The idea of Law as a profession/course of study in Nigeria, has always been a very scary thought for law students. It’s no news that it is a thrilling yet challenging experience. In this post, we have meticulously distilled tips to help future lawyers navigate the hurdles of law school.
1. ATTEND EVERY CLASS: As a law student, it is pertinent you see yourself as a lawyer already. As such, there is need for you to learn how to think like a lawyer. Thinking like a lawyer goes beyond visualising oneself as a lawyer. From experts and lawyers alike, it is highly imperative that you attend every class in the law school. In attending every class, you will most definitely abreast yourself with how to read law texts.
2. A STUDY GROUP WILL DO: We have always heard of the perks of having study groups. Sadly, most law students still perceive themselves as lone wolves. Recently, I had a talk with a lawyer who just got out of law school. In his words, “Law school is a Jungle, any man who walks it alone will be devoured”
It is worthy to note that having a group of smart people as study buddies goes a long way in keeping one alert, as everyone has a thing or two to bring to the table. Of course, you do not want to mess yourself up in a group. This helps a lot when cramming for exams.
Study shows that one way to promote critical thinking is to make sure that you and your friends agree that when one of you expresses a “subversive” thought in class, the rest will support and try to push the discussion further.
3. JOT THINGS DOWN: Love your materials and write rather than type if at all possible. In one of my seemingly boring conversations with a lawyer friend, he told me how he bought over seven highlighters for ease of identification. There is a saying that the language of law is in writing. In my experience as a law student, writing keeps me connected to the lecture. Try it!
4. AVOID THE EGOS OF YOUR FELLOW STUDENTS: If there are anybody you’ll surely encounter in both the LLB programme and law school, it’s the show offs and know it sadly. In my little perspective, these people can be both unpleasant and motivating factors. Do not perceive them as a threat or smarter peoply. Learn from them and find your own tribe.
5. GO WITH GOD: Every high flying student believes in God effect.
By Eberechi Justice
For LEGAL PALACE
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