<p>I would like to study abroad during the spring of my junior year, but I know that is the time when we should be studying for the LSATs and plan to take them in June. However, I am considering taking a gap year to travel, work or volunteer before law school. I know that the age one starts law school is increasing as well. </p>
<p>However, would I be behind if I didn't take the LSAT in June of my junior year, even if I don't plan to apply to law school that coming fall? </p>
<p>Also, if anyone has any experiences about taking the gap year, that would be great. Thanks!</p>
<p>p.s. If this topic has already been addressed, sorry and feel free to point me to that direction!</p>
<p>The best time to take the LSAT, from what I’ve heard, is when you feel the most prepared and ready to take it. Whether that’s junior year, senior year, or the year after is totally up to you. I don’t think you’d be behind at all if you didn’t take the LSAT in June of your junior year, particularly if you think a gap year is something you want to pursue. </p>
<p>I’m also still in college, so I don’t have any experience with a gap year myself, but I can tell you that, from what I know, law schools seem to really value experience in between graduating and matriculating into a JD program. What that experience is also up to you, but its a great time to pursue something you’re interested in–whether that’s joining the peace corps, teach for america, traveling, or even getting an MA to satisfy another interest. Whatever you do, so long as it doesn’t appear you were doing nothing and were actually enriching yourself, I think any gap year(s) could only help you. This also allows you to apply to law school with all of your grades (so you’ll hopefully have the highest GPA possible, if that’s a concern) and perhaps even a renewed perspective for why you’d like to study law. Depending on what you do with your gap year, that could also prove a prime time to study for the LSATS. If you decide to travel, the summer prior to your trip(s) and perhaps a month in the fall before you left could prove a good time to begin studying, depending on how much practice you feel you need. </p>
<p>Hope this was somewhat helpful, and good luck!</p>