Florida State University Program Offers Undergraduate Students Inside Look At Law School
Feb 1, 2011
CONTACT: Assistant Dean Janeia R. Daniels
850.644.7267 or jdaniels@law.fsu.edu
TALLAHASSEE — The Florida State University College of Law is now accepting applications for its 20th Annual Summer for Undergraduates Program. The unique program, which will take place at the law school from May 16-June 10, provides college students an inside look at law school and the legal profession.
The Summer for Undergraduates Program is the largest of its kind and has become a model for other law schools nationally during its 20-year existence. Daily classes, taught by law school professors, simulate first-year law classes and familiarize students with the American legal system and the necessity of strong writing skills. Students also participate in various sessions to gain a clearer perspective of what it takes to be admitted to the law school of their choice, including completing the application, writing personal statements, LSAT preparation, writing resumes and cover letters and financing law school.
“For 20 years, the College of Law has been educating and exposing participants to the rigors and demands, as well as the joys and delights, of law school,” said Janeia R. Daniels, assistant dean for student affairs and director of the program. “Whether students are motivated to pursue a law degree at the end of the program or realize that law school may not be the right path for them, we believe the program has achieved its goal of helping students move in the right direction.”
While the program is primarily academic in nature, there are a number of exciting activities that take place outside of the classroom. Students participate in mock oral arguments at the Florida Supreme Court and attend sessions with prominent attorneys from a variety of practice areas. They also have the opportunity to visit the Florida Legislature, state and local courts and a variety of law firms.
“There is one thing clear about this program,” said Donald Weidner, dean of the College of Law, “and that is it changes people’s lives. It offers students a formative life experience that helps them decide what they want to do going forward.”
College students enrolled at two- and four-year institutions, in all majors and from all backgrounds, are invited to apply. Because one purpose of the program is to help students direct their remaining time in college to best prepare for law school, only students who have not earned a bachelor’s degree prior to the start of the program are eligible to participate. Thanks to the financial support of Florida State Law alumnus Wayne Hogan and his wife, Patricia, the law school provides free room and board, course materials and a $500 stipend to all program participants. Admitted students are responsible only for their travel expenses to and from Tallahassee.
According to 2009 participant Stephanie Hennigan, “[T]o be able to interact with students from ivy leagues to state schools to other private universities is something you cannot get anywhere else. And to live and attend class with them 24 hours a day for a month is really great. I made good friends that I still keep in touch with today!”
Approximately 60 students will be chosen to participate in this year’s program. An application and more information about the 2011 Summer for Undergraduates Program may be found online at www.law.fsu.edu/slp. Students from groups historically underrepresented in the legal profession are especially encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted through Wednesday, March 23.