Assessing Law Schools for Admits During Coronavirus

Law schools across the nation have closed up campus amidst the Coronavirus outbreak.

For law applicants, that makes campus visits essentially impossible.

Ilana Kowarski, a reporter at US News, recently discussed how applicants can still choose a law school while social distancing.

VIRTUAL CLASS SIT-INS

Experts say one way for law applicants to learn more about a law school is to sit in on virtual classes.

Andrew Strauss, dean of the University of Dayton School of Law, tells US News that virtual admitted student events are good way to better understand what a law school can offer without physically visiting the campus.

REACH OUT TO STUDENTS AND FACULTY

While admits most likely won’t be able to meet in-person with students and faculty, experts recommend still reaching out to have a conversation.

“Connecting with students and faculty through phone, email, or virtual events, still gives prospective students a window into the community they will be joining, what classes are like, and what resources, experiences, and support are available to them,” Barbara Ayars, associate dean for admissions at Widener University-Delaware, tells US News.

DON’T RELY SOLELY ON NUMBERS

While visiting campuses will be difficult during this time, experts advise against applicants making decisions solely on rankings and employment numbers.

Rather, Austen Parrish, dean of the Indiana University-Bloomington Maurer School of Law, tells US News that applicants should seek out a law school that provides the best preparation and curriculum for the law career you want to pursue.

When it’s all said and done, making a decision comes down to value.

“At the end of the day, this is a value proposition, and you’re giving them a lot of money, and you’re going to be giving them your time and your tears and your talent,” Victoria Turner Turco, founder and president of the Turner Educational Advising admissions consulting firm, tells US News. “And on the return end, they’re going to be giving you a professional degree and (will) train you to go out into the world.”

Sources: US News, Tipping the Scales