Understanding Your Graduation Requirements as Early As 2L Year

Are you familiar with your law school’s graduation requirements? It may seem rather early to be thinking about graduation after all you’ve just completed in 1L year. But knowing these details will help you stay on track and accomplish any big goals you’ve set for your time in law school.

Take the opportunity now to review your graduation requirements to ensure you’re completing the required courses and fitting in classes that maximize your future plans. If you’re unsure of the specific requirements, the best place to look is your school’s website (typically graduation requirements will be listed) or visit the Registrar’s office at your school.

As you kick off your 2L year, here are a few things you may want to consider to make this year really count:

Be February bar eligible

You may not have thought about sitting for the February bar exam, but it’s worth understanding the requirements in case the opportunity arises.

Depending on where you’re planning to take the bar exam, many factors could change whether you’d be eligible for an earlier bar exam date. For example, in some jurisdictions, you need to be a certain number of credits away from graduation to be eligible. It’s important to pay attention to deadlines during your 2L year so as not to miss an opportunity.

Study abroad

If you have the chance to study abroad during your time in law school, it can be a truly impactful experience. Many students take advantage of a study abroad program in the spring semester of their 3L year.

Whenever you’re hoping to squeeze this in, a study abroad program will take careful planning. Not only will it be important to map out the trip itself, but to also factor in your graduation requirements and how a study abroad program will convert to your required hours/credits. Check with your school to understand the program options, deadlines and how to fit this into your schedule.

Participate in an externship program away from school

Externships are a great way to build experience, some even provide academic credit. There are a variety of opportunities, from established programs in large metropolitan cities such as D.C., Chicago and Los Angeles to local programs in your specific city. Utilize your resources, such as professors, school and legal organizations, and fellow classmates who have done externships as well as your school’s career services to learn what options are available and which ones suit your interests.

Wherever your upcoming semester takes you, we know you’ll do great, especially if you take the time to plan ahead. Here’s to an epic 2L year!