Many undergraduate colleges and universities have pre-law societies. Though not required by law schools, many pre-law students elect to participate. Pre-law societies are student-run organizations that offer programming intended for aspiring attorneys and other students interested in legal studies. Through their participation with pre-law societies, students can attend campus events featuring local lawyers, judges, law school representatives and current law students. These events may help with development of networking skills, which will become necessary during law school and beyond. Pre-law societies also often provide workshops to assist students with preparation for the Law School Admission Test and law school applications.
Many students participate in internships or other employment programs while in college. Pre-law students may believe that internships with law firms or legal organizations can help them get into law school. However, the Ohio State University pre-law program advises students to carefully consider each internship opportunity's potential. Some law firms and legal organizations may reserve meaningful work for law students and limit the substantive work assigned to college-level interns. Rather, the American Bar Association suggests that students should look for any opportunities allowing them to demonstrate their academic strengths or personal interests, regardless of the field or profession.
The American Bar Association does emphasize the importance of public service for prospective lawyers. Furthermore, the Association suggests that students develop an understanding of social justice issues by aiding disadvantaged communities. Pre-law students can show their commitment to public service by choosing extracurricular activities through which they can serve their campuses and the surrounding communities. For example, the Cornell University Public Service Center offers many community service projects that students can volunteer with according to their personal interests. Students may wish to help with education, public health, women's rights or children's rights advocacy, elder care, mental health services and other areas. Some community service projects also provide opportunities for students to take on leadership roles.
No single extracurricular activity can guarantee a student's admission to law school. However, students should choose activities where they can develop and show their interests, strengths and leadership abilities. Many law schools accept recommendation letters written by professors or prior employers. Students who actively participate in campus activities or internships often widen their network of individuals who may be willing to write letters in support of their law school applications.