Break Into Law School

In this episode of Break Into Law School, host Shani Butts interviews Dean Sarah Zearfoss from the University of Michigan Law School about data transparency and the realities of law school admissions. Dean Zearfoss breaks down what applicants often misunderstand about rankings, employment outcomes, and acceptance rates. She explains how to interpret law school data accurately, emphasizes the importance of authenticity in applications, and shares why applicants should focus on fit instead of prestige. This episode empowers listeners to apply strategically and make informed decisions using facts—not fear.

In this episode of Break Into Law School, host Shani Butts sits down with Dean Tracy Simmons of Howard University School of Law to discuss wellness, admissions, and student success. Dean Simmons shares her personal and professional journey into legal education and provides honest, practical insights into the challenges law school applicants face—from increased competition to self-doubt. She unpacks misconceptions around rankings, scholarships, and rejections, and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, community, and fit when choosing a law school. With real stories of student resilience, Dean Simmons encourages applicants to seek support, stay focused, and pursue law school with clarity and confidence.

In this episode of Break Into Law School, guest host Shani Butts speaks with Michael Donnelly Boylan, Associate Dean of Enrollment at Roger Williams University School of Law, about the realities of holistic admissions. With over two decades of experience, Dean Boylan explains how every part of a law school application—GPA, LSAT, writing samples, letters of recommendation, and personal statements—works together to tell a candidate's story. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, resilience, and attention to detail over perfect numbers. The conversation addresses common myths, red flags, the growing importance of LSAT writing, and why schools are shifting away from rankings to focus on outcomes like bar passage and employability. Dean Boylan also shares insider tips on choosing the right recommenders, writing addenda, and using life experience as a strength in the admissions process.

In this episode of Break Into Law School, host Arturo Hudson welcomes back Issa DiSciullo from William & Mary Law School to discuss the anatomy of a strong law school application. Drawing on over 30 years of admissions experience, Dean Issa emphasizes a holistic review process, where GPA, LSAT, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and resumes are all key pieces of a candidate's story. She explains that law schools are looking for academically prepared, self-aware, and authentic applicants who align with the school's mission and values. Dean Issa offers clear advice on how to approach optional essays, personal statements, addenda, and resume-building—urging applicants to focus on growth, purpose, and honest storytelling over perfection. The conversation encourages prospective students to be strategic, patient, and true to themselves throughout the admissions process.

In this episode of Break Into Law School, host LoVetta Jenkins welcomes back Khevna Patel for a deeper conversation on building a professional brand, networking intentionally, and creating a supportive community before you need it. Kavna shares actionable tips on optimizing LinkedIn, including crafting an engaging tagline, leveraging recommendations, and using posts to highlight your values and interests. The discussion covers how to maintain meaningful connections, overcome social anxiety in networking, and use tools like AI to follow up with authenticity. Emphasizing the long-term value of community, Kavna reminds listeners that networking isn't transactional—it's about genuine relationships that fuel both personal and professional growth.

In this episode of Break Into Law School, host LoVetta Jenkins interviews Khevna Patel, a legal industry professional with over seven years of experience in talent acquisition, DEI, and HR. Together, they explore the importance of building a personal brand, especially for law students and young professionals. Kavna explains how effective networking, mindful LinkedIn presence, and proactive storytelling help candidates stand out. She shares actionable tips for following up after networking events, using social media wisely, and pivoting career paths with confidence. Emphasizing authenticity and long-term planning, Kavna encourages listeners to take control of their brand and leverage mentorship, community engagement, and self-reflection to reach their goals.

Sydney Montgomery, Executive Director of Barrier Breakers, introduces the organization's mission to provide accessible law school admissions support, particularly for students with financial constraints. She highlights the Barrier Breaker Scholars Program, which offers free one-on-one advising for LSAC fee waiver students, and the Law School Application Bootcamp, a structured 12-week program that includes expert-led sessions, essay revisions, and ongoing mentorship. Beyond admissions, Barrier Breakers fosters a strong community, offering networking opportunities, career guidance, and wellness support to help students succeed throughout law school and their legal careers. Through partnerships with law schools and sponsors, the organization continues to expand resources, ensuring aspiring lawyers receive the guidance they need to thrive.

