Is Transferring Law Schools the Right Decision for You?
By Sydney Montgomery, Executive Director & Founder
Transferring law schools is a topic that stirs a lot of contemplation among students. You’ve just navigated the arduous law school application process, survived your first semester, and now, in your second semester, you're pondering whether to stay put or explore the possibility of transferring. Should you stay at your current law school, try for something different, or take the plunge and transfer to another institution? This blog will help you weigh the pros and cons, consider key factors, and make an informed decision about your next steps.
The Dilemma: To Transfer or Not to Transfer?
You've just navigated the arduous law school application process, survived your first semester, and now, in your second semester, you're pondering whether to stay put or explore the possibility of transferring. This is a pivotal decision, and I’m here to help you weigh the pros and cons. Let’s get started.
1. Assessing Your Academic Performance
Your first semester grades play a crucial role in determining your eligibility to transfer.
High Grades: If you excelled, you might feel empowered to stay or consider transferring to a higher-ranked school.
Low Grades: Transferring becomes challenging, but not impossible. Other compelling reasons could still justify your transfer.
Remember, your grades are significant but not the sole factor. Just like your LSAT score wasn’t the only determinant in your initial law school applications, your GPA alone doesn't define your potential to transfer.
2. Valid Reasons to Consider Transferring
There are several valid reasons you might want to transfer. Let’s delve into five key ones:
Family Reasons
Life happens, and sometimes, being closer to family becomes a priority. Whether it’s for children, a spouse, or other family obligations, this could be a compelling reason to transfer, regardless of your GPA.
Geographic Considerations
Sometimes you need to be in a different geographic area, either closer to family, friends, or simply your support system. If being geographically closer to your loved ones or a preferred location enhances your law school experience, it’s worth considering a transfer.
Social and Support System
The fit and support system at a law school are crucial. If your current environment lacks support for minority students, veterans, lower socioeconomic students, or doesn’t cater to your specific needs, it might be worth seeking a more supportive community. This can be essential for your academic and personal success.
Academic Specialization
If your current school doesn’t offer strong programs or resources in a niche area of law you're passionate about—such as tribal law, veterans law, or animal law—transferring to a school with robust offerings in that area can significantly benefit your future career.
Employment Prospects
Employment data and bar passage rates can vary significantly between schools. If your current school doesn’t support your career goals or has lower employment rates in your desired field, transferring might improve your job prospects post-graduation.
3. Evaluating the Transfer Process
While the reasons for transferring can be compelling, it's essential to consider the transfer process itself:
Community and Bonds: You’ll be starting over in a new community. Law school classes are small, and your new peers will already have formed bonds.
Leadership and Involvement: Investigate how the new school integrates transfer students into journals, leadership positions, and other activities.
Balance: Balancing the transfer application process with your current law school commitments is challenging and requires careful time management.
4. Strategic Transfer Applications
When applying to transfer:
Highlight Positive Reasons: Focus on why the new school is a better fit rather than criticizing your current school.
Showcase Your Achievements: Highlight what you’ve achieved at your current school and how transferring aligns with your future goals.
Conclusion: Make an Informed Decision
Transferring law schools is a significant decision that requires introspection and strategic planning. Here are some final tips:
Journal Your Thoughts: Reflect on your reasons for wanting to transfer.
Research and Network: Take advantage of virtual events, open houses, and direct communications with prospective schools.
Seek Professional Guidance: If you need help with your transfer applications, consider reaching out for professional advice and support.
I hope that this blog post gives you the clarity that you need to make the decision to transfer law schools!
If you’re trying to make your decision or know that you want to transfer law schools, we’re here to help! Learn more about our transfer student advising or reach out to us at hello@barrier-breakers.org.