The Law School Experience: Olivia Lanaghan (FSU BA 2021)

Why did you want to go to law school?

For a few reasons. 

Ever since high school, I knew attending law school was a possibility. I am a good listener, rational, level-headed, and structured so I knew law school would be a good fit. But it wasn’t until I worked for the Governor’s Office of General Counsel that I knew that going to law school was the right path for me. 

How did you prepare for law school during undergrad?

I chose History because it was my favorite subject in high school, but it ultimately prepared me for law school because History is a lot of reading, researching, and writing!  In the first year of law school, two research and writing courses are required.

I also became a member of Women in Pre-Law Society where I attended events and talked and learned directly from practicing attorneys to learn more about the profession. WIPS had LSAT study sessions, but I also invested hours upon hours studying many LSAT practice books, taking practice tests, and watching YouTube videos. 

I was fortunate enough to be chosen as an intern for Governor DeSantis’s Office of General Counsel during my senior year. I was able to see what an average day entailed for those attorneys, which solidified my desire to become one, too. I become more confident heading to law school because of the work experience I gained and from the encouragement of my colleagues.

Why did you choose the law school you are at?

First, I wanted to stay in Florida because I want to practice in Florida. I applied to nine different schools across the country and was accepted by six of them that gave me various degrees of scholarships. In the end, it was a toss-up between William and Mary and Stetson. I chose Stetson to remain closer to home, to connect to the Florida legal community, and because I received a full ride scholarship.

How different is law school from undergrad?

Completely! There’s only one test at the end of the semester per course, so you’re not going through benchmarks that show how you are doing during the semester; it comes down to one test!  In my experience, the professors “cold call” students; you must be prepared, and if you’re not, professors can take points off your final grade. The grading scale is based on a curve, so not only do you have to perform well, but you are also fighting for a better grade than your classmates.  Stetson divides all students in three sections; your section is who you are with in class the entire year.  This forms a tight community because you see the same students every day. A common fear is that law school is a very competitive environment, but Stetson doesn’t feel that way, which I am grateful for.

What does a typical day of a law-school student look like?

Wake up – study – eat – go to school – snack – study – eat – study – sleep! You must make sure you are reading the assignments, writing case briefs, updating your outlines, and researching for your memos/ briefs.

What part of law school are you enjoying the most and why?

I have learned so much in such a short amount of time. What excites me is realizing how much I am capable of doing/ handling! I joined a few clubs, and I look forward to playing in a weekly intermural softball league. It’s a fun way to destress and spend time with friends. My team is “Triple Homerside”!

Which area of law school presents more of a challenge, and how do you deal with that?

Law school expects more. I must make a conscious effort to not think about schoolwork 24/7, because there is always something to be done.  During undergrad I had assignments, but once those were completed, I had free time.  In law school there is not much free time. It can be very stressful. I am learning to be more disciplined. 

Law school has been a learning experience academically and in terms of personal growth. Learning to think in another way has been challenging. My professors often say it’s like learning a new language so it requires hard work and dedication to the topic, but it has taught me that I can do hard things. I am a very black and white thinking person - you obey the law, or you don’t - but law is actually very gray.

Have your future career plans changed since coming to law school, and if yes, how and why?

I thought I would be in Florida interning for a larger law firm over the summer.  Instead, I have accepted a paid internship with the U.S. Air Force JAG Corps that will take me to Minot, North Dakota for the summer. I’m excited to experience different areas of law including government contracting, military justice, and civil law. 

In terms of courses, I thought my least favorite courses would be Civil Procedure and Torts, but ironically, they have been my two favorites!

What advice would you give to other students wanting to go to law school?

It’s never too early to start preparing. You might have a set idea of where you want to attend but be willing to adjust and don’t be afraid to take chances.

And: while it is good to ask for advice from other people, take everything with a grain of salt, because only you truly know what is best for you!  

What advice would you give yourself if you could go back in time?

Don’t stress because everything will work out! Have confidence in your abilities; you’ve come this far for a reason!  Make sure your computer is plugged in, and you have good Wi-Fi when taking the LSAT! 

Final thoughts?

Law school is a big commitment and investment that requires a lot of independence and self-motivation.