Internship Opportunity: Danny Tarkanian

This internship opportunity came through my office today, so I'm passing it along to you:

Schedule: Flexible Hours
Location: Las Vegas

Do you want to be an integral part of one of the most important campaigns in recent U.S. Senate history? Here’s your chance.

The Danny Tarkanian for U.S. Senate Campaign 2010 is seeking student interns to join our team. We are looking for energetic, student leaders who are interested in getting "hands on" campaign experience. The winter internship program starts in January and has flexible hours.

Ideal candidates are enthusiastic, organized, professional, and detail-oriented. Intern duties include – but are not limited to – answering phones, handling campaign mail, data entry, and assisting our staff with various tasks and projects. Internships are unpaid, but college credit may be granted.

Application Deadline: open
Start Date: open

Please submit a cover letter indicating why you would like an internship along with your available hours and a resume.

Andrea Shearer
3030 S. Durango, Suite B
Las Vegas, NV 89117
E-mail: andrea@tark2010.org

-UNLV Prelaw

ABA Legal Opportunity Scholarship 2010

'Tis the season to apply for ABA's Legal Opportunity Scholarship. I've included some of the information about the scholarship as it appears in the application package:

... The purpose of the ABA Legal Opportunity Scholarship Fund is to encourage racial and ethnic minority students to apply and to attend law school and to provide financial assistance to ensure that these students have the opportunity to attend law school for three years.

The ABA Legal Opportunity Scholarship Fund will award $5,000 of financial assistance annually to each scholarship recipient attending an ABA-accredited law school. An award made to an entering first-year student may be renewable for two additional years, resulting in financial assistance totally $15,000 during his or her time in law school...

In addition to whether the applicant is a member of a racial and/or ethnic minority that has been underrepresented in the legal profession, the applicant's financial need; personal, family and educational background; personal statement; and participation in community service activities will be considered in selecting the recipients...

The application deadline is March 1, 2010. Find more information and the application at the ABA's website: http://www.abanet.org/fje.

Best,
UNLV Prelaw

Cornell's Prelaw Program in NYC!

Dear UNLV Prelaw Students,

Do you have dreams of becoming a high-powered attorney in NYC? If so, here's a great opportunity to learn about the legal system, find prelaw internships, and explore the NYC legal scene.

Program Overview

Thinking about becoming a lawyer? Then join us this summer for the Cornell University Prelaw Program in New York City. Designed for college grads and for undergrads who will complete their sophomore year or higher by June 2010, this program features:

• a four-credit course, "Introduction to the American Legal System,"
• selective internships at law firms or in legal departments, and
• the opportunity to explore the law and culture of New York City.

Internships

Internships are available to give you experience and insight into the law profession. They are optional, un-paid, limited in number, and will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. for a complete list of internship hosts see www.sce.cornell.edu/prelaw.

The program runs from June 7 through July 16, 2010. For information on the costs and how to apply, visit the Application Website.

-UNLV Prelaw

LSAC's New Interpretive Guide to the LSAT

The LSAC has just released its Interpretive Guide for LSAT Score Users. This report reiterates that scores are comparable from test to test. Although your 160 might place you in higher relative standing on the February test than the June test, the LSAC reminds you that it still represents the same ability level, regardless. The LSAC also notes that:

• The test-taker volume for the 2008–2009 testing year was approximately 6.5 percent higher than that reported for the 2007–2008 testing year.
• The mean LSAT score for the 2008–2009 testing year was 0.17 higher than the mean LSAT score for the 2007–2008 testing year.
• Slight differences were noted between the percentile ranks for the two testing periods.

Even still, the LSAC is reminding test score users (i.e., prelaw advisors and law school admissions folks) that a 160 is a 160 is a 160.

-UNLV Prelaw

Access Group Webinar: Getting the Financial Aid You Need

Access Group is hosting a webinar about how to pay for law school. Don't miss it; it's free!

Webinar: Getting the Financial Aid You Need
Thursday, November 12, 2009
7:00 p.m. Eastern Time / 4:00 p.m. Pacific Time

Register Today

Don't delay! Register today and join us for this 1-hour must-attend Webinar where they'll learn from Access Group's Director of Borrower Education, Jeff Hanson, that it's never too early to start planning financially for law school.

For over 25 years, Access Group has helped students navigate through the student loan process. Our goal at Access Group is to make their life as a prospective graduate or professional student easier. We will help them plan for the future with No worries.

Enjoy!

-UNLV Prelaw

Boost Your Resume: Present a Paper in CHICAGO!

Dear UNLV Prelaw Fans,

The Midwest Political Science Association (MPSA) is now accepting proposals for undergraduate research papers to be presented in Chicago, IL at the 2010 MPSA National Conference. This is a fantastic opportunity to improve your resume and show the law school admissions people that you've got the skills: writing, research, oral communication, etc. Join some of your world-famous UNLV political science profs in Chicago!

Here's the invitation straight from the MPSA webpage:

Call for Undergraduate Papers

The call for undergraduate papers for the 2010 MPSA National Conference is open. You must be registered to submit a proposal. To establish your account or register, click here and follow these instructions.

For more information, click here. To submit an undergraduate proposal, click here.

The submission deadline is January 15, 2010.

If you have any questions about this conference or about your proposal, please send Dr. Wood a note. Hope to see you in Chicago!

-UNLV Prelaw

Prelaw Advice and Info for FREE from UNLV Prelaw!

Are you interested in going to law school? Become a fan of UNLV Prelaw! This page contains latest information of interest of prelaw students at UNLV and around the country. Find out about scholarship opportunities, upcoming deadlines, summer programs, events on campus, and more. Get hints and tips about the LSAT, writing your personal statement, and finding the school of your dreams! Be sure to click the VIDEOS tab and watch the UNLV Prelaw Podcast. Have a question? Post it on the discussion board and get an answer! It's all here, and it's all FREE! Visit UNLV Prelaw today!

$ UNLV Undergraduate Research Award $

About the University Libraries Lance and Elena Calvert Award for Undergraduate Research

With the support of a generous endowment from Lance and Elena Calvert, the University Libraries Lance and Elena Calvert Award for Undergraduate Research recognizes excellence in undergraduate research projects that incorporate the use of University Libraries' collections and demonstrate sophisticated information literacy skills on the part of the undergraduate researcher. The award review committee considers the product of the research, but focuses on the research process: the demonstration of library research skills, adept use of library resources, and reflection upon the strategies utilized to investigate a research problem. Winners receive a cash prize and public recognition of their excellent work.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be enrolled as a UNLV undergraduate student at the time of project completion.


• Have completed the research project under consideration for a credit course at UNLV during summer or fall terms 2009 or spring semester 2010.


• Agree to contribute to a display of their research during the year following receipt of the prize.

Project length will be dictated by the course instructor or project advisor who supports the application.

Projects in all formats are eligible including:

• Research paper or thesis


• Design portfolio


• Theater designs


• Fine arts performance (dance, music, etc. captured on CD or DVD) accompanied by program notes


• Creative work (writing, art in any format)


• Film


• Digital media

Questions about eligibility should be addressed to the chair of the Libraries' Award committee, Anne Zald.

Criteria

Submissions will be judged based on how well they demonstrate the following:

• Sophistication, originality and/or unusual depth or breadth in the use of library collections, including, but not limited to, printed resources, databases, primary resources, and materials in all media


• Exceptional ability to locate, select, evaluate, and synthesize library resources and to use them in the creation of a project in any media that shows originality and/or has the potential to lead to original research in the future


• Evidence of developing an understanding of the processes of research and inquiry.

A panel composed of faculty, librarians, students, and staff will judge entries. Expectations for achievement will be commensurate with the applicant's class year and the requirements of the discipline.

Application Deadlines

All applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on April 15, 2010.

Award winners will be honored at a reception to be held in April 2010.

Required Elements

• Cover sheet Download Application Cover Sheet


• A 500-750 word essay describing and reflecting upon your research process and use of resources Essay Tips


• A final version of the research project including a complete bibliography (use citation style appropriate to discipline)


• A letter of support and a cover sheet from the faculty member or instructor of the course for which the research was completed Download Faculty Cover Sheet



Note: applications become property of the University Libraries. They will not be returned.


