<p>Hi,
I'm a freshman at Johns Hopkins, and I've recently decided that I'd like to pursue law after I graduate. However, I don't know too much about the process, and I was wondering if someone might be able to answer some of my questions. First, it seems from what I've heard from people and read on this board that law schools care overwhelmingly about your GPA and LSATs. However, I have a problem with this. For example, what if you do poorly in ONE class, and this throws off your GPA? Do law schools take this into account, or are you basically screwed for having pushed yourself and taken a difficult course? Do they look at a trend of improvement over the years, like undergraduate colleges do, or not? My school is also notorious for grade deflation (my English teacher curves the class to a C!!!!!!); will law schools take this into account? Also, Hopkins has a certain situation in which fall freshman grades are covered; in other words, they are ALL pass/fail. This works well for those who dont do well in the classes, but not for those who did do well. I did well, and I want to have those grades as a part of my GPA, but I cant reveal them at all. Will law schools recognize that my freshman grades are, therefore, only based upon spring semester grades? One last question I have is how important are undergraduate activities to law schools? In high school, I ran, played saxophone, and was a part of the literary magazine. In college, all Ive done is help tutor kids at a community center, because I really havent had much time to do anything else (lot of work). Sophomore year, however, Ive decided to join a few more clubs along with the community service. How important will these be in the long run anyway (this ones been on my mind for a while because I feel as if Im not participating in my school)? Thanks!</p>
<p>Do a little research --it'll serve you well in your future ;) --, as those are some very basic questions. Look around the website, use the search option, etc.</p>
<p>Good Luck!</p>
<p>If they're that basic, then it won't be difficult to enlighten me quickly :)</p>
<p>basic, but extensive ;)</p>
<p>Nonetheless, I'll try and help:</p>
<ul>
<li>GPA is important. But LSAT is essential! </li>
<li>Grade deflation may or may not be accounted for; depends on where you apply. Furthermore, one C shouldn't hurt you.</li>
<li>If all your Frosh classes were pass/fail, you can still request your
professors for a written evaluation in lieu of--which can be put on the LDAS. Or, may be the actual grades can be sent to the law schools, and you just won't get to see them...Inquire at your school.</li>
<li>ECs are brownie points, but Academics are the main selection factor. Also, you should be able to articulate well why you desire to attend law school --and be able to back it up.</li>
</ul>
<p>Now, go and research!!! :D</p>