Sydney Montgomery, discusses whether prospective law school applicants should apply this cycle or wait until the next. She explains the rolling admissions process, emphasizing that applying early increases acceptance and scholarship chances, while late applications are riskier. Many applicants, she argues, rush the process with subpar LSAT scores and poorly reviewed essays, potentially costing them significant scholarship money and increasing their law school debt. She suggests viewing the application process as a two-year journey—one year for LSAT preparation and another for crafting strong applications. Montgomery stresses that taking extra time can lead to higher LSAT scores, better essays, and relevant experience, all of which improve admission outcomes. She highlights the importance of financial planning, as waiting a year can reduce student loan debt and lead to better job prospects. Through real-life success stories, she illustrates how applicants who took additional time were admitted to top law schools like Harvard and Stanford. Ultimately, she advises applicants to wait if they are rushing or cutting corners, ensuring they present the strongest possible application for better long-term career and financial benefits.

In this episode of “Mindful Prayers for Students,” host Lovetta Jenkins discusses the importance of mindfulness in everyday life. Drawing from her experience as a mindfulness and meditation coach, she emphasizes that mindfulness goes beyond mere awareness of one's surroundings; it involves being considerate towards oneself and others, as well as keeping a focus on God. Jenkins encourages listeners to pray not only for themselves but also for those around them, fostering a sense of community and compassion. She highlights the significance of being mindful of our thoughts, actions, and what we consume, both physically and mentally. The episode concludes with a prayer for greater mindfulness and positivity, especially during challenging times.

In this episode, Sydney Montgomery, founder and executive director at Barrier Breakers, interviews three Black attorneys from Haines Boone about their experiences. They discuss challenges, successes, and the support systems crucial to their growth. Featuring Janet Wise, Sean Lewis, and Khalil Bryant, the conversation covers personal journeys, the value of the Black Lawyers Alliance, the firm's commitment to diversity and inclusion, and practical advice for aspiring law students. The episode also delves into the specifics of Haynes Boone's summer associate programs and offers tips on navigating the legal profession as a Black lawyer.

In this epsiode, Sydney Montgomery, Executive Director at Barrier Breakers, shares expert tips on excelling at law school fairs and LSAC forums. The presentation includes eight essential strategies for preparation, such as conducting pre-forum research, developing a strong elevator pitch, and asking meaningful questions. The advice also covers concise self-introductions, appropriate dress codes, strategic planning, the importance of attending workshops, note-taking, and follow-up communications to build relationships. Viewers are encouraged to demonstrate interest and professionalism when interacting with admissions representatives. Personal experiences and additional guidance are provided to help prospective law students navigate these events confidently and make meaningful connections, with an invitation to an in-person session hosted by St. John's Law School.

In this mini-episode of the Break into Law School podcast, Dr. Nadia Castriota, Director of Law Student Success and Admissions Advisor at Barrier Breakers, addresses common questions about law school applications. Dr. Castriota emphasizes the importance of optional essays in enhancing your application and providing a holistic view of your background. She also advocates for attending LSAC Law Forums and recruitment events as invaluable opportunities for networking and gathering crucial information about law schools. Throughout the episode, Dr. Castriota offers practical advice and encouragement for prospective law students navigating the application process.

In this episode, Sydney Montgomery, Executive Director and Founder of Barrier Breakers, offers invaluable advice on writing a compelling 'Why This School' essay for law school applications. Using an engaging analogy with 'The Bachelorette,' Montgomery explains how applicants can convincingly express their genuine interest and connection to a particular law school. She provides essential dos and don'ts, such as avoiding generic praises and ranking mentions, instead focusing on personal stories and unique value alignment with the school. The episode also highlights family ties, geographic reasons, and community values as key angles to explore. Montgomery concludes by sharing an offer for admission advising services, including a special discount. 

