Law Fair Tips

Before the Fair:

• Look at the directory to find out which schools are attending so you can spend your time efficiently speaking with those schools.

• Research each school beforehand to learn the basics—programs, admissions requirements, median LSAT/GPA, tuition, and location. Avoid asking questions that can easily be answered online. Instead, use your research to prepare specific questions that lead to more meaningful conversations and help you understand what makes each school unique.

The Day of the Fair:

• Arrive early. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the event, check in, and locate the schools you want to visit.
• Visit your preferred schools first. This ensures that you have enough time to speak with the representatives who are most important to your decision. If time allows, visit schools you had not previously considered. You may discover a program that is a better fit than expected. Tip: If a local school has a long line, consider visiting it another day if you can easily arrange a campus visit or information session.
• Be prepared to answer questions. Admissions officers may ask questions such as “Why do you want to go to law school?” or “When do you want to start?” Make sure to think of answers to these questions beforehand.
• Ask for their business card. This is your opportunity to network with the admissions officer. Be sure to ask for their business card, viewbook, and any other information you would find helpful.
• Write down a few notes during or immediately after each conversation, especially anything distinctive about the school or representative. This will make it much easier to compare schools later and personalize your follow-up emails.
• Participate and enjoy. It is always important to make a good impression, but remember, this is not an interview. The admissions officers want you to ask questions about their schools. Take advantage of the one-on-one contact.

After the Fair:

• Follow-up with an email to the law school representatives with whom you had meaningful conversations.  Reference something specific from your conversation rather than sending a generic message. If you still have questions, this is also a good opportunity to ask them. 
• Arrange to visit the schools you put on your "short list".  Going on a tour and sitting in on a class are important parts of your decision making process.  
• Continue engaging with schools that interest you. Attend virtual information sessions, webinars, or other admissions events when available. Building a relationship with admissions representatives can also help you stay informed throughout the application process.