fun social events, community service opportunities and professional development. Students can connect with the Biddle Law Society by emailing BiddleLawSociety@gmail.com.

How can students figure out if pre-law is right for them?

Students can attend pre-law events, which include talks by law professors and practicing attorneys; volunteer with a legal services organization; and intern or co-op at a law firm, company’s legal department or government office. There are also a number of undergrad courses that can give students an introduction to the law.

When do you recommend interested students reach out to you?

Anytime! I am happy to meet with students wherever they are in the pre-law process, whether that’s still figuring out if law school is the right next step for them or preparing for the application process. Because the law school application process starts early, I encourage all students to schedule an appointment with me their junior year to create a plan for applying to law school.

How can Drexel undergrads find out more about the Kline School of Law?

Tours of the Kline School of Law are offered Monday through Friday and depart from the Admissions Office. Students can see exact times and reserve their spot on the Kline website. If students have any questions or need accessibility accommodations during their visit, they should always feel free to contact the Admissions Office at lawadmissions@drexel.edu or 215.895.1529.