Mastering the LSAT: Strategies and Insights with Reggie Whitaker from LSAT Demon. In this episode, Sydney Montgomery, founder and executive director of Barrier Breakers, interviews Reggie Whitaker, a professional tutor from LSAT Demon. Reggie shares his journey from studying the LSAT in high school to becoming a top scorer and a dedicated tutor. They discuss key strategies for succeeding on the LSAT, particularly for marginalized and first-generation students. Key topics include overcoming financial barriers to LSAT prep, the importance of community support, adapting to the new LSAT format, and managing test anxiety and confidence. Reggie offers actionable advice on how to approach the Reading Comprehension and Logical Reasoning sections, emphasizing focused practice and understanding the test's framework. The episode aims to equip students with practical tips and resources to effectively prepare for and excel at the LSAT.

In this episode, Sydney Montgomery, founder and executive director of Barrier Breakers, discusses the process of drafting a personal statement for law school applications. She emphasizes the importance of starting early, especially due to the rolling admissions process, and recommends having three to six drafts for a strong essay. Sydney provides insights on how to outline, refine, and get external feedback, cautioning against having too many reviewers and stressing the role of good writing support. She also offers services to assist with the writing and application process.

Join Sydney Montgomery, founder of Barrier Breakers, as she breaks down key traits of successful T14 law school personal statements. Learn how to answer 'Why Law?' and 'Why Now?' through compelling stories, balancing relevancy and recency, and using strong transitions. Discover tips from real student examples and get guidance on making your statement stand out. Barrier Breakers focuses on first generation, minority, and immigrant students, boasting impressive acceptance and scholarship rates. Find out how to get support for your law school journey, including free resources and fee waivers.

Ever wondered what city clerks actually do? Meet Richard Vincent Hill, the Clerk of Courts for Youngstown Municipal Court, as he shares his journey and the vital role clerks play in keeping the city running. From handling criminal traffic cases to managing a $1.8 million budget, Richard breaks down the responsibilities and skills needed for this underrated but crucial job. Learn about his path to public service, the diverse functions of the Clerk of Courts Office, and the symbiotic relationship with the legal profession. In this episode, learn what it takes to be at the heart of a city's legal and administrative operations.

In this episode of Barrier Breakers, Sydney Montgomery dives into crafting a compelling personal statement for law school applications. Learn how to effectively integrate your accomplishments into your narrative without just restating your resume. Sydney emphasizes the importance of storytelling to highlight your unique experiences and passions, and shares practical tips on selecting which achievements to feature in your personal statement. Whether you're struggling to make your essay stand out or need guidance on structuring your narrative, this episode offers valuable insights to help you create a memorable and impactful personal statement.

We are joined by Nimat Lawal, a first-generation Nigerian-American and corporate counsel at O'Melveny & Myers LLP. We dive into her journey from Atlanta to Harvard Law, her unique experiences growing up in predominantly white spaces, and the pressures of balancing cultural expectations and personal goals. We also talk about her time teaching with Teach for America, the challenges of working in corporate law, and her passion for life and professional coaching. Nimat shares valuable advice on setting boundaries, maintaining authenticity, and building a life that is truly yours.

Struggling to manage ADHD in law school? Today, we delve into the challenges and strategies for success with expert ADHD coach and comedian Henry Lam. Henry shares his unique journey from accounting to ADHD coaching, offering valuable insights on diagnosing and managing ADHD. We discuss practical strategies for success, overcoming procrastination, and maintaining motivation. Whether you're about to enter law school or in law school, I hope this episode helps to empower you.

