Introduction to Law School for First-Year Students

Professor Molly Bishop Shadel, Vice Dean George Geis and Professor Toby Heytens give first-year students advice about studying and acclimating to law school life as they head into their first week of classes. Topics include reading and analyzing cases, preparing for class, outlining, studying and exams. (University of Virginia School of Law, Aug. 19, 2016)

[attorneysteve]

Undergrad teaches you how to memorize and regurgitate. Law school teaches you how to think, analyze and resolve problems. You will forever see the world differently, and let me say, I loved every single minute of it.

[js]

12 mins in and this makes me not scared about lectures, this makes me want to do it. Looks exciting! :D

[lawzme]

This is a HUGE benefit. I attended law school about a decade ago and failed the bar exam. I am back to study for the bar and I must say, this lecture validates that I want to and shall make a go for it again. Thank you very much!

[shoelessb]

First professor on first day of law school told us "Law and logic have nothing in common".
Discouraging but entirely correct.
Especially since politicians are mostly lawyers.

[jayxproductions]

Idk what I’m getting into going to law school but what I do know is, I love learning about law. Currently in my 3rd year for pre law. Graduating in spring 2025! Wish me luck :’)

[IAmMomhousekeeperinhartfordct]

My father was a cop his whole life, age 21 until he turned 65. I find the law interesting, was a great subject to learn, I love it, sadly when my father was asked to be sheriff, they discovered he had terminal cancer and I gave up school to care for him. Learning helps, tho I cannot make it a profession at my age. But I can infuse it to my grandkids Thank you for these videos and the time you dedicate!.

[marlenerami]

The Socrates method is great because it keeps the students actively participating in class and since you don't know if the professor will call on you on a particular case, you must always be prepared for class.
A very good presentation.

[lalaland]

Not even a law student and here I am… fully intrigued 😭

[allthingstravon]

I’m 27 and planning to go back and finish my undergrad after having come to the realization that I hate chemistry and math and love politics and law. Hope to go to law school in the near future. This was so encouraging and inspiring and I was glued the entire time

[seemore......]

I‘m lawyer working difficult situations in Mogadishu, Somalia but proud to be lawyer and working for my people 🇸🇴

[emm]

I’m waiting to find out if I was accepted at law school here in the U.K. and I’m really grateful for these uploads! Yes, our law is different but I think these lectures help to get into the mindset. Thank you!

[duanestanford]

I’m extremely grateful to UVA for posting these fantastic lectures 🙌

[uneekapeters]

I will be attending law school shortly in the next month. This introduction video is useful in reference, to what I can expect from my first year in law school. Along with mentioning some guidance and helpful tips/tricks to proactively apply to case readings, first year studying, to do or not to do etc, . I would love to see updated videos, perhaps even lectures to further get an understanding of law school. Thank you for sharing!

[GwenCruz-nl]

I’m extremely grateful to UVA for posting these fantastic lectures . I’m extremely grateful to UVA for posting these fantastic lectures .

[Jingryl]

Even if you your not @ graduate law school it will not hinder you to think like a lawyer...self study and determination will not stop you from learning.

[mehakverma]

I remember reading “Abe Lincoln’s Hat” when I was a kid. That was when I first decided that I wanted to be a lawyer. September of 2023 I am attending law school in England straight out of highschool. Wish me luck!

[patriciafry]

I love this woman. Went to YLS from 1979-1972. This is so user-friendly. Trying to get students off on a sensible path, not trip them up. No such overview back in the day.

[ayebby]

I've never been to college, never thought about going to college, definitely never thought about going to law school. Yet here I am watching an introduction to first year law students solely because it was in my recommended.

[thesacredibis]

I.R.A.C. = Issue. Rule. Analysis. Conclusion. This will help with fine tuning your brief with clarity and being concise. Work in small groups. Law school is not a solo sport. Good luck.

[Booksurfs]

"law school is not like college" and i thought i had it hard as an undergrad..