Florida State Univeristy College of Law Offers Undergraduate Students Inside Look at Law School

Press Date
February 1, 2013
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Assistant Dean Janeia Daniels Ingram

The Florida State University College of Law is accepting applications through March 29 for its 2013 Summer for Undergraduates Program. This unique program, taking place May 20 through June 13, provides college students a month-long, free look at law school and the legal profession.

The Summer for Undergraduates Program is the largest of its kind and has become a model for other law schools nationally during its more than 20-year existence. Over the four weeks, participants engage in daily classes taught by law professors, which familiarize students with the American legal system and the necessity of strong writing skills. Students also are exposed to sessions that provide various perspectives on what it takes to be admitted to law school, including a breakdown of the application process, LSAT preparation, and financing a legal education.

“Our approach is unique—we not only expose undergraduate students to the joys and delights of law school, but we also ensure that they leave with a realistic feel for the rigors and demands of legal education,” said Janeia Daniels Ingram, assistant dean for student affairs and director of the program. “Whether these students ultimately are motivated to pursue a law degree or realize that law school may not be the right path for them, we believe the program has achieved its goal of helping students move in the right direction.”

While the program is primarily academic in nature, there are enriching activities that take place outside of the classroom. Students will participate in mock oral arguments at the Florida Supreme Court and attend networking sessions with prominent attorneys from a variety of practice areas. They also will spend a day at the Florida Capitol and visit various courts and law firms to see the practice of law in action.

Maggie Amos, FSU student and 2012 program participant, said, “The Summer Program opened my eyes to the legal world and gave me an understanding as to what I will face as a law student and lawyer. This was the most influential and rewarding experience of my life to date!”

Thanks to the financial support of Florida State Law alumnus Wayne Hogan and his wife, Patricia, the law school provides free room and board, course materials and a $500 stipend to all program participants. Admitted students are responsible only for their travel expenses to and from Tallahassee. Since 1992, more than 900 students from approximately 150 two-and four-year colleges and universities have participated in the program. Half of them have gone on to enroll in law schools throughout the country.

Approximately 60 students will be chosen to participate in this year’s program. College students in all majors and from all backgrounds are invited to apply. Because one purpose of the program is to help students direct their remaining time in college to best prepare for law school, only students who have not earned a bachelor’s degree prior to the start of the program are eligible to participate.

Interested students can access an electronic application and more information about the Program online. Students from groups historically underrepresented in the legal profession are especially encouraged to apply.