With our collaboration series with Legally Fit, DeAndré goes over the essential steps for processing midterm feedback. You'll learn how to leverage your midterm results to enhance your final exam preparation, focusing on strategies for multiple choice and essay exams. He emphasizes the importance of not just understanding the law but effectively applying it, with practical tips for consistent improvement. Connect with Legally Fit YouTube: @legallyfitstudent IG: @legallyfitstudent Website: legallyfitstudent.com Master The Subject: https://legallyfitstudent.com/master-the-subject-law-school/

Ever wondered how someone can become an undocumented lawyer in the U.S.? For this episode we are joined by Jazmín Irazoqui-Morales, Founder and Chief Executive Officer The UndocuLawyer Firm. Jasmine shares her personal journey from Mexico to becoming a lawyer despite being undocumented, highlighting the challenges and misconceptions around immigration status and legal professions. She also talks about support systems and resources available for undocumented students and professionals and overall advice for others in similar situations.

Today Nadia shares her personal journey and tips on applying to law school as a parent. As someone who pursued her PhD while raising two young kids, Nadia discusses the challenges and considerations involved, from financial aid and balancing responsibilities to finding support and maintaining mental health. Just because you are a parent, doesn't mean you can't go to law school.

Ever wondered how to tap into the underrepresented Hispanic market with your legal services? We chat with Hugo Gomez, founder of Abogados NOW, a national Spanish marketing agency for attorneys, about his innovative approach to help lawyers reach out authentically to Hispanic communities. We go over his journey in creating a digital-focused strategy based on Hispanic mobile behavior and the challenges he faced convincing traditional firms.

It's summer, and it's time to work on those personal statements for law school applications! For this episode, Sydney guides you through three key steps to craft a compelling personal statement. Sydney shares tips on choosing a guiding theme, using specific anecdotes, and the importance of outlining.

This month, Nadia tackles what it means to be two points below the 25th percentile for LSAT scores but above the median GPA, offering valuable insights on the holistic admissions process. She also discusses the advantages non-traditional, older students bring to law school and their potential success in the legal field. Submit your questions to us on our social medias or at bit.ly/breakintolawschool for us to answer in our next episode. 

Welcome to your 1L Club session! We're diving deep into midterms - how to prepare, manage your time, and learn from them. Get tips on balancing your study routine, creating effective day-of-exam habits, and reflecting on performance. Connect with Legally Fit: YouTube: @legallyfitstudent IG: @legallyfitstudent Website: legallyfitstudent.com Master The Subject: https://legallyfitstudent.com/master-the-subject-law-school/

With law school rankings fluctuating and more schools boycotting traditional ranking systems, how do you know what is a "good" law school? Sydney, offers advice on better metrics to consider like employability, bar passage rates, median salaries, and job prospects in the desired region. Today, we use the Law School Transparency website to help build a personalized law school list to figure what is a "good" law school for you. Resources Mike Spivey: myrankbyspivey.com  Law School Transparency: lawschooltransparency.com

We have the absolute pleasure of chatting with Haley Moss, who's not just an attorney but also a powerhouse public speaker, author, and advocate for people with neurodiversity. Haley opens up about her autism diagnosis at age three and her journey through law school, sharing candidly about her challenges and victories. Be sure to check out her book "Great Minds Think Differently: Neurodiversity for Lawyers and Other Professionals" for more insight.

Law school myths are everywhere and it's difficult to know whether they're true...or false. Today, Sydney addresses several myths surrounding law school that discourage potential applicants. She discusses the misconceptions about the necessity of specific undergraduate majors, age restrictions for law school applicants, the importance of LSAT scores and GPAs, and the affordability of law school, particularly the comparison between part-time and full-time enrollment. Do not limit yourself based on common but often misleading narratives.

We are joined by business affairs executive Ke'Andra Levingston about the legal intricacies in major TV productions. Ke'Andra shares her journey from being inspired by The Cosby Show to working at one of Hollywood's top talent agencies. Learn about the day-to-day life of a television business affairs executive, the role of a production lawyer, and the importance of understanding the business side of entertainment. Ke'Andra also offers valuable advice for aspiring law students interested in entertainment law.

We are joined by Dean Eulas Boyd, Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at Brooklyn Law School. We cover a comprehensive overview of law school financial aid, including merit-based and need-based aid, the financial aid process at Brooklyn Law School, and crucial tips on managing law school debt. Dean Boyd also shares important advice on building a list of target schools, the timing and application for financial aid, and navigating scholarships and loans. This episode is essential for prospective law students seeking to understand the financial landscape of law school education.

