The First-Gen Disadvantage (Ep. 427)
Law school isn’t a level playing field. First-generation college students face significant disadvantages in law school, as reported by the Law School Survey of Student Engagement. Nathan and Ben discuss the major challenges that await first-gen students—underscoring the importance of not paying for law school. Later, the guys explain their approach to questions that they can’t immediately solve. They urge a geographically limited applicant to expand their list of schools. And they deliberate on a listener’s choice between the LSAT and the GRE.
2:28 - LR in the Real World
The guys use their Logical Reasoning expertise to criticize a sentimental bumper sticker. Ben reveals why he isn’t a big fan of poetry.
6:58 - First-Gen Students
The Law School Survey of Student Engagement sheds light on the challenges faced by first-generation college students attending law school.
19:46 - Timing
Nathan and Ben instruct an LSAT Demon student to ignore the clock and to answer questions at their own pace. The guys also advise against flagging questions to review later. And they explain when to move on from a question that you haven’t fully solved.
36:42 - Apply Broadly
Ben and Nathan encourage listener Nikki to apply broadly despite her limited geographical flexibility. Nikki can’t make a well-informed decision about law school without gauging her value in the marketplace.
42:26 - Applying with a Criminal Record
People with felony convictions aren’t immediately disqualified from practicing law in most states, but they face an uphill battle and increased scrutiny. The guys refer an anonymous listener to Yale’s page on applying with a criminal record.
47:27 - GRE vs. LSAT
Should listener Sarthak skip the LSAT and apply to law school with his strong GRE scores? Nathan and Ben give Sarthak their blessing—as long as he's ready to turn down bad offers.
57:04 - Gap Semester
The guys see no need for listener Minnie to explain why she took a gap semester in college.
58:23 - Touring Law Schools
Ben and Nathan consider a possible downside to campus visits. Law schools could charge higher prices to applicants who demonstrate a high level of interest in their schools.