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Summer NU | College Prep | Field Studies
SCS Home  >  Summer Session  >  Special Programs  >  Pre-Law Summer Institute

Pre-Law Summer Institute

June 23-27, 2008   Chicago, Illinois

Have you set your sights on law school? If so, Northwestern's new Pre-Law Summer Institute provides an exciting preview of what you need to do to succeed. What you learn during this weeklong intensive course can give you an important edge in the application process. Developed and taught by faculty of the Northwestern University School of Law, this Pre-Law Summer Institute helps students to sharpen their critical thinking and analytical reasoning skills and lays the groundwork required for success in law school and beyond. Students gain practical experience and have a unique opportunity to interact with professionals in the field of law and with law school admissions officers to explore their possible futures in law school and in the legal profession. Students who successfully complete the program are awarded a certificate of completion, a distinguishing credential that can be included in their application to law school.

This one-week noncredit institute introduces participants to five main topics: Introduction to the American legal system, legal writing (case briefs), analysis (rule synthesis), sources of law, and the components of oral argumentation. Throughout the week, panels of experts focus on the law school admissions process, tips for success in the first year of law school, and careers in the legal profession.

Here's what past participants have said about the Northwestern Summer Pre-Law Institute:

“Very helpful for those still debating about whether to enter law school…a good preparation for those already accepted and planning to enroll in the fall.”

“The class really helped to answer many of my concerns about the law and becoming a lawyer.”

“A good introduction to law school classes and the entire process--from applying, to schooling, to careers.”

“A wonderful experience, an excellent source of information.”

“All of the sessions were well-organized and presented in a clear, effective manner.”

“Made me feel prepared for law school...now I just need to get in!”

Schedule and Registration

The Northwestern Pre-Law Summer Institute will meet at the Northwestern University School of Law from 9:30 am to 4 pm, Monday, June 23 through Friday, June 27, 2008. Students must register for the entire program and not for individual sessions or days. The program will take place in the Levy Mayer Building Room 317, located at: 357 E. Chicago Avenue, Chicago Campus. Enrollment in this program is limited, so please register early to secure your space. Enrollment is permitted by registration in advance only. Online registration is now available.

Program Content:

  • Introduction to the American legal system
  • Judicial decisions and briefing cases
  • Cases and statutes
  • Admissions Panel: applying to law school
  • Introduction to rule development and synthesis
  • Comparisons and distinctions
  • Student Panel: success in the first year
  • Introduction to legal analysis and oral argumentation
  • Lawyers Panel: careers in the legal profession

Faculty:

The Northwestern Pre-Law Summer Institute is taught by Lesley Kagan, Clinical Assistant Professor of Law at Northwestern University.

Accommodations:

Numerous hotels are conveniently located with walking distance to Northwestern University School of Law, where the Pre-Law Summer Institute will be held. Rates vary based on the hotel and the timing of your reservation.Visitors can receive brochures, reserve hotel accommodations and receive trip-planning assistance by calling toll free 1.877.CHICAGO (1.877.244.2246) or visiting www.877chicago.com. Please make your reservations as early as possible to ensure the best rate.

Parking:

Parking permits for the duration of the program (June 23-27) are available for a separate fee of $60.00. Parking is available at either of two University garages on Northwestern's Chicago campus: the 222 E. Huron Self-Park designated as "Lot C", or the 321 E. Erie parking structure, designated as "Lot D". Participants who wish to purchase a parking pass must deliver their request, along with a check for $60.00 (payable to Northwestern University), to the Office of the Summer Session no later than Friday, June 6, 2008. You will receive an email confirmation on Monday, June 9, that your request was received. Only participants who are registered for the Pre-Law Summer Institute may request a parking permit. Please send or hand-deliver your request to:

Pre-Law Summer Institute/Parking Requests
The Office of the Summer Session
Northwestern University
405 Church Street
Evanston, IL 60208

Please note: Requests received after June 6 deadline will not be fulfilled, and participants will be responsible for making their own parking arrangements.