Writing addendums can be difficult to navigate. Today, Sydney explains the importance of being explanatory rather than excusatory, and emphasizes taking responsibility for your circumstances. Sydney also shares practical tips for crafting a concise and effective addendum that addresses potential concerns from admissions committees. Learn how to navigate your law school application with confidence, even if you've faced academic or personal challenges.

Soukaina Sourouri is the first Muslim Arab American president of the Staten Island Women's Bar Association. Soukaina shares her remarkable story, from navigating cultural and language barriers as the daughter of Moroccan immigrants to her challenges and triumphs in law school and beyond. Despite difficulties with initial LSAT scores and the COVID-19 pandemic affecting her bar exam plans, Soukaina's perseverance and support from her family enabled her to graduate debt-free and succeed professionally. Join us to learn more about her inspiring journey and her contributions as a leader in the legal community.

In this episode, we're joined by Anthony Denmark, founder of Becoming JD, a highly rated motivational speaker and strategic law school admissions advisor. Together, we delve into the vital topic of diversity and equity in law school admissions and the legal field. Anthony shares his personal journey to law school, and highlights the importance of representation and empowerment. From overcoming adversity to achieving dreams, we explore the challenges faced by underrepresented students and discuss strategies for fostering inclusivity and support within legal education and the profession. If you want to hear more from Anthony, make sure to register for our three-day FREE virtual conference at www.breakintolawconference.org/

  For today's Legally Fit episode, DeAndré delves into mastering multiple choice questions for law school and bar exams. He highlights the importance of becoming proficient in this format, regardless of whether it's a natural strength or weakness. This episode covers essential strategies, including understanding the role of multiple choice in final grades, recognizing the challenge posed by these questions, and developing a systematic approach to tackle them effectively. 

Dr. David Klieger from Aspen Publishing joins us today to discuss the new law school entry exam, JD-Next. Dr. Klieger goes over JD-Next program which is an eight-week, online course simulates a first-year law school contracts class, aiming to help prospective law students preview and prepare for the rigors of law school. Dr. Klieger shares insights into the program's development, its benefits, and how it addresses equity in legal education. Tune in to learn how if JD-Next might be the exam for you.

We are joined by Somi Umolu, an accomplished corporate lawyer, consultant, and entrepreneur, who will also be a panelist at the upcoming JD Alternatives panel for the Break Into Law School Conference this June. Somi shares her journey from working in big law to exploring various entrepreneurial ventures, leveraging her law degree to create a fulfilling career. Learn about the value of mentors, the courage needed to make career transitions, and the importance of building a life that feels good, not just looks good. See how a legal mentor can change your life.

We welcome Dean Vernadette Horne, the Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at St. John's School of Law. Dean Horne shares insights about her diverse career journey, from litigation to corporate communications, and the importance of transferable skills. She offers valuable advice for first-generation and minority law students, emphasizing the significance of community, networking, and utilizing available resources. She also highlights St. John's Law's initiatives to support students, including financial assistance, professional attire resources, and alumni engagement.

In this episode, Mecca Aikens, a second-year law student at Georgetown Law, shares her journey as a first-generation law student. She discusses how her parents' strategic savings plan and her father's military benefits helped minimize her educational debt. Mecca highlights the importance of networking, mentorship, and getting involved in extracurricular activities during law school. She emphasizes the value of seeking guidance from upperclassmen and shares her experiences as a student fellow, journal editor, and academic chair. Mecca also offers insights into the clerkship process and her aspirations to become a judge, aiming to bring more diverse voices to the legal profession.

Learn all the essentials of brainstorming for your law school application essays with Dr. Nadia Castriota. Nadia shares valuable tips on adhering to application guidelines, organizing your thoughts, understanding the purpose of each essay, and the importance of seeking feedback. Whether you're crafting a personal statement, diversity statement, or supplemental essay, these tips will help you present your best self to the admissions committee.

