Navigating Law School as a Non-Traditional Student: Benefits and Challenges

While being a non-traditional student may have its benefits, it also comes with a unique blend of challenges that many may already be accustomed to. While many may have learned how to work under a time constraint or balance multiple priorities, as a non-traditional student, we may hold additional family, partner, or parental responsibilities along with the responsibilities of our schoolwork. Additionally, maintaining connections with friends and social circles can further present conflicting demands, from milestone celebrations, to weddings, and religious ceremonies. While these events and time commitments can conflict with your studies, they may further be equally as important. Because of this, finding moments for personal relaxation and pursuing your hobbies can become a strategic juggling act. With great time management and prioritization, this can be done, and, as with all challenges, this may also further allow for greater growth and resilience, skills that will undoubtedly benefit you throughout your lifetime.  

Finally, perhaps the largest challenge of coming into law school as a non-traditional student is the one most well-known- the financial commitment. While many if not all students might have to grapple with the price sticker of law school, many are able to solidify their decision to apply and attend by treating it as an investment. But this commitment can become exponentially higher when you have external responsibilities. I came into law school as a homeowner, and though I do not regret my decision for a second, it can be tough to think about paying for a new hot water tank or HVAC system when you know tuition is coming due. To add to the financial stress, you may not necessarily be able to work as much as you want, or previously have, to keep the income that you have become accustomed to. I had to leave my job in corporate America where I was making a living salary because first year law school classes are all taught during the day. (For more on what it is like to be a 1L student, see the blog on “A Day in the Life of a 1L.”) Though I was able to pick up part-time jobs in retail and on campus, my hours were limited, and I was only making a fraction of the income I had been making in my previous career. This can be extremely stressful, especially for those, like me, who like to have everything budgeted down to the penny. The fear of a financial emergency can be difficult to grapple with, and can add even more stress to the experience, but, with determination and a positive mindset, even times of uncertainty can lead to greater growth, strength, and the achievement of one’s goals.

To get the most out of law school, there are a few things you can do to use your life experience to your advantage and achieve your goals.

I live by my calendars. Every day during the week is scheduled down to the minute, from the time I wake up until the time I go to bed. Everything from working out, class, studying, even meals is on my calendar. I also sync my personal and school calendars so that I know exactly what I am doing every day. This is especially important as you get into recruitment season for internships and jobs so that you can give recruiters your availability for interviews. While I do realize that things will come up, it is important to understand your tasks that you need to accomplish and when they need to be accomplished by. Creating to-do lists will also be helpful when planning for assignments. In short, plan, plan, plan.

Law school can be stressful at times. This on top of all of your other daily responsibilities can be overwhelming and can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Here’s what worked for me and might work for you too: start with the basics by ensuring you have the energy to push through the rigors of law school. That might mean eating healthier and getting a full night’s sleep. Exercise can also be a great stress reliever and a way to re-focus yourself. While it’s tempting to rely on coffee to stay awake, excessive caffeine may hinder your ability to retain information. (Trust me, I have been there and done that. It is not a great feeling). Finally, I recommend keeping a positive mindset and continuously reminding yourself that you’ve got this! You may have been through unique challenges as a non-traditional law student, and that experience will help you get through the most daunting parts of law school. Keep telling yourself that you are here for a reason, and that you are going to achieve your goal of becoming an attorney.

One of the best ways to manage your time is to have an effective communication strategy. Making sure you are in contact with everyone who may have expectations for you will allow you to be transparent and establish understanding of what you can commit to. Making sure that your professors are aware of your family obligations will allow them to understand why you may need to leave class early or arrive late at times. Communicating your school schedule to your employer will also allow them to help find someone to share the workload while you are in class. And most importantly, communicating your goals and aspirations with your friends and family will allow you to set boundaries and be realistic about how much time you can commit to engagements while in school. This will help ensure understanding amongst your network, and limit emotional duress when school or work might take priority over other commitments.

Having a financial plan and understanding how your monthly expenses will go a long way in reducing your stress and allowing you to focus on your studies. While it may be uncomfortable, this may be the perfect time to dip into a savings account if you have one. Inevitably, most law students, both traditional and non-traditional, end up taking some form of student loans to finance tuition and some or all of their living expenses while in school, depending on their situation. Having a well thought out budget and trying as hard as possible to stick to it will help you keep the discipline that likely propelled you to law school in the first place. Start by learning the basics of financial aid and financial planning.

Another way that many law students pay for law school is through summer associate programs and clerkships during the summers. This is a great way to gain legal experience while also getting paid a salary that is sometimes, though not always, pro rata of a full-time attorney salary. Learn more about my experience as a law clerk after my 1L year at Benderson Development.

Embarking on the journey of law school as a non-traditional student is both daunting and rewarding. While the challenges may seem insurmountable at times, remember that your unique life experience is your greatest asset. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or financial responsibilities, staying committed to your goals and seeking support when needed will pave the way for success and a fulfilling legal career.