Tips and additional application information.

Application Process

Submit printed entries to:


Award for Undergraduate Research, c/o

Libraries' Administration Office

2nd floor Lied Library

campus mailstop 7001

(please do not staple or bind materials)



Or e-mail electronic applications.

-UNLV Prelaw

Career Options for Law Graduates

Posted on behalf of MSU College of Law:

Career Options for Law Graduates

Tuesday, November 3, 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm EST

Featuring Mr. Ari Kaplan, Author

[You are invited] to participate in an informative online presentation (webinar) on the topic of legal careers. The featured presenter for this webinar is Mr. Ari Kaplan, author of the Amazon.com bestseller The Opportunity Maker: Strategies for Inspiring Your Legal Career Through Creative Networking and Business Development.

Mr. Kaplan will provide information regarding the typical and not-so-typical career paths available to law school graduates, data and trends relating to employment and salaries of lawyers, guidance and direction to determine if law school is consistent with your career goals, and other topics.

Also presenting at this webinar is Elliot Spoon, Assistant Dean of Career Development and Professor of Law at MSU College of Law. There will be an opportunity to ask questions, via a chat function, of both Mr. Kaplan and Dean Spoon. There is no cost to attend; however, all participants must have access to the internet and a phone connection as this online meeting includes both video and audio.

Register Now (please select the registration tab)

Presentation Details (pdf)

Sincerely,

Charles W. Roboski, Assistant Dean for Admissions and Financial Aid, Michigan State University College of Law.

Does my flashy vocab impress the law schools?

Q. Does my flashy vocab impress the law schools?

A. No, not really. Last week, I got a great e-mail from a UNLV Prelaw student. We'll call him Student X. This student asked me for advise on his personal statement. In it, Student X outlined the story that he planned to tell. He'd watched the relevant UNLV Prelaw Podcast episode, obviously, and he'd decided to talk about how a major senior project changed his outlook on work, time management, etc. It's a good premise. The problem wasn't really the content, though. The problem was the presentation. He explained the effect of the project in this way:

But then I had an epiphany and found more purpose in it as an ordeal that would bring me a plethora of knowledge, enhance my skill in analysis and logical design, and increase my character through diligence, optimism, and self-confidence.

My first reaction to this epiphany? Yeah, right! Here's the advice I gave him:

The story is not believable. That doesn't mean that it didn't happen that way, but it's just tough to believe that this particular train of thought actually occurred during this epiphany. I have a couple of suggestions about how to communicate this more convincingly.

First, what was the cause of this epiphany? What was the breaking point or the last straw for you here? Did you maybe think well, if I don't do this, I'm not going to graduate? Or, everyone else seems to be able to do this? Why am I having such a hard time? Or maybe you had a breakthrough on the project, where something finally clicked and you realized that this was actually FUN? Maybe you saw something that helped you to realize that what you were working on might actually be useful? Whatever it is, explain it. Otherwise, it looks like a random lightning strike.

Second, how did you REALLY start to realize that you'd gain all of these big, broad, overly-general benefits from the project? What was your reaction to this epiphany, REALLY? I can almost guarantee that all of the realizations from your sentence didn't come all at the same time! After whatever the original epiphany was, you probably came to realize these other things along the way. Don't just say that you realized these things. Explain it.

For example, one of the things you mention is that you realized that this ordeal would bring you an increase in your self-confidence. How do you know that? How did you experience that? Perhaps you went to speak to your professor the next day (or week...) or you spoke with classmates, or your parents, and were discussing your project with them. You might then have been aware that your posture changed, and that you felt proud of what you were working on. Maybe you stopped apologizing for yourself, or you stopped complaining, and you started to notice some actual excitement in your voice. Don't just list all of these things. Show me!

I asked Student X for permission to use this dialogue in this blog because it illustrates a very important point. The personal statement is your opportunity to show the admissions team what you are like as a person. You get to share a slice of your personality, your struggle, your sensibilities, etc. At the same time, this is the one opportunity that you have to show your writing prowess.

It's this latter fact that throws many students off. Because most undergraduate students aren't that familiar with the "legalese" that lawyers speak, there is a tendency to feel pressured to write a personal statement that uses as many long words as possible. In my opinion, this is a mistake. The admissions folks know that any yahoo with an internet connection can access a web thesaurus. Honestly, the overuse of big words and tired cliches elicit eyerolls from admissions folks.

This doesn't mean that you should "dumb it down." You want to show your facility with language, not just with words. Tossing some SAT vocab into your personal statement doesn't demonstrate your prowess with the English language. Instead, you want to use language to paint an honest, convincing picture of the slice of your life you've chosen to share with the admissions folks. Use big words only when they are the most efficient way to express yourself. Don't use them just to use them. You want to show them why this personal statement is relevant.

For Student X, I might have suggested something like this:

As my friend left for dinner without me, I sat and stared at my project. After another day's worth of work, I still had not made any real progress. What am I doing? I felt my face flush, and a wave of fear washed over me. What if I don't finish this? What if I fail the most important assignment of my university career?

I paced around the room for a while, and then I considered the question again. Suddenly, I realized something important. This is the point! I thought about the complexity of the project, the short time frame to complete it, and the small pieces I'd already completed. I realized that it was supposed to be this hard--this frustrating. This wasn't useless, boring homework. This wasn't a plot to suck the fun out of my last year of college. This was my chance to learn how hard it is to create something from scratch.

So, what's the difference? In my story, I'm trying to show the committee what actually happened to get me to appreciate the project. The original version, while laden with long, complicated words, actually oversimplified the story. Of course, your story won't sound like this. I've used my voice here, and my voice is different from your voice. The key, though, is to walk the reader through the story.

-UNLV Prelaw

Boyd School of Law Hosts Panel Discussion with Kazakhstani Judges

Posted on behalf of Boyd School of Law via UNLV Today:

Lectures/Meetings: Boyd School of Law Hosts Panel Discussion with Kazakhstani Judges - Oct. 21

Please join us at the Boyd School of Law for a special discussion of "The Relationship between the Judiciary and Executive Branches of Government in Kazakhstan" with a distinguished panel of visiting Kazakhstani judges. BSL Associate Dean Steve Johnson will give the welcome and opening remarks and Professor Dmitri Shalin of the Department of Sociology will serve as moderator. This free event is co-sponsored by the UNLV Boyd School of Law and Judge Lloyd George. No RSVP required.

Event: Panel Discussion with Kazakhstani Judges
Place: Boyd School of Law, Room 110
Event Type: Lectures/Meetings
Starts: 10/21/2009 12:30 PM
Ends: 10/21/2009 1:30 PM

-UNLV Prelaw

NEW Law School List for 10/26 Law Fair!

The 2009 UNLV Law Fair is fast approaching! On Oct. 26, we will be welcoming sixty law schools from all over the country to our campus. They will be here to answer your questions about applying to law school. This is a fantastic opportunity! To prepare for it, be sure to see UNLV Prelaw's post on making the most of this Law Fair. Who are these law schools?