Welcome to another mini episode of Break into Law School with Dr. Nadia Castriota. This month, we're diving into the 509 report. One of our listeners asked how to read this vital document, which is packed with information about law school admissions, tuition, and employment outcomes. We'll break down what the 509 report is, where to find it, and how to use its data to make informed decisions on your law school journey. Tune in for a quick yet comprehensive guide to understanding this essential resource!  

Meet Alexandria Richards, the first Black Editor-in-Chief of Drexel Law Review. She shares her law school journey from aspiring family lawyer to passionate advocate in labor and employment law. She discusses her groundbreaking role at Drexel Law Review, highlighting the importance of mentorship, staying true to oneself, and embracing challenges. Discover Alexandria's insights on diversity, networking, and making history in the legal profession.

DeAndré is back with the 1L Club to dive deep into acing final exams, covering everything from prepping to post-exam strategies. DeAndré walks you through the essential steps to maximize your performance, focusing on understanding the law, developing test-taking skills, memorization techniques, and building confidence. From filling in knowledge gaps to managing test anxiety, DeAndré helps ensures that you're ready to excel during finals.

Significant changes are coming to the LSAT in August 2024. While much attention has been on the removal of the Logic Games section, there's also a new writing section to prepare for. LSAT expert Mena Pirone discusses strategies for tackling the evolving exam format and emphasizes the importance of clear, structured writing, outlining, and avoiding gimmicks in your argumentative essays.

Foolproof strategies to get through your 1L year successfully without a headache. In this conversation, Angela Vorpahl shares strategies and advice for students entering their 1L year of law school. From the importance of preparing practical life aspects to effective study strategies, to career development, Angela goes into depth on how to get ahead of the curve. Learn more about Angela's Beat the Curve bootcamp and be reassured that you have yourself prepared for a successful 1L year.

Feeling overwhelmed with finals, LSAT prep, and law school applications? In this episode, Cynthia shares invaluable strategies for balancing finals and summer with law school application prep. Discover study techniques, leverage on-campus resources, and learn the importance of early planning for success in your law school journey.

Today we dive into the fascinating journey of Chayla Sherrod, who transitioned from studying environmental science to becoming a first-year corporate associate at a top law firm. Chayla shares her journey from studying environmental science to pursuing a career in law. She discusses how her time in Namibia studying communal conservation sparked her interest in the legal aspects of environmental issues. She reflects on the importance of mentorship, routine, and adaptability in navigating law school and entering the legal profession and provides valuable insights into the realities of working in a big law firm and the challenges of balancing personal and professional life. Join us as Chayla shares insights into her inspiring journey and offers valuable advice for aspiring lawyers navigating their paths.    

Dive into the world of law school admissions with Dr. Nadia Castriota as she interviews Dean Tim Luczak from IU McKinney School of Law. They discuss the exciting programs at IU McKinney, focusing on the unique opportunities available in their part-time hybrid program. From personalized academic support to diverse concentrations and clinics, discover how IU McKinney empowers students to succeed in their legal education journey.

We are so excited to have Rebecca Petrilli from Themis Bar Review back to discuss essential strategies for law students to have a successful summer and prepare for the MPRE (Multi State Professional Responsibility Exam). Rebecca highlights the importance of the MPRE, offering insights into its format, scheduling, and preparation tips. She emphasizes Themis Bar Review's comprehensive and free MPRE course, which includes video lectures, practice questions, and more. Rebecca shares valuable advice on preparing for law classes, navigating professors' teaching styles, and maintaining self-care during law school.

Should you transfer law schools? Sydney highlights crucial factors such as grades, familial considerations, geographical preferences, social fit, academic interests, and career prospects that influence this decision. Sydney emphasizes the importance of introspection, journaling, and making informed choices based on your personal and professional goals. Offering practical advice and insights, she guides you through the transfer application process, encouraging thoughtful consideration and strategic planning. Join her for an insightful exploration of the challenges and opportunities in navigating the decision to transfer law schools.