Posted November 7, 2013 by
Tags: The Liberal Arts My Wheaton
Pre-Law Interview
To better understand the different programs at Wheaton, I recently interviewed two students, Elizabeth Schriver and Lauren Carini about their experiences within the Pre-Law program.
Alex: Do you have to major in a specific subject in order to be Pre Law?
Lauren: Not at all. For one thing, you can be part of the Pre-Law unofficial group without completing the Pre-law certificate. As far as law school applications, most majors are acceptable. If you have any idea what kind of law you want to practice, you might angle yourself according to those interests, but generally speaking, I would suggest doing something that you are interested in and passionate about right now.
Elizabeth: That is a great thing about Pre-Law. I am a Sociology major, but other Pre-Law students are Political Science, Philosophy, Business/Econ, English, etc.
Alex: Are you participating in any extra-curricular activities within the Pre-Law program?
Elizabeth: Currently I am working as a research assistant and a teaching assistant. I have had two internships with attorneys in previous semesters and was a member of Wheaton's Mock Trial team last year.
Lauren: I am participating in Mock Trial, which I have been a part of for my junior and senior years.
Alex: What is one of your favorite classes you have taken within your Pre-Law program?
Lauren: Honestly, I think that one of the most valuable components to the Pre-Law certificate was the opportunity to do a legal internship. As a Spanish major, that experience was some of the most practical exposure I got and really helped me to apply the basics that I was learning in class and get a real-world understanding of what I said I wanted to do.
Alex: Do you recommend taking any specific classes in high school that would help within your program?
Elizabeth: The skills that have been most helpful to me in the Pre-Law program have been the abilities to read critically and write clearly. Taking the time to develop logical reasoning and writing skills while in high school is a wise investment!
Alex: Do you have any advice to prospective students looking to be a part of this program?
Elizabeth: I would advise prospective students to take Professor Bretsen's Introduction to Law course as soon as they can. It is truly an excellent introductory course that will provide students with a taste of what other law related courses will be like. Further, it provides students with a chance to get to know Professor Bretsen, Wheaton's Pre-Law advisor.
Lauren: Take advantage of the opportunities offered to you. Professor Bretsen works hard at trying to make the program effective and engaging presence on campus. Avail yourself of the resources you find there. There are plenty of Wheaton alumni in the legal profession and many of them are only too happy to help you out where they can. Make those connections as often as possible.