Break Into Law School®
Sydney Montgomery, a law school admissions advisor specializing in working with first-generation and minority applicants, is herself a first-generation graduate of Princeton and Harvard Law School. Through Barrier Breakers® Admissions Advising, she and her team have helped 7,000 students gain admission to law school. This podcast will help you break down generational barriers so that you can step confidently into your dreams and become an attorney. Have a question you want to be answered? Submit questions at bit.ly/breakintolawschool
info_outline
151. Should You Transfer Law Schools?
04/24/2024
151. Should You Transfer Law Schools?
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.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30793018
info_outline
Mini-Episode 3: Law School Admissions Q&A with Dr. Nadia Castriota
04/20/2024
Mini-Episode 3: Law School Admissions Q&A with Dr. Nadia Castriota
For this month's mini Q&A, Dr. Nadia Castriota, emphasizes the importance of considering various factors like ranking, scholarship offers, personal priorities, and the waitlist dilemma. Submit your questions to our social media or through bit.ly/breakintolawschool.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30836913
info_outline
150. Practicing Law School Essays: When, How, Why with Legally Fit
04/19/2024
150. Practicing Law School Essays: When, How, Why with Legally Fit
In our second installment of the 1L club session, DeAndré talks all about practice essays and guiding viewers through the essential steps to excel in law school exams. This session emphasizes the importance of practice essays in achieving success and demystifies the process of when, how, and why to practice. With practical tips on reading, thinking, outlining, and writing essays, learn how to approach practice exams as opportunities for learning and improvement rather than performance indicators. Strategies include annotating fact patterns, prioritizing issues, and comparing answers to sample solutions for effective feedback.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30736163
info_outline
149. How To Maximize Your Law School Application with Washington & Lee Law School
04/17/2024
149. How To Maximize Your Law School Application with Washington & Lee Law School
We welcome Anna Fernandez, Assistant Director of Community and Recruitment at Washington and Lee Law School, for an insightful discussion on navigating the law school admissions process. As an advocate for diversity and inclusion, Anna shares valuable insights and strategies tailored to first-generation and minority applicants. Discover how Washington and Lee Law School supports its students, fosters a supportive community, and offers unique opportunities for experiential learning. Whether you're a prospective applicant or a current student, this episode offers invaluable advice for succeeding in the competitive world of law school admissions.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30637653
info_outline
148. The 2024 Law School Rankings: Do They Matter?
04/13/2024
148. The 2024 Law School Rankings: Do They Matter?
Sydney and Mike Spivey discuss the latest law school rankings and their implications. As the rankings fluctuate year after year, they delve into the question of whether rankings truly matter and how applicants should approach them. Mike Spivey shares insights from his extensive experience in law school admissions, highlighting the changing dynamics of rankings and their impact on the legal profession. They explore the challenges faced by first-generation and minority applicants, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond rankings to make informed decisions about law school choices. The discussion also touches on the evolving role of rankings in legal education and potential future trends in the industry.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30788638
info_outline
147. Exploring the Non-Traditional & Part-Time Law Student Life
04/12/2024
147. Exploring the Non-Traditional & Part-Time Law Student Life
We are joined by D'Mia Spivey, a part-time 1L student at Loyola University Chicago Law School and full-time officer in the U.S. Navy. D'Mia shares her unique journey of balancing military service with pursuing her dream of attending law school. From receiving a full-ride scholarship through ROTC to managing a demanding schedule, D'Mia's story is one of dedication and perseverance. D'Mia's inspiring words and affirmations serve as motivation for anyone facing challenges in their academic or professional pursuits.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30588883
info_outline
146. What to Do While Waiting for Decisions
04/10/2024
146. What to Do While Waiting for Decisions
What do you do during while waiting for law school decisions? Whether you applied early in the cycle or later, Sydney offers advice on how to navigate the uncertainty of awaiting admissions decisions. She emphasizes the importance of patience, checking application statuses, and providing meaningful updates if necessary. Sydney also addresses how to handle deposit deadlines if you receive admission offers from multiple schools.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30675408
info_outline
145. The Role of a Life Sciences Licensing Attorney: Meet DéJeune Antoine
04/05/2024
145. The Role of a Life Sciences Licensing Attorney: Meet DéJeune Antoine
The episode features DéJeune Antoine, a life sciences licensing attorney, who shares her inspiring journey of blending her passions for law, business, and healthcare into a cohesive career path. DéJeune pursued a JD MBA, where she discovered the role of a life sciences licensing attorney—a position that perfectly aligned with her diverse skill set and interests. Through internships and informational interviews, DéJeune honed in on her career path, ultimately finding fulfillment in facilitating contracts between pharmaceutical and biotech companies. Her story emphasizes the power of resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of diversity in the legal field, particularly within life sciences licensing.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30525118
info_outline
144. Diversity Initiatives in Legal Education with William & Mary Law School
04/03/2024
144. Diversity Initiatives in Legal Education with William & Mary Law School
Dr. Nadia Castriota has the pleasure to interview Dean Korey Mercer from William & Mary Law School for today's episode. They discuss various aspects of law school admissions, with a focus on supporting BIPOC and underrepresented student groups. Dean Mercer shares insights into his journey in law school admissions and highlights initiatives at William & Mary aimed at diversity and inclusion. They discuss the importance of starting early, seeking mentorship, and maintaining professionalism throughout the application process.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30507658
info_outline
143. Life in the Legal Field as a Muslim Lawyer with Amani Taha
03/29/2024
143. Life in the Legal Field as a Muslim Lawyer with Amani Taha
We are joined by Amani Taha, a corporate lawyer, as she shares her journey of advocating for herself and her community as a minority in the legal field. Growing up in a conservative Muslim community, Amani navigated cultural shocks and stereotypes, ultimately thriving in diverse environments. She discusses challenges she faced, such as balancing her faith with professional expectations. However, Amani emphasizes the importance of speaking up and advocating for accommodations based on religious beliefs. She highlights the significance of affinity bar associations like the New Jersey Muslim Lawyers Association, offering support and mentorship to minority lawyers. Amani encourages others to embrace their identities, be the first in their communities, and not be afraid to speak out for their needs. Through her experiences, she underscores the power of representation and support networks in paving the way for future generations of diverse lawyers.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30404133
info_outline
142. How to Manage Law School Scholarship Negotiations
03/27/2024
142. How to Manage Law School Scholarship Negotiations
In this episode Dr. Nadia Castriota delves into the crucial topic of scholarship negotiations. As law school applicants navigate the admissions process, the financial aspect often adds stress. Dr. Castriota emphasizes the importance of early financial planning to alleviate future concerns. Dividing the scholarship negotiation process into research, preparation, and strategic communication, she offers valuable insights. Through thorough research into each law school's scholarship process and requirements, applicants can better position themselves. Preparation involves crafting compelling requests, adhering to instructions, and initiating respectful communication with the law school. Dr. Castriota stresses the significance of flexibility and mutual understanding throughout the negotiation process.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30381978
info_outline
141. The Law School Essay Writing Formula with Legally Fit
03/22/2024
141. The Law School Essay Writing Formula with Legally Fit
We're thrilled to announce our latest collaboration with DeAndré Aubry from Legally Fit! Get ready for a whole new level of content as we team up to bring you valuable insights, tips, and knowledge, all courtesy of Legally Fit. In this 1L Club Session DeAndré discusses the keys to essay writing in law school. When it comes to essay writing, you want to make sure you are appealing to your professor's writing style, while ensuring you have all the right components. We demonstrate how to organize your essay in a concise and effective manner to make sure you are crushing those midterms and final exams.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30352043
info_outline
140. What to Know About Taking the GRE for Law School Admissions with ETS
03/20/2024
140. What to Know About Taking the GRE for Law School Admissions with ETS
In this episode, LoVetta delves into the world of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) with Colby Carter, the Associate Director of Global Higher Education at Educational Testing Service. Colby shares his personal journey into the field of law and his role in assisting law schools with test assessment strategies. The GRE, a standardized test commonly used for graduate program admissions, has gained traction in law school admissions since 2016. Colby discusses the structure of the GRE, recent changes to the test format, and its focus on assessing analytical, verbal, and quantitative skills. The conversation touches on the benefits of the GRE, including increased flexibility for applicants and the growing acceptance of the test by law schools.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30312808
info_outline
Mini-Episode 2: Law School Admissions Q&A with Dr. Nadia Castriota
03/16/2024
Mini-Episode 2: Law School Admissions Q&A with Dr. Nadia Castriota
In today's Q&A episode, Dr. Nadia Castriota tackles two important topics: writing addendums and choosing scholarship awards. The first question delves into the concerns of an international student placed on a law school waitlist, particularly regarding the visa acquisition process.The second question pertains to writing a character and fitness addendum for an active court case. Through thoughtful insights and practical advice, Dr. Castriota provides valuable guidance to listeners navigating the complex journey of law school admissions. Submit your questions to our social media or through bit.ly/breakintolawschool.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30265568
info_outline
139. Managing Finances as a Law School Student with an LGBTQ+ Focus
03/15/2024
139. Managing Finances as a Law School Student with an LGBTQ+ Focus
In this episode, LoVetta delves into the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and financial planning with guest Andrew Gilliland. Andrew highlights the unique challenges and opportunities faced by the LGBTQ+ community in financial planning, including the need for greater protection, awareness of cash flow, and ethical investing. Andrew also offers insights for law students, discussing strategies for managing student loans and building financial stability during and after law school. Throughout the conversation, the importance of empowerment, self-awareness, and advocacy in financial decision-making shines through, as Andrew encourages listeners to take control of their financial futures. Andrew's website, Gillilandfinance.com, offers resources for those seeking further information and assistance in financial planning.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30262068
info_outline
138. Best Practices for College Athletes Applying to Law School
03/13/2024
138. Best Practices for College Athletes Applying to Law School
In this episode, Sydney discusses the best practices for college athletes applying to law school, addressing the concerns and worries athletes may have. Sydney reassures the listener that being a student athlete is not a drawback; in fact, law schools value the discipline, determination, and unique experiences that come with such dedication to athletics. She discusses how to showcase these qualities in personal statements, diversity statements, or supplemental essays, emphasizing that being an athlete can be a significant asset in the law school application process. Sydney also provides insights into addressing GPA concerns related to time commitments in sports and highlights successful examples of athletes incorporating their experiences into their law school narratives. Overall, the episode aims to guide student athletes through the application process and emphasizes the value they bring to law school communities.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30247478
info_outline
137. Putting Together Strong Letters of Continued Interest
03/06/2024
137. Putting Together Strong Letters of Continued Interest
In this episode, Cynthia provides valuable insights and guidance for students placed on law school waitlists. Cynthia emphasizes the importance of viewing the waitlist as an opportunity to re-engage with the dream school and maximize chances of acceptance. She discusses crafting a compelling letter of continued interest, highlighting gratitude, reaffirming interest in remaining on the waitlist, articulating reasons for choosing the specific law school, and providing meaningful updates. Rivera emphasizes sincerity, professionalism, and avoiding negative tones or dishonesty in communications with admissions committees. Overall, the episode offers a structured approach to navigating the waitlist process and emphasizes proactive engagement with law school admissions.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30103993
info_outline
136. The Path from Lawyer to Human Design: Meet CEO Jacques Anderson
03/01/2024
136. The Path from Lawyer to Human Design: Meet CEO Jacques Anderson
In this episode LoVetta with Jacques Anderson, the founder and CEO of Lean Into Your Design, a human-centered coaching and consulting business. Jacques shares her journey from law school to corporate attorney, highlighting the importance of human design in understanding oneself beyond societal expectations.Through examples and insights, Jacques elucidates the different human design types—manifestors, generators, manifesting generators, projectors, and reflectors—and how they can navigate their careers and lives more authentically by understanding their unique design. She emphasizes the value of self-awareness and leveraging individual strengths to minimize burnout and align with one's true purpose. Providing practical tips and resources, Jacques encourages listeners to explore human design as a tool for personal growth and fulfillment beyond traditional career paths.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30076368
info_outline
135. LSAT Changes, GRE, & JD-Next: What You Need To Know with LSAT Unplugged
02/28/2024
135. LSAT Changes, GRE, & JD-Next: What You Need To Know with LSAT Unplugged
In this insightful episode, we are joined by Steve Schwartz, founder and CEO of LSAT Unplugged, to discuss the evolving landscape of the LSAT and its implications for aspiring law students. They delve into the upcoming changes to the LSAT, including the removal of the logic games section and the introduction of the JD-Next exam. Steve provides valuable advice for navigating these changes, emphasizing the importance of understanding the test's fundamentals, focusing on common question types, and developing personalized study plans. They also explore alternative options like the GRE and JD-Next, reflecting on their potential impact on law school admissions. Throughout the discussion, they underscore the LSAT's role as just one factor in the admissions process, encouraging perseverance and exploration of various preparation strategies.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/30069998
info_outline
134. What To Do During a Law School Gap Year
02/21/2024
134. What To Do During a Law School Gap Year
In this episode, Dr. Castriota explores the concept of taking a gap year before law school. She discusses the various reasons individuals may opt for a gap year, emphasizing the importance of personal growth, professional development, and exploration during this time. She addresses common questions about how admissions committees interpret gap years and highlights the significance of the decisions made during this period. She provides insights into potential activities during a gap year, such as gaining work experience, pursuing further education, or engaging in law school preparation. The episode emphasizes the value of storytelling in the application process, encouraging applicants to share their experiences and personal development during the gap year to enhance their law school applications.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/29889908
info_outline
Mini-Episode: Law School Admissions Q&A with Dr. Nadia Castriota
02/17/2024
Mini-Episode: Law School Admissions Q&A with Dr. Nadia Castriota
Dr. Nadia Castriota introduces a new Q&A segment aimed at addressing listener questions. Today's focus is on navigating scholarship awards and writing addendums for law school applications. If you have a question you want answered, you can submit your question to bit.ly/breakintolawschool or message us on Instagram or Tik Tok @BreakIntoLawSchool for your chance to have it answered on this show.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/29982148
info_outline
133. Survivor 45 Finalist & Civil Rights Lawyer: Katurah Topps’ Journey
02/16/2024
133. Survivor 45 Finalist & Civil Rights Lawyer: Katurah Topps’ Journey
Known for her appearance on Survivor Season 45, civil rights attorney Katurah Topps, shares her extraordinary life journey. Raised in a religious cult, she escaped at 14, defied societal norms, and became a successful civil rights lawyer. Katurah discusses her Survivor experience, emphasizing the importance of representation and her commitment to empowering marginalized voices. Her resilience, despite adversity, serves as inspiration for others considering paths in law or advocacy. Join us as we delve into her Survivor experience, the challenges she faced, and her ongoing dedication to civil rights.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/29833343
info_outline
132. Best Practices for Law School Admissions Interviews
02/13/2024
132. Best Practices for Law School Admissions Interviews
In this episode, Cynthia shares six best practices for law school admission interviews. She emphasizes the importance of researching the law school thoroughly, knowing one's application materials inside and out, practicing common interview questions authentically, and demonstrating professionalism during the interview, including punctuality and a tidy workspace. She encourages applicants to connect with interviewers on a personal level, emphasizing authenticity and honesty. She also advises applicants to prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewer that go beyond basic information available on the school's website. Throughout, she stresses the significance of being genuine and confident during the interview process to effectively communicate one's fit for the law school.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/29811648
info_outline
131. Applying to Law School with ADHD
02/07/2024
131. Applying to Law School with ADHD
In this episode, Sydney discusses navigating the law school application process with ADHD. Reflecting on her own diagnosis at 26, Sydney shares challenges faced during college and law school, emphasizing the importance of seeking support. She outlines three crucial elements for success: clear timelines and deadlines, organized planning, and accountability. She encourages individuals with ADHD to explore accommodations for exams like the LSAT, emphasizing the value of embracing ADHD as a superpower in legal careers. With empathy and insight, Sydney offers guidance and support for those navigating the law school journey with ADHD.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/29711123
info_outline
130. Strategies for Success in Big Law Recruiting with Summer Associate Hub
02/02/2024
130. Strategies for Success in Big Law Recruiting with Summer Associate Hub
In this episode, we dive into the world of networking and big law recruiting with Albert Tawil, Founder and CEO of Lateral Hub and Summer Associate Hub. From practical advice on networking, resumes, and on-campus interviews to the evolving landscape of 2L Big Law recruiting, Albert provides a roadmap for success. Discover the importance of building genuine connections, the significance of team dynamics over the firm itself, and the unexpected paths a legal career can take.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/29699843
info_outline
128. Guide to the Law School Application Timeline for First-Gen and Minority Students
01/24/2024
128. Guide to the Law School Application Timeline for First-Gen and Minority Students
In this episode, Sydney discusses the ideal timeline for preparing your law school applications. She emphasizes the importance of early preparation and offers tips on solidifying your reasons for pursuing law school, exploring practice areas, and researching LSAT prep options. She also highlights the significance of strategic LSAT preparation based on the removal of the logic games coming this June. The goal is a smooth application process leading to acceptance letters in the fall, allowing for scholarship negotiations and thoughtful decision-making. Watch to learn how to navigate the law school application journey with confidence and success.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/29539953
info_outline
129. Key Support Services Every Law School Applicant Should Seek
01/24/2024
129. Key Support Services Every Law School Applicant Should Seek
In this episode, Dr. Nadia Castriota discusses the crucial topic of student support and services in law schools. Drawing from her experience as a dean of admissions, Dr. Castriota emphasizes the importance of understanding the various resources available to law students. She delves into key areas such as academic support, advising, mental health resources, and opportunities outside the classroom. The episode serves as a valuable guide for individuals navigating the complexities of law school, offering insights into the multifaceted support systems that contribute to a student's overall success.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/29620143
info_outline
127. Managing Stress and Burnout During 3L Spring with Themis Bar Review
01/19/2024
127. Managing Stress and Burnout During 3L Spring with Themis Bar Review
Today we are joined with Rebecca Petrilli, a attorney and Themis Sales Director to discuss burnout. Rebecca shares her insights into recognizing signs of burnout, its connection to anxiety, and strategies to prevent or combat it. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, effective study methods tailored to individual learning styles, and the comprehensive resources offered by Themis Bar Review for law students and bar exam candidates. Rebecca also highlights the significance of preparation and the need to create a balance to navigate the challenges of law school successfully. The episode serves as a valuable guide for law students, offering practical advice on maintaining well-being and optimizing study techniques. Learn more about Themis Bar Review: https://www.themisbarsocial.com/
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/29421178
info_outline
126. The Benefits of LL.M Programs with St. Thomas University
01/17/2024
126. The Benefits of LL.M Programs with St. Thomas University
In this episode, we have the privilege of hosting Dr. Roza Pati, the Co-Director of the Master of Laws (LLM) and Juris Doctorate (JSD) programs in Intercultural Human Rights at St. Thomas University, Benjamin L. Crump College of Law. Learn about St. Thomas Law's unique LLM program as Dr. Pati discusses the application process, eligibility requirements, and the importance of a genuine commitment to human rights. If you're considering pursuing an LLM, gain insights into the misconceptions about the application process and how St. Thomas Law works to dispel them. Also explore the program's commitment to diversity and support for minority students, as Dr. Pati shares how St. Thomas Law's welcoming environment fosters a sense of belonging and individualized attention. Learn more about St. Thomas University's Human Rights Program: https://www.stu.edu/law/human-rights/
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/29371528
info_outline
125. How To Apply For Financial Aid For Law School
01/10/2024
125. How To Apply For Financial Aid For Law School
In this episode, we explore the essential steps for law school financial aid, centering on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Emphasizing the FAFSA's significance, we discuss early submission strategies, document preparation, and the pitfalls of paid FAFSA services. AccessLex is highlighted as a valuable resource, offering free financial advice for law students. We cover the FAFSA school designation process and explain loan types, repayment considerations, and the potential impact of loan forgiveness programs.
/episode/index/show/breakintolawschool/id/29380343