View 2009 UNLV Law Fair Participants in a larger map

Albany Law School of Union University
University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law
Arizona State University College of Law
University of Baltimore School of Law
Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law Yeshiva University
Boston University School of Law
Brigham Young University - J. Reuben Clark Law School
University of California Hastings College of the Law
University of California Irvine School of Law
California Western School of Law
Case Western Reserve University School of Law
Chapman University School of Law
University of Colorado School of Law
Creighton University School of Law
University of Denver Sturm College of Law
University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
Drake University Law School
Drexel Earle Mack School of Law
Golden Gate University School of Law
Gonzaga University School of Law
Hamline University School of Law
Hofstra University School of Law
University of Idaho College of Law
University of Illinois, College of Law
John Marshall Law School
Loyola Law School Loyola Marymount University
University of Miami School of Law
University of Michigan Law School
University of Minnesota Law School
Mississippi College School of Law
University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Law
University of Nebraska College of Law
University of Nevada, Las Vegas, William S. Boyd School of Law
University of New Mexico School of Law
University of North Dakota School of Law
Oklahoma City University School of Law
University of Oregon Law School
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
Penn State University, The Dickinson School of Law
Phoenix School of Law
Roger Williams University Ralph R. Papitto School of Law
University of San Diego-School of Law
University of San Francisco School of Law
Santa Clara University School of Law
Seton Hall University School of Law
Southern Illinois University School of Law
Southwestern University School of Law
St. Thomas University School of Law
Suffolk University Law School David J. Sargent Hall
Texas Wesleyan University School of Law
Thomas M. Cooley Law School
Thomas Jefferson School of Law
University of Utah S. J. Quinney College of Law
Villanova University School of Law
Washburn University School of Law
Western New England College School of Law
Western State University College of Law
Whittier Law School
Willamette University College of Law
William & Mary Law School

Come join UNLV Prelaw in welcoming these fine schools to our campus!

-UNLV Prelaw

Deadline for 2010-2011 RA Application is Approaching!

Posted on behalf of Ali from Housing & Residential Life:

In Housing and Residential Life, we are currently seeking applicants for our Resident Assistant/Multicultural Assistant Positions for the 2010-2011 academic term. We are currently looking for any students who will be a 2nd semester/sophomore or higher student in the Fall of 2010, who has a cumulative and semester GPA of a 2.5, and who exhibits an ability to uphold the responsibilities that are critical for a Resident Assistant or Multicultural Assistant in the Department of Housing and Residential Life. Please consider applying. You will find the position application here: http://housing.unlv.edu/downloads/RaMa_app.pdf. A position description for the RA and MA can be found here: http://housing.unlv.edu/rajob.html (Anyone applying will automatically be applying as an RA, but we allow students to indicate whether or not they are also interested in being considered for an MA on the application, and those students will also be asked specific MA related questions in their interview process). Applications are due by Thursday, October 29th at 4:30 p.m. at the Housing and Residential Life Office, located on the 1st floor of Tonopah North. All applicants will be required to participate in both a group and individual interview.

If you have any further questions about the RA/MA positions please email Alli Myers St. John at Allison.Myers@UNLV.edu.

-UNLV Prelaw

UNLV's Boyd Law Open House

Posted on behalf of UNLV's Boyd School of Law:

Open House
Date: October 17, 2009
Location: 110 [Law School Building]
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Prospective applicants and the general public will have the opportunity to tour the law school’s facility in the heart of the UNLV campus. Come meet with law school students, alumni, faculty, and professional staff who will be on hand to chat about the Boyd School of Law and its many offerings. Learn more about:

• Course offerings
• Student activities and organizations
• The Wiener-Rogers Law Library
• The Thomas & Mack Moot Court Facility
• Career opportunities
• Application procedures

-UNLV Prelaw

Boyd Information Sessions

Posted on behalf of UNLV's Boyd School of Law:

Throughout the year, the William S. Boyd School of Law offers information sessions designed for individuals interested in applying to the law school. The sessions review application requirements and provide information about the Boyd School of Law.

You can make reservations by emailing Liz Karl. Content covered in each session does not vary. Check this website for dates and times. A tour of the law school will follow each session.

The Boyd School of Law [also] offers tours of our facilities immediately following each information session. Registration is not required. For information on location of the William S. Boyd School of Law, parking, and accommodations, please visit www.unlv.edu/main/visitors.

Schedule
UNLV (Las Vegas) Law School Information Sessions:
Thursday, November 12 at 4:00 pm Thomas & Mack Moot Court Facility

-UNLV Prelaw

Personal Statement Consultant--Discount

[Note: UNLV Prelaw does not endorse any particular law school admissions consultation service. Students should research their options before deciding whether and which service to use.]

Posted on behalf of Sonel Shropshire of The Academic Network:

Future law school applicants,

Do you know the one thing which could increase or decrease your chances of admission into law school - the personal statement!
If you are applying to law school for fall 2010, please consider the "Personal Statement Development Package." As a 10-year former Dean of Law Admissions, I know exactly what my colleagues are looking for in a personal statement "masterpiece!" Register now at http://www.sonelshropshire.com/ on the "register" page. As soon as you register, you will receive an e-mail confirmation, along with the Personal Statement Template for your first draft. We'll get started immediately!

Mention this e-mail and receive a $200 discount (regularly priced at $600). Plus, I'll thrown in the "Addendum Template" which could strengthen your application even more. There are limited spaces available for this remarkable discount, so register quickly.

Best,
Sonel

Sonel Y. Shropshire, J.D.
President, The Academic Network, Inc.
2010 West Avenue K # 646
Lancaster, CA 93536-5229
661.945.4522 tel
info@sonelshropshire.com

-UNLV Prelaw

Free Kaplan Sample Class @ UNLV

[Note: UNLV Prelaw does not endorse any particular test preparation provider. Students should research their options fully before determining which test prep company is best for them.]

Posted on behalf of Jen from Kaplan Test Prep:

Hi! We're holding FREE sample classes this month. You'll learn invaluable tips and strategies to help you raise your score. Please see the attached sheet for times. Call me or come by the office [in the student union] to sign up. (Or just show up).
Come one, come all!
:)
Thanks,
Jen

Wed. October 14, 2009 5:30 – 7:30 PM @ UNLV

Jennifer Bloecker Center Manager Las Vegas Kaplan Test Prep &
Admissions (702) 798-5005 jennifer.bloecker@Kaplan.com

-UNLV Prelaw

TIPS for the UNLV Law Fair: Max it out!

Hooray!

The 2009 UNLV Law Fair is fast approaching! On October 26 from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm, more than 60 law schools will gather in the ballroom at the Student Union to answer your questions! Does it sound intimidating? Here with some suggestions on how to prepare yourself for the festivities is Amy Urbanek, the Prelaw Advising Coordinator at the University of Utah:

It can seem overwhelming at first to see all those tables, but relax - the representatives are accustomed to talking about their schools and are anxious to speak with you, so don’t be nervous. There are no "dumb" questions, and as long as you are polite and interested you will come across just fine. You are not there to be interviewed by the schools. These law fair representatives attend many similar events so they are unlikely to remember you. On the other hand, do mind your manners. They will remember you if you are rude, and that won’t work in your favor. You do not need to dress up, but do look respectable.

Take advantage of this opportunity to explore. Don’t just visit the tables of schools you have already decided upon. Wander through the room and talk to as many schools as you can. You might find a hidden gem that you would otherwise have missed.

It is perfectly acceptable to ask what a school is looking for in an
applicant. Ask this same question of a number of different schools. You will find many areas of agreement, but you may also find some areas where schools differ a bit, and may even pick up a few good "insider tips".

If you are speaking with an alumnus or current student from a law school rather than an admissions professional, ask them to give you "the scoop" on what it is really like to attend that school. What did they like? What didn’t they like? Do they have any tips on what it takes to be successful there? While they may not be able to provide the same level of detail on the law school’s programs, faculty, etc., the more informal information they can provide can be invaluable.

As you ask questions, make sure you keep track of each school’s answers. You don’t want to get home to find you have a wealth of good information but no idea where it all came from!

Great advice, Amy! There will be a lot going on, and it may be tempting to just wander around aimlessly. It's normal to feel a bit embarrassed about asking questions, so it's helpful to know what you want to ask ahead of time.

Amy's advice implies a couple of important pieces of information about the people you'll meet at the law fair. The most important piece of information is who you'll be speaking to.

Some schools will send someone from their admissions office. These people will likely have a say in who gets accepted an who does not. You'll want to ask these folks about what their ideal candidate would be, and what characteristics they hope their incoming class (as a whole) will have. You might not want to ask the sort of factual questions that you could easily have learned from their website (i.e., Which town are you in? How many students do you have? What is your US News Ranking?). You might also want to tread with caution when asking things like "How hard are the classes?" and "Who is the easiest legal writing prof?"

