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Thinking About A Part Time Job? Ask These Questions Before Applying

Law school is an expensive investment for many.

In 2019, a law school education cost roughly $44,600 per year in tuition and fees, according to Nerd Wallet.

For many students, taking on a part-time job during law school can help reduce the costs and provide extra cash especially for those who don’t receive substantial financial aid.

Gabriel Kuris, founder of Top Law Coach and contributor at US News, recently outlined a few questions that law school students considering a part-time job should ask themselves.

IS IT WORTH TAKING THE TIME?

Coursework and campus activities make up a bulk of a law student’s day-to-day. In between those obligations, a part-time job may seem ideal.

However, Kuris advises students to ask themselves whether a part-time job necessarily is worthy given the high demand of coursework.

Full-time law school programs require tremendous focus and energy. To succeed in class, students must stay on top of dense reading assignments,” Kuris writes. “Taking on a distraction or new commitment can put you at a disadvantage, especially during the grueling first year of law school.”

Additionally, law school activities are a valuable opportunity for law school students.

“A legal clinic or student journal can provide entry points to future careers while social activities can lead to lifelong connections and friendships,” Kuris writes. “Even if a job does not conflict with schoolwork, consider the opportunity cost of time off campus.”

IS THE WORK LAW RELATED?

Kuris recommends that students apply for jobs that can offer some sort of law experience, if possible.

“Working as a research assistant for a law professor or center on campus may allow you to earn money while padding your resume and making professional connections, without taking as much time as an off-campus job,” Kuris writes.

WILL IT ADD TO STRESS?

When looking for a job, Kuris advises students to ask themselves whether the job they want to apply for will contribute or relieve stress levels.

“Law school can be stressful and intellectually exhausting, so it does not mix well with high-pressure jobs,” Kuris writes. “However, many law students have enjoyed finding part-time or piecemeal work that has nothing to do with law school, like freelance work, the service sector, creative pursuits or working with animals. Jobs with flexible hours can be a particularly good fit.”

Sources: US News, Nerd Wallet

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