Graduate Fellow
Law Career Development
When you think of “law school,” what do you envision? Many people would probably describe law school as competitive and stressful, and yes, in many ways, it is. The key to surviving law school is to find a balance that works specifically for you. This includes spending time with family, friends, and even maintaining a healthy relationship with your significant other (if you have one). Studying and networking is essential for a successful law school career, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle is vital to keeping one’s sanity.
Family
The unique thing about family is that they will always be there for you, through the highs and lows. However, this does not mean that you should take them for granted. As stressful as law school is, make time for your family. For example, do not forget your mom’s birthday or forget to thank your mom for making dinner when you are too busy to cook. The smallest gesture will be appreciated because your family knows that you are busy. Having your family’s support will not only relieve some stress but will come in handy when it comes around to final exams or studying for the bar. Make time for your family, and you will be awarded for your appreciation for them.
Friends
Do you ever feel guilty for going out and having fun with your friends? I did. My first thought was that I should be using that time to study. Although studying is important, you do not need to spend every second of the day doing so. It is hard to retain information when you are constantly stressed out, which may lead to you being burnt out. Taking a step away from the material you have been working on and doing something you enjoy will put things in a new perspective. That said, do not neglect your exams or papers, but if you are stuck writing a memorandum, do not use that time staring at the screen (which I am guilty of doing). Take an hour for yourself or grab some coffee with your friends.
Like your family, your friends will understand that you are busy as a law student. However, balancing a busy law school schedule does not mean that you need to neglect your friends. You should not feel guilty for spending time with your friends, just do not overdo it. Do not go to a concert or a party the weekend before exams. You will end up feeling stressed out and underprepared when it actually comes down to studying.
Relationships
Similar to the supportive nature of family and friends, relationships can be a source of comfort. However, relationships are different because they also require time and effort. When things are good, they can be really good, but when things start taking a bad turn, everything starts to go downhill. Whether or not you have to weather this storm, do not let your personal feelings affect your professional life. Life happens, but there should be a fine line between your personal and professional life. Once the two start colliding, your personal life will interfere with your professional one. But this is easier said than done isn’t it?
Shortly after I took the bar, my boyfriend broke up with me the day before I had a two-hour interview with a tech company. As I sat there contemplating whether to attend the interview, I was faced with two choices. I either come up with some excuse (i.e. I was sick, had a family emergency, etc.) or do my best to prepare myself for the interview. I chose the latter. I worked hard to get to where I am, and I couldn’t let my emotions get in the way of my career. I didn’t end up getting the position, but I appreciated the personal call I received from the company explaining their decision. That day, I learned that I had the strength to set my personal feelings aside and follow through with my professional obligations.
In short, make time for your family, friends, and significant other, but do not ignore your responsibilities. Life happens, but it should not affect your professional career. If you scheduled an interview or appointment, follow through with them. If you must, be professional about the way you handle emergencies. If you need to reschedule an appointment, do so beforehand. You should not wait until the very last minute or be prompted to explain why you could not make it to an appointment. Be respectful to the people around you. You do not know who will end up being your future colleague. Lastly, be mindful not to burn any bridges. Once burned, they are hard to rebuild.