Other schools will send alums to the Law Fair. These are folks who have made it through the school's program and have emerged at the end of the tunnel with a J.D. in hand. These folks will not be sitting in on the admissions decisions, and they generally won't be law professors from that school, so the questions you'll ask them will be different. They might be able to give you a sense of what the admissions folks are looking for in their "ideal candidate," but they'll also be able to give you a sense of what it's actually like to be a student there. If you ask the admissions representatives about their "favorite thing about Law School X," they're likely to say something broad (and generally unhelpful, no offense), like "we place great emphasis on student diversity and we offer a quality educational setting..." Er..ok. We'd sort of figured that out ahead of time. If you ask the alums, though, they might say "I loved Professor Smith's tort class, but you'll never make it through if you don't ____," or "The library can be loud sometimes, but there's this great little spot on the third floor where the librarians hang out..."

Amy also points out that your conduct is important. You might like to think that nobody would remember you, but don't be so sure. You really don't want to be that guy. You know, the guy who says things like, "Why would anyone want to go to law school in East Lansing, Michigan? I mean, I think that my scores are probably way too high for your school, anyway." You don't want to be the guy who knocks over the admissions official's table and then laughs as she struggles to right the ship. While your good behavior might not go down in history, your bad behavior is likely to come back and bite you. You might also consider that the dress code in Vegas is a little more, er...well, permissive than elsewhere in the country. You don't need to come in a business suit, but it might help to have your midriff covered. I can't imagine that I actually have to say all of this, though, as I expect that you already knew it.

-UNLV Prelaw

JD/MELP from Northeastern and Vermont Law

Posted on behalf of Northeastern University School of Law:

Northeastern University School of Law announces a new partnership with Vermont Law School--a national leader in environmental law--to train lawyers interested in playing a critical policy and advocacy role as environmental leaders. Northeastern law students earn a JD from Northeastern and a Master of Environmental Law and Policy from Vermont Law School in the same three years that it would take to earn just the JD. The program includes a summer of advanced environmental courses at Vermont and four full-time, 11-wee co-op externships.

Working together, Northeastern and Vermont are building environmental field placements around the world. Students may also qualify for fellowship support through Northeastern's Program on Human Rights and the Global Economy.

Northeastern/Vermont join a relatively short list of schools offering formal dual degree programs in law and environmental issues. Others include Tulane's JD/MSPH (or MPH) degrees in environmental health sciences, the JD-MEPS (or MEPC or MSEPC) in environmental pollution control at Penn State, Vermont's own JD/MSEL program in environmental policy and law, and JD/MSL programs in environmental policy and law at Idaho, UC Davis and South Dakota (which also works through Vermont Law). There are several other available programs, like Stanford's JD in environmental science, Dukes JD-MS in environmental science, and several other joint degrees in environmental management, environmental studies, and the like. For more, see the NAPLA/SAPLA Law School Book of Lists.

-UNLV Prelaw

Wayne State's International Legal Studies Program

Posted on behalf of Wayne State University Law School:

Wayne State University Law School is pleased to announce the launch of its new Program for International Legal Studies. Professor Gregory Fox has been named as Director.

International law cuts across all aspects of a Wayne State legal education. Fully one-third of Wayne Law's tenured and tenure-track faculty teaches and writes on international subjects. Those faculty members enjoy world-wide reputations as innovative and prolific scholars, publishing on the most important issues of the day. Students can take classes on a remarkable range of international topics, from international commercial transactions to international environmental law to the use of military force and the protection of human rights. And study abroad programs give students a first-hand view of other nations' legal systems and their approaches to legal education.

Wayne State Law School joins a very long list of schools with international programs. For a list of others, see the VERY helpful NAPLA/SAPLA Law School Book of Lists maintained by Boston University's Pre-Professional Advising.

-UNLV Prelaw

NYU's Early Decision

Posted on behalf of NYU Law:

We wish to remind you that NYU School of Law has a binding Early Decision option for applicants who have decided that NYU is their first choice Law School. This option is open to applicants who took the LSAT by September 2009. Candidates may not apply to binding early decision options at other law schools, and those who are admitted under [NYU's] Early Decision option are obligated to withdraw their applications to other law schools immediately upon notification from NYU.

For more information, see http://www.law.nyu.edu/.

-UNLV Prelaw

UNLV Law Fair to Draw Many Law Schools!

UNLV Prelaw is very excited about the upcoming 2009 UNLV Law Fair. The Law Fair will be held on Monday, October 26, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom. There will be a law school admissions panel ready to answer your questions, a seminar on how to finance your law school career, and an opportunity to visit one-on-one with admissions officials from dozens of law schools. The following law schools have already confirmed that they will be sending their admissions representatives to UNLV to answer your questions:

List of Schools as of 9/30/09

Albany Law School of Union University
University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law
Arizona State University College of Law
University of Baltimore School of Law
Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law Yeshiva University
Boston University School of Law
Brigham Young University - J. Reuben Clark Law School
University of California Hastings College of the Law
University of California Irvine School of Law
California Western School of Law
Chapman University School of Law
University of Colorado School Of Law
Creighton University School of Law
University of Denver Sturm College of Law
University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
Drake University Law School
Drexel Earle Mack School of Law
Golden Gate University School of Law
Gonzaga University School of Law
Hamline University School of Law
Hofstra University School of Law
University of Idaho College of Law
University of Illinois, College of Law
John Marshall Law School
Loyola Law School Loyola Marymount University
University of Michigan Law School
University of Minnesota Law School
Mississippi College School of Law
University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Law
University of Nebraska College of Law
University of Nevada, Las Vegas,William S. Boyd School of Law
University of North Dakota School of Law
Oklahoma City University School of Law
University of Oregon Law School
University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
Penn State University, The Dickinson School of Law
Phoenix School of Law
Roger Williams University Ralph R. Papitto School of Law
University of San Diego-School of Law
University of San Francisco School of Law
Santa Clara University School of Law
Seton Hall University School of Law
Southern Illinois University School of Law
Southwestern University School of Law
St. Thomas University School of Law
Suffolk University Law School David J. Sargent Hall
Texas Wesleyan University School of Law
Thomas M. Cooley Law School
Thomas Jefferson School of Law
University of Utah S. J. Quinney College of Law
Villanova University School of Law
Washburn University School of Law
Western New England College School of Law
Western State University College of Law
Whittier Law School
Willamette University College of Law
William & Mary Law School

UNLV Prelaw looks forward to welcoming these law schools to Las Vegas as a service to our aspiring law students.

Save $200 on Kaplan Test Prep

Posted on behalf of Kaplan Test Prep @ UNLV:

Today is the last day to save $200 off a Kaplan Test Prep course. Students may enroll with a $299 deposit--fully refundable--and take the course at a later date. We offer tuition assistance that is separate from federal loans.

For more information, see http://www.kaptest.com, or visit them at the Student Union.

[This message is posted on behalf of Kaplan Test Prep as a courtesy. Please note that UNLV Prelaw does not endorse any particular commercial test preparation company. UNLV Prelaw encourages students to research their options before choosing a test preparation company.]

Legal Assistant Position | PAD

Posted on Behalf of Mr. Roitman via PAD UNLV:

[Phi Alpha Delta] LEGAL ASSISTANT POSITION AVAILABLE

Hello Everyone,

My name is Michael and I am a member of Phi Alpha Delta. I currently work for a criminal defense attorney. We will be hiring for the position of Legal Assistant and Office Receptionist. No office experience is required but applicants must have basic computer skills and their own vehicle.

This position entails making runs to the courthouse, setting client appointments and facilitating new client intake, collecting client payments, communicating client needs to office manager and attorney, keeping record of all client communication, maintaining client list, and making billing calls, as well as other tasks.

Applicants should be able to work in mid to high level pressure environment and able to take instruction quickly and correctly.Please send all applications to Mairead@grecolawgroup.net.

Starting pay $10-$12; roughly 25-35 hours a week. Mention that you are a member of Phi Alpha Delta in your email. Interviews will be conducted this week and next week.

Fraternally Yours,

Michael

Michael G. RoitmanLegal AssistantGreco Law Group20 E. Bonneville St. 110ALas Vegas, NV 89101(702) 545-0130Fax: (702) 838-7181

-UNLV Prelaw

JD? Why not MS in Legal Tech?

Albany Law School has just unveiled a Master's degree in Legal Studies with a Technology Transfer concentrations. They are marketing this as an alternative for folks who haven't made "immediate plans for law school." The program includes introductory legal topics as well techonology transfer topics and intellectual property training.

There are a lot of options when it comes to graduate legal studies degrees, but this is the first program that I know of with a technology transfer focus. Check it out here.

-UNLV Prelaw

Law Schools w/January Start Date

Pace Law School just announced the launch of a January start date program. Their program allows students to start in January and make up the extra semester over the summer, joining their peers for their 2L class. The application deadline for Pace's January 2010 program is November 16, 2009.

This is a neat new program, and Pace is one of the few to have it. Here is my best list of schools with Spring Start programs (although I make no guarantees here). Be sure to contact your school of interest to confirm. Remember that every program is different, so you'll need to track down the program details:

• Baylor (TX)
• Cardozo (NY)
• California Western (CA)
• Cleveland State (OH)
• Florida Coastal (FL)
• Golden Gate (CA)
• Indiana (IN)
• John Marshall (IL)
• Ohio Northern (OH)
• Pace (NY)
• Pontifical Catholic (PR)
• Richmond (VA)
• St. John's (NY)
• St. Thomas (FL)
• South Texas (TX)
• Stetson (FL)
• Cooley (MI)
• Thomas Jefferson (CA)
• Touro (NY)
• Tulsa (OK)
• Washburn (KS)
• Washington (WA)
• Western State (CA)
• Whittier (CA)

-UNLV Prelaw

Florida State's Summer Program for Prelaw Students

Posted on behalf of Florida State Law:

I’m pleased to inform you about Florida State Law’s 2010 Summer for Undergraduates Program—an intensive, four-week program that provides interested students with an inside look at law school and the legal profession.

This program will run from May 17th to June 11th, 2010, and applications must be postmarked by Friday, March 26. Students can access additional information about the program, including a downloadable application, frequently asked questions, and a sample schedule from our Web site (http://www.law.fsu.edu/slp). Also see the flyer, which can be found here. http://www.law.fsu.edu/prospective_students/documents/interestedinlawschool.htm

-UNLV Prelaw

PAD Meeting Tuesday, September 29, 2009 in the Student Union Rm 219 from 4pm-5pm

Posted on behalf of UNLV PAD

Members,

Reminder: Meeting Tuesday, September 29, 2009 in the Student Union Rm 219 from 4pm-5pmWe will not be holding candidate speeches I am currently re-revising the election process I have scribed up. We will go over that and plenty of other information for this upcoming semester. I will send out another reminder tomorrow. Attached with it the itinerary forTuesday's meeting. If you have
anything you might like to add to our meeting or speak about. Please notify me ahead of time so i can list you on the itinerary, but we will also have an open forum as well. So feel free to use that time as well.

Fraternally,
PAD President

Keith.Stephenson@rocketmail.com

-UNLV Prelaw

LSAT Takers: READ THIS NOW!

Dear UNLV Prelaw's brave September 2009 LSAT takers,

It's time! The LSAT is *gulp* tomorrow! Hopefully, you feel ready. Probably, you don't. That's normal. At this point, there are only a few more things you can do to help make the process as comfortable as possible.

1. Stop fretting. Rent a DVD or something. Wind down at a reasonable hour tonight. If you need to work a logic game or two, fine. But don't go overboard. It won't help. You need to get a good night's sleep, so you'll want to take your mind off of the test for a while. If you usually exercise, you should exercise in moderation. If you're not sure whether or not you're allergic to shellfish, tonight is not the night to eat at Red Lobster for the first time. You get the picture, right?

2. Don't get wasted tonight. Keep good sleep hygiene tonight. Read a novel if you can't get to sleep. Don't knock yourself out with a six-pack or a handful of Tylenol PMs. You'll feel like crap in the morning.

3. Be sure that you know where you're going. Most UNLV Prelaw readers will be taking their tests on campus. Know where you need to be, what time you need to be there (no later than 8:30 a.m.!), and where you're going to park. If you show up late, you will NOT be allowed to take the test.

4. Make sure you have what you need. Items you MUST have include:

• Your admission ticket. Print it out TONIGHT. If you have already printed it out, log on to your LSAC account anyway, just to be sure. Sometimes the proctors need to change the location at the last minute, and you want to be in the know.
• Identification. Any old identification will simply not do. The LSAC requires "current valid (not expired) government-issued ID bearing your signature." The photo must be recent and recognizable. Really, you need your drivers license or your passport. The first and last name on the identification MUST MATCH the last name on your admission ticket. They will be sticklers about this!
• Pencils. Again, any old pencils will not do. You need No. 2 pencils. No mechanical pencils are allowed. Why? Beats me. Because they said so, I guess. They will not provide pencils for you. They will not even provide sharpeners for you.

5. Assemble the other things that you're allowed to bring. It's not much. You can put your things in a clear plastic ziplock bag, maximum size one gallon. If it's not on this list, DON'T bring it. Seriously.

• Your ID and LSAT Admission Ticket stub
• Your wallet
• Keys
• Analog (NOT digital) watch
• Medical or hygiene products
• #2 or HB pencils (not mechanical)
• Highlighter
• Erasers
• Pencil sharpener (not electric, I'm guessing)
• Tissues (not to say that the test will cause you to burst into tears or anything...)
• A beverage in a plastic container or juice box (max. 20 oz.)
• A snack for the break

6. In the morning, don't do anything crazy. Don't try to run 5 miles at 5:30 a.m. if you don't usually run 5 miles at 5:30 a.m. If you're a regular coffee drinker, have your normal amount of coffee. If you're not a coffee drinker, for goodness' sake don't start now. Don't gobble down a handful of caffeine pills. If you're not used to having a huge pancake breakfast, now is not the time to start. Be sure to eat at least SOMETHING (or you'll be really, really hungry during the test), but don't put yourself into a food coma. Moderation, folks. Moderation.

7. In the morning, make sure you do NOT have contraband on or around your person when you reach the testing center. It's a good idea to have your mom or roommate pat you down to double check. The following items are strictly prohibited:

• Electronic timers, beeping watches, alarm watches, calculator watches, or any watch with any features other than a dial and three hands;
• Cell phones, beepers (really? beepers? What is this, 1980?) pagers, PDAs, computers, etc.;
• Hats or hoods that are not pieces of religious apparel (sorry, skateboarding is not yet a recognized religion);
• Books, dictionaries, papers of any kind, calculators, rulers, slide rules, compasses, protractors, abacuses, etc.;
• Mechanical pencils, ballpoint pens, fountain pens, a tablet and chisel, etc.;
• Briefcases, handbags, backpacks, duffel bags, etc. The only bags you can bring are the clear plastic bag and the bags under your eyes;
• Earplugs, headsets, those annoying little Bluetooth headsets that make people think you're talking to them, listening devices, TV Ears, etc.;
• Recording devices, cameras, mimeographs, etc.
• Guns, knives, machetes, slingshots, blow darts, brass knuckles, etc.;
• ANYTHING electronic. If it has a battery, an AC or DC adaptor, a generator, a solar panel, a nuclear reactor or gunpowder, and it is not an analog watch, you cannot bring it to the test center. Break these rules and they will throw you out. Seriously.

8. What to expect when you get there. The proctors have very strict instructions, and they will enforce them. This is one situation where you do NOT want to stand out from the crowd.

• Listen to the proctors. They are the boss of you. They may pace around the room.
• Be prepared to show your ID at any time, and repeatedly.
• You will be thumbprinted, and you'll be asked to sign a statement on your test sheet. If you don't, this could delay or invalidate your score.
• If you are late, you will not take the test.
• You'll get an assigned seat.
• The time limits are strictly enforced. Don't think that you'll be able to sneak a few bubbles in after the official time has expired.
• You won't have any scratch paper, except for the writing sample. That will be provided by the proctor if you need it.
• You will only get access to your snack and your juicebox during the break. While you are taking the test, do NOT attempt to take anything out of your plastic bag.
• If you need an emergency potty break, you'll need permission, and you'll have to turn in your materials and collect them once you're done. Remember, you will NOT get to make that time up. If you can, hold it.
• If you're left-handed (as most exceptionally bright and talented folks are), they might have a special desk for you, but they might not. You'll probably have to suffer life as a lefty in a righty's world, just like you always do.
• If something very unusual happens (e.g., the fire sprinklers go off in the test room in the middle of the test or the power goes out), you might have to take next regularly scheduled test. You won't have to pay for it, but it will be a total pain in the rear. You'll get a notice from the proctor.
• If you create a disturbance (DON'T), or you cheat, or you try to cheat (DON'T and DON'T), or try to take test materials from the test center (DON'T), you'll get in trouble. Just don't do it. Again, this is NOT the time to stand out from the crowd.

Okay. Now you're ready, right? Right! Good luck!

-UNLV Prelaw

PS. Don't take my word for it. Click here to find the LSAC's much less comical version of the test day instructions.

Join UNLV's Prelaw Fraternity This Week!

The Student Involvement Fair is in the Student Union on Tuesday and Wednesday, 9/15 and 9/16, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Be sure to come by and get information about Phi Alpha Delta, UNLV's prelaw fraternity. They will be at table 13. When you enter the Student Union from the side facing the FDH building, turn right and you will find PAD against the window.

-UNLV Prelaw

Application Cycle Tips from Seattle U

Tips for the Application Cycle
from the Law School's Perspective

DO submit your application early.
DO allow 24 hours for us to respond to your inquiries (whether it be via email or voicemail).
DO be professional and courteous when leaving voicemail or sending email.
DO follow up about the status of your application (use the online status checker tool).
DO be patient. We know you are nervous, anxious, etc., know that we are working hard to get information to you.
DO set up an appointment to visit a class, receive a tour, etc. (you'll get the opportunity to speak with our current students).
DO read all correspondence thoroughly - paying close attention to deadlines and fees due.
DO keep us updated with new contact information (phone numbers, email addresses, mailing addresses, etc.).
DON'T submit more than one copy of your application materials.
DON'T forget to check dates closely.
DON'T have a spouse/partner or parent call about your application file (we can't talk to anyone but you).

-UNLV Prelaw

Widener Law | Fee Waiver

Widener Law is offering a fee waiver for applications received before December 31, 2009. Apply online here.

UNLV Prelaw FAQs | Health Insurance for Law Students

A forward-thinking UNLV Prelaw student recently asked a great question about health insurance, which I've paraphrased here:

Once I become a full time law students, how will I be able to get insurance? Will it be expensive? How good is the insurance?

The short answer is that there is no short answer. The first plan of attack is to check with your parents. You may be able to continue your coverage under their plan, depending on your age, your enrollment status, and your folks' insurance carrier's rules on these things.

If this doesn't pan out, you'll want to contact your law school. Indeed, this is something you'll want to investigate when you're choosing your law school. Each law school has a different plan for covering its students. Unless you've got a scholarship package that includes this coverage, you'll probably have to pay a premium for it. The premiums and coverage will vary by school.

That said, most states do not currently require you to have health insurance if you don't want it. While international students are typically required to carry this kind of coverage, domestic students are often free to decide for themselves whether or not to have health insurance coverage during their law school years. You can find out the status of these requirements on a state-by-state basis by visiting the Georgetown University Health Policy Institute's website.

Once you've narrowed down your list of schools, it is a good idea to check their websites for information about health insurance. You can find links to the ABA Accredited Law Schools on the ABA's website, and a list including other law schools can be found on the LSAC website.

News 88.9 KNPR - Nevada Public Radio

Dr. Wood was on the radio this morning with Juan Williams...sort of. Listen to the discussion of the Supreme Court's affirmative action decision in Ricci by clicking on the link below.

News 88.9 KNPR - Nevada Public Radio

Shared via AddThis

Video Contest from Access Group ($10,000!)

[Note: This information is posted on behalf of Access Group.]

Access Group would like you to spread the news about a scholarship contest we’re holding specifically for law students.

For the second consecutive year, Access Group is sponsoring its popular law scholarship video contest and we’re inviting as many students as possible to participate in this opportunity. During last year’s "One Less Worry" contest, we received 99 video submissions and awarded six winning law students more than $15,000 in scholarships. Now, we’re doing it again!

This year’s law video contest, "My Inspiration," is calling for current and entering law students to create and submit a brief video describing their inspirations for becoming a lawyer. The top ten videos, as chosen by Access Group, will be posted on YouTube.com and the student whose video receives the most votes will win a $10,000 scholarship. Access Group may also award up to five additional honorable mention scholarships valued at $1,500 each. Deadline for entries is July 15, 2009, with judging set to begin August 3, 2009. The winners will be announced by September 3, 2009.

For more details, including the official rules and deadlines, please visit them here.

Weekend LSAT Prep Courses

[Note: This notice was posted on behalf of a for-profit test preparation company. The information is posted as a service to UNLV Prelaw students. UNLV Prelaw does not recommend any particular test preparation company. Students are encouraged to research the options--including self-study--before enrolling in any test preparation course.]

From GetPrepped.com:

Get Prepped's single weekend class is an intensive review to maximize your study time. Only $359. Save $25 by using the discount code PR008PR. Courses are offered in Las Vegas over the following weekends: Sept. 19-20 (for the 9/26/09 LSAT), Nov. 21-22 (for the 12/5/09 LSAT), and Jan. 30-31 (for the 2/6/10 LSAT). For more information, visit GetPrepped.com

-UNLV Prelaw

What Do Lawyers Do?

From LSAC Forums:

A panel of attorneys representing a diverse cross-section of practice areas will
inform participants about the profession. Panelists will describe their career
paths and offer details on the skills needed to represent clients effectively.
This panel will be especially helpful to participants who do not know practicing
lawyers.

Find the video here.

Help Raise Money for Best Buddies!

Posted on Behalf of Best Buddies Nevada:

Hash House A Go Go and Fox 5’s MORE! anchors give back with stuffed burgers
Anchors designed burgers for National Burger Month available May 15-25
LAS VEGAS – May 14, 2009 – Hash House A Go Go and KVVU Fox 5’s MORE! anchors team up to celebrate National Burger Month by creating their own one pound stuffed burgers and donating a portion of the proceeds to the charity Best Buddies.

Fox 5’s Jason Feinberg, Monica Jackson and Rachel Smith recently joined up with Hash House A Go Go Chef Anthony Vidal to put their culinary skills to the test. Each anchor created their own signature one pound stuffed burger which will be available for brunch and dinner at Hash House A Go Go May 15 through May 25. The dynamic trio will be pitted against each other to find out whose burger best satisfies the taste buds of the community. The best-selling burger will earn its creator the honor of having all the proceeds from National Burger Month donated to Best Buddies in his or her name. Best Buddies is an organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-on-one friendships and integrated employment.

All three burgers have two Certified Angus Beef patties with stuffing in between and come with lettuce, onion and tomato on a fresh bun. Feinberg’s "Meowy-Wowy Burger" comes stuffed with delicious caramelized onions and classic barbeque sauce. Jackson’s "Hot and Spicy Mama Monica Burger" is stuffed with zesty chipotle adobo and smoked cheddar cheese. Smith’s burger, "It Ain’t Easy Being GOAT Cheesy," is a tasty concoction stuffed with jalapeño olive tapenade and goat cheese. The burgers will be available during brunch and dinner for $9.95 each with $2 from each burger purchased donated to Best Buddies. Sides are not included in the price but can be added for additional fees.

About Hash House A Go Go
Hash House A Go Go brings farm-fresh food with a funky, modern twist to the locals and visitors of Las Vegas. The well-known restaurant puts its own unique spin on dining, making it an experience like no other. Hash House A Go Go is about having a good time - sophistication with no pretension. Hash House A Go Go was recently featured on ABC Primetime’s "What Would You Do?" The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch daily from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Hash House A Go Go is open until 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and until 2:30 p.m. Sunday. The restaurant is located at 6800 West Sahara Avenue.

For reservations or inquiries, please call 702-804-4646 or visit the website.

FYI: The United States Meets Europe

Posted on behalf of the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy:

The Institute for Cultural Diplomacy is delighted to announce the launch of a
new program, The United States Meets Europe: A Forum for Young Leaders, which
will be holding a Weeklong Seminar in Berlin from June 29th - July 4th, 2009.

The United States Meets Europe: A Forum for Young Leaders has been designed
with the intention of bringing together young individuals (mid-later stage
students or young professionals with 2 years experience) from both sides of the
Atlantic in order for them to gain an insight into cultural diplomacy, exchange
ideas and experiences, and learn from influential figures already working in the
field. Participants will develop contacts on both a social and professional
level and participate in challenging discussions. The Forum aims to examine the
state of the American- European relationship today and to consider the role of
cultural diplomacy in supporting this relationship.

For further information about The United States Meets Europe, please visit our website.

The Institute for Cultural Diplomacy is an international, not-for-profit, non-governmental organization concerned with the promotion of intercultural understanding. Our activities include conducting research into cultural diplomacy and organizing programs that facilitate cultural exchange. The Institute for Cultural Diplomacy Forums have been developed to facilitate intercultural exchange at the grass roots, civil society and political levels. Participants are encouraged to develop their own leadership initiatives, which are supported through an online forum and personal consultation.

To learn more about the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy, please visit our website.

[Note: This notice was posted as a courtesy. Dr. Wood is not affiliated with this group. Students are cautioned to research these opportunities thoroughly before participating.]

-UNLV Prelaw

Snell & Wilmer LSAT Scholarship

From Snell & Wilmer:

SNELL & WILMER LLP
Diversity LSAT Scholarship
Application

Snell & Wilmer has a deep and longstanding commitment to
developing, maintaining and fostering an inclusive and accepting environment
rich in diversity.
Snell & Wilmer recognizes that through the years certain diverse populations have
not realized the same access to careers in the legal profession. The Snell & Wilmer
Diversity Prelaw Program is designed to expand diverse populations’ access to
careers in the legal profession to further the enrichment of diversity in the legal
community as a whole.
One component of the Snell & Wilmer Diversity Prelaw Program is the
Snell & Wilmer LSAT Scholarship. The Snell & Wilmer LSAT Scholarship
provides eligible diverse undergraduate students who are interested in becoming an
attorney with a scholarship that fully subsidizes the costs of the following:
*LSAT Registration Fee
*LSAT Review Course (Kaplan, Princeton or ACE)
*An application for the Snell & Wilmer LSAT
We recognize that there are many types of diversity, and welcome all
applications accordingly.

Find the application here. The deadline is June 15, 2009, and the application requires:

• The completed application form,
• A copy of your resume,
• A copy of your transcript,
• A copy of your most recent FAFSA SAR,
• A letter from an academic reference,
• and A 500-word essay.

Redesigned LSAC Website

The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) has announced the complete redesign of the LSAC website. This has been in the works for more than two years, and it debuted on Monday, 4/27/09. According to the LSAC's Anne Brandt, students will "encounter a much more intuitive and easy-to-use site for all of their interactions with LSAC."

The biggest change is probably in the Letter of Recommendation (LOR) service. The complicated letter classifications have been eliminated. All you have to do now is assign your letters to the various law schools as you desire.

A Nottingham LLM Before Law School?

[Note: This information is provided as a courtesy to UNLV Students. UNLV Prelaw does not endorse any particular LLM Program.]

Today, information about the Masters (LLM) programs at the University of Notthingham School of Law has arrived on Dr. Wood's desk. Here's an excerpt:

US college students may not be aware that their undergraduate experience could
be excellent preparation for spending twelve months reading for the degree of
LLM at one of the UK's premier law schools beflre they enrol for their JD back
at home. Our Masters programmes are open to talented and highly-motivated
arts and social sciences graduates, with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

If you are interested in this program, visit the School of Law's website or stop by Dr. Wood's office to pick up a packet of information.

Discount on LSAT Prep (Kaplan)

[Note: This information is provided as a courtesy to UNLV Students. UNLV Prelaw does not endorse any particular test preparation company.]

Before final exams begin, it’s time to get serious about your LSAT prep. We’d like to offer you a chance to take advantage of an amazing offer! When you sign up for the #1 LSAT course before April 30th you’ll save $200* on any of Kaplan’s comprehensive course options. It doesn’t matter where your plans take you this summer; Kaplan has a comprehensive prep option that is right for you!

If you are staying in the Las Vegas Area, there are still a few seats left in the following classes:

5/11/2009 LSLV9006 : LSAT UNLV Mon/Tue/Wed/Thu

If you’re taking the June LSAT, this is your last chance to take a comprehensive course and get these savings! Enroll today and start your prep tomorrow! If you’re taking the September LSAT, reserve your seat in the class of your choice TODAY!

If you’re taking the LSAT this June – or any time in the next year, now is the time to enroll! Call 1-800-KAPTEST to enroll today or visit us at www.kaptest.com/lsat to reserve your seat in the May 11 class or any of our other upcoming classes in your area. Seats are limited – don’t miss your chance to take advantage of this great offer! Remember, you have to enroll before April 30th to get this savings – so enroll today!

Political Science Internships

Internships for Academic Credit in Political Science for Summer & Fall, 2009

For information, contact the Political Science Internship Coordinator:
Dr. Steve Parker (702) 249-5527

The Internship Coordinator's office has announced openings in the following groups:

Each of Nevada's five members of Congress will have positions available:

• Representative Dina Titus (Vegas & D.C.)
• Representative Dean Heller (Vegas)
• Representative Shelly Berkley (Vegas)
• Senator John Ensign (Vegas)
• Senator Harry Reid (Vegas)

The Consumer Advocacy Group (a lobbying firm)

The Nevada State Democratic Party

The Nevada State Republican Party

A variety of administrative agencies (such as the US Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Land Management, etc.) that may be interested in interns, depending on qualifiation and experience.

Local law offices (found by students and coordinated by Dr. Parker)

LSAC Fee Waivers 2009-2010

The Law School Admission Council dedicates funds, through its Fee Waiver Program, to support law school access for all applicants regardless of their ability to pay for the LSAT and associated services. Applicants can apply online for fee waivers directly through LSAC, or through an ABA-approved law school.

1. General Information
The 2009-2010 LSAC Fee Waiver will be valid for up to two years and will cover the following LSAC services only:

Two LSATs $ 264.00
Credential Assembly Service (LSDAS) $ 169.00
(4 reports, LOR)
The Official LSAT SuperPrep $ 28.00

Total $ 461.00

To be considered for a fee waiver, you'll need to be a US citizen, a US national, or a permanent resident alien of the United States with an Alien Registration Receipt Card. Fee waivers are intended for only the most needy applicants, and you'll need to demonstrate this by including some of your income information on the application. You should only apply if you really can't afford the fees.

You can apply through the LSAC or through an ABA-approved law school, but all allplications must go through the LSAC. To apply online, go to the LSAC's Fee Waiver website. If you apply through a law school, you should make sure to allow enough time for the school to process and return the form to the LSAC before the registration deadline for the LSAT you'd like to take.

New LSAC Information Book Available

The new Law School Admission Information Books for 2009-2010 have arrived in Dr. Wood's office. These books include the newest information about the LSAT (including rules and dates) as well as the LSDAS. Pick up a copy in Dr. Wood's office or in the Political Science Department's main office.

preLaw Magazine

The Spring 2009 Issue of preLaw Magazine has arrived in Dr. Wood's office! She's got heaps of copies, so be sure to drop by and pick one up before they are available on the National Jurist's website! In this issue, read about

• financial aid in an era of financial uncertainty,
• the online law school trend,
• the story of domestic violence victim and law student, Jana Mackey and the website created in her honor,
• reflections from Obama and Biden about their time as lecturers in law school,
• diversity in the law school classroom, and
• the "First Year Survival Guide: 15 Things You Should Know"

Find Dr. Wood's office in Wright Hall building A room 214.

$1000 for Student Research!

Students Can Win $1,000 for Their Research

The UNLV University Libraries Lance and Elena Calvert Award for Undergraduate Research rewards sophisticated and original research with a $1,000 prize. Up to four awards will be given this year, and any undergraduate who has completed a research project that incorporated University Libraries resources this semester can apply. Research papers, documentaries, business and marketing plans, speeches, websites, and other multimedia projects are all eligible for entry. For award rules and guidelines, the online application, and examples of past winners' work, go to http://www.library.unlv.edu/award.

Questions about the award can be sent to jd.kotula@unlv.edu.

More information can be found here: http://www.library.unlv.edu/award


Contact: JD Kotula
Email: jd.kotula@unlv.edu
Phone: 702-895-2103

Prelaw Events (Kaplan)

[Note: This information is provided as a courtesy to UNLV Students. UNLV Prelaw does not endorse any particular test preparation company.]

Kaplan is putting on three events in April:

Free LSAT Class - 4/13/2009

Learn some of Kaplan’s exclusive strategies and methods to raise your LSAT score. An expert LSAT teacher will provide information on the structure and scoring of the exam, strategies you can use on tough questions types, and an overview of Kaplan’s LSAT course and materials.

Law School Experience (Mock 1L Class) - 4/18/2009

Experience a mock law school class and get inside tips on what to expect during your first year. You will also work through an actual case, taught using the Socratic Method, and participate in an analysis of the legal issues.

Law School Personal Statement Workshop - 4/21/2009

Learn how to write a winning personal statement that gets the attention of law school admissions officers. Develop essay topics based on your vision, goals and accomplishments; focus your theme and get expert tips on writing and editing.

For more information on these and other events, see the events calendar on the UNLV Prelaw Facebook Fan Page.

Practice LSAT (Princeton Review)

[Note: This information is provided as a courtesy to UNLV Students. UNLV Prelaw does not endorse any particular test preparation company.]

Are You Ready for the LSAT?

Don’t wait until Test Day to find out. Last year, 87,800 students competed for about 56,000 spots at law schools across America. With competition this fierce, a higher LSAT score can put you ahead of the pack. Put your skills to the test by taking a full-length, real LSAT. It’s a great way to discover your strengths and weaknesses and become comfortable with the exam’s format. You’ll get a personal, detailed score report that breaks down your performance on each section of the LSAT.

FREE LSAT Practice Test
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2009
Time: 1pm to 4:30pm
Location: The Princeton Review – Summerlin Classrooms
1151 S. Buffalo Dr.. Suite 110, Las Vegas, NV 89117

To reserve your spot, call us at 800-2Review (800-273-8439) or register at PrincetonReview.com/LSATTestWeek.

Space is limited, so act now!

-UNLV Prelaw on behalf of Princeton Review

LSAT 101 Webinar

The Michigan State University College of Law invites prelaw students to participate in "LSAT 101," an online meeting (webinar) that will be hosted on Tuesday, April 7 from 7:00 to 7:45 p.m. (EST).

"LSAT 101" will provide an informative overview of the Law School Admission Test. Mr. David Lynch, Director of Curriculum Development for a national test-prep company, will be the featured presenter. He will explain the various sections of the LSAT, offer suggestions for LSAT preparation, and provide tips for creating an LSAT prep plan. Additionally, Dean of Admissions Charles Roboski will offer comments regarding the role of the LSAT in the application-review process. Following the 35-minute presentation, there will be a 10-minute question and answer session.

As "LSAT 101" is an online meeting (webinar), participants will need to have access to the internet and a phone connection. Advance registration is required. Click here to register now!

John Marshall Tuition Waiver Contest

The Sixth Annual National Undergraduate Diversity Mock Trial Competition
Friday, March 27 through Saturday, March 28
Open to teams and individuals!

The mock trial competition at John Marshall will bring three-member teams of sophomores to seniors from around the country to compete on Friday and Saturday, March 27th and 28th, 2009. Individual competitors are also welcome, as teams will be assigned upon arrival.
Law students will be on hand to assist in coordinating the program, and opportunities will be provided for the competing teams to interact with our law students to learn more about the law school experience.

Deadline to Register: March 20. Click here for more information and application materials. Find the case materials here.

Summer Term Courses @ UNLV

Summer Term 2009 @ UNLV

Dates for Summer Term 2009
Summer Term I: May 11 to May 29
Summer Term II: June 1 to July 3
Summer Term III: July 6 to August 7

Registration begins March 9, 2009

The Summer Term 2009 Schedule
is now available. Click here to view

For more information, see UNLV's Summer Term website.

New LSAT Identification Requirements

New ID Regulation for Admission to LSAT

Beginning with the June 2008 exam, only government-issued photo IDs with signatures, such as passports and photo drivers licenses, are acceptable IDs for admission to the LSAT. Student IDs are no longer allowed.

Diversity Campaign

DiscoverLaw.org Campaign Targets Diverse Early College Students

DiscoverLaw.org is an intensive, integrated campaign designed to encourage racially and ethnically diverse first- and second-year college students to discover career opportunities in law and to choose a path in undergraduate school that helps them get there.
The cornerstone of the DiscoverLaw.org campaign is http://www.discoverlaw.org/, which features examples of the need for lawyers worldwide, access to law school experts who can answer students’ questions, profiles and advice from diverse law school graduates, and a timeline outlining steps undergraduate students can take to prepare themselves to be a successful law school applicant.

Scholarship Program

Minority Corporate Counsel Association, Inc.'s Lloyd M. Johnson, Jr. Scholarship Program

With the Minority Corporate Counsel Association, Inc.'s Lloyd M. Johnson, Jr. Scholarship Program, students can receive up to $30,000 ($10,000 for each year of their legal education)! Some students will also receive mentoring and access to summer employment opportunities. To be eligible: a student must have a GPA of at least 3.2. For more information and application materials, please visit: http://www.uncf.org/forstudents/scholarDetailSGA.asp?id=305
You may direct questions concerning the Minority Corporate Counsel Association’s Scholarship Program to Alice Sykes at 703.205.3514 or alice.sykes@uncf.org.

preLaw Magazine

Dr. Wood has copies of the last few issues of National Jurist's preLaw magazine available in her office. In this month's issue, learn about th most innovative law schools, plus where to go for intellectual property & technology law or advocacy & dispute resolution. Don't want to take the LSAT? Find out which top law school is dropping the LSAT requirements for its outstanding undergrads. Could this be the wave of the future? (Boyd?!)

This is magazine is a great resource for prelaw students at any stage of the process! Come by and pick up a few copies. Dr. Wood's office hours are M/W from 10 until 12. If you can't make it during those times, send her an e-mail and she'll leave a copy for you on her bulletin board. For more information about this resource, as well as a full online version of the magazine, see the preLaw magazine's fantastic website.

FSU's Summer Program DEADLINE!

Applications Due for FSU's Undergrad Program! Florida State University College of Law’s 2009 Summer for Undergraduates Program Applications must be postmarked March 21 for the law school’s intensive, four-week program. This program provides interested students, particularly those from groups historically underrepresented in the legal profession, with an inside look at law school and the legal profession. The program will run from May 18-June 12, 2009
For more information, visit:
http://www.law.fsu.edu/summer_undergraduates/thinkingaboutlawschool.htm

Leadership Nevada Accepting Applications NOW!

National Education for Women’s (NEW) Leadership Nevada is a non-partisan, statewide, leadership and empowerment program of the Women's Research Institute of Nevada (WRIN) at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Through skill-building workshops, panel discussions and thought provoking conversations, students learn to see themselves as leaders with the confidence to explore public leadership positions.

The Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP) at Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, developed the innovative program in 1991 and branched out to invite other universities into its Development Network. In 2001, the Women's Research Institute of Nevada accepted CAWP’s invitation to join the NEW Leadership Development Network and in 2003, held its first program. The Women's Research Institute of Nevada at UNLV offers the only site in the southwestern and Rocky Mