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SCS Home  >  Summer Session  >  Special Programs  >  Pre-Law Summer Institute

Pre-Law Summer Institute

June 22-26, 2009   Chicago, Illinois

If you're planning on attending law school, Northwestern's Pre-Law Summer Institute provides an exciting preview of what's needed for success. What you learn during this week-long intensive program can give you an important edge in the application process.

The Pre-Law Summer Institute, which is developed and taught by faculty of the Northwestern University School of Law, helps students 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 legal professionals and law school admissions officers to explore their futures in law school and 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 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 Pre-Law Summer 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!”

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.

Location and Accommodations

The Northwestern Pre-Law Summer Institute will meet from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday, June 22 through Friday, June 26, 2009. The program will take place at the Northwestern University School of Law in Strawn Hall 195 at the Robert McCormick building, located at 350 E. Superior Street on Northwestern's Chicago lakefront campus.

Public Transportation and Parking

The Northwestern University School of Law is located close to public transportation. Please visit the CTA or RTA websites to plan your trip.

Parking permits for the duration of the program (June 22-26) 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 5, 2009. You will receive an email on Monday, June 8 confirming 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 the June 5th deadline will not be fulfilled, and participants will be responsible for making their own parking arrangements.

Accommodations

There are a number of hotels in walking distance to Northwestern University School of Law, where the Pre-Law Summer Institute will be held. 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. Additionally, the School of Law has compiled a list of nearby hotels. Please make your reservations as early as possible to ensure the best rate.

How to Register

Online registration is available here.