Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for this program?
You are eligible for this program if you are a historically underrepresented student or a student who is in the first generation of your family to attend college. In addition, you must be a college student who has completed your first year (freshman) prior to the commencement of the program.
You must also have an interest in law and a record of achievement. No particular academic major is required.
What factors will be considered in the selection process?
The selection committee will make its decision based on a complete review of your application. The quality of your written personal statement, letters of recommendation and your undergraduate GPA will be considered in the selection process. Selected students will be notified by email.
When does the program begin and end?
The Summer 2024 Discover Law Program will take place Saturday, June 1st - Friday, June 28, 2024. The application will be posted within the next few weeks.
How long is the Discover Law Scholars Program?
The Discover Law Scholars Program is a four-week in-person residency program.
Does the Discover Law Scholars Program cover the cost of my transportation to and from the summer program?
No. Students are required to make their own transportation arrangements, at their own expense, to attend the summer program on the UB North Campus in Amherst, N.Y.
Where will classes take place?
All classes will take place at the School of Law, O'Brian Hall, on the UB North Campus in Amherst, N.Y.
Do I have to attend all classes in the program?
This is a rigorous academic program and full attendance from all participants on each day is mandatory. Full participation is expected. You must complete all assignments on time, not be late for class and attend all off-campus activities. If you do not demonstrate an active engagement throughout the four-week program, you may be asked to leave.
How long are classes each day?
Typically, morning classes begin at 9:00 a.m. and continue until lunchtime. Afternoon classes begin at 1:00 p.m. and continue until 4:30 p.m., with some evening events concluding at 6:30 p.m. Accepted students will sent a copy of the program schedule prior to the start of the program.
Does the Program cover Meals and Housing expenses?
The Discover Law Undergraduate Scholars Program will provide on-campus housing and a partial meal stipend to students.
While dinner will be provided by the program Sunday through Friday, students should be prepared to purchase breakfast and lunch throughout the four weeks, as well as all meals on Saturdays.
Do I have to reside on campus or can I make arrangements to live off campus?
All participants in the Discover Law Scholars Program must reside on campus in Greiner Hall. No exceptions will be made.
Where will I live on campus and what will that be like?
All program participants will be housed on the UB North Campus in a recently completed student housing complex, Greiner Hall. This is a suite-style residence, with two resident rooms connected by a shared bathroom. There are kitchenettes on each wing of every floor, equipped with stoves, sinks and microwaves. Students are permitted to bring dorm-size refrigerators if they choose. [Read more about housing]
Is on-campus parking available to participants; if so is there a fee for parking during the residency program?
On-campus parking will be available to participants at no cost during the residency program.
How does the meal allowance work?
Students will be given a meal card, which will operate as a debit card in all dining facilities, campus food venues, and designated supermarkets and restaurants off campus. Each card will be programmed for breakfast and lunch. Dinner will be catered by the University each evening.
Weekday meals will be available on campus. However, students will be responsible for their own weekend meals, through off-campus supermarkets or restaurants that accept the meal card. Students are urged to consider bringing a dorm-size refrigerator to accommodate the preparation of weekend meals.
What if I have special dietary needs?
We urge you to advise the program committee of any special dietary needs you have at the time of your acceptance into the program. Every effort will be made to accommodate your request. However, we urge you to consider bringing a dorm-size refrigerator with you to the program to help with your dietary needs.
Will there be a shuttle bus for off-campus trips?
Yes. Transportation to program events off-campus will be provided. In addition, the UB shuttle bus will be available to students for off-campus trips to supermarkets and restaurants where the meal card can be used.
Will someone be available to assist me if I have any academic difficulty or personal concerns during the 4-week program?
Yes. You will find that the law faculty and instructors will be very helpful in your efforts to develop the skills for law school success. Questions or concerns also can be brought to the attention of Kristen Kelly, Director for the Discover Law Undergraduate Scholars Program, who will be available daily during program times. In addition, each resident floor will have a law student resident assistant to address your concerns and guide your preparation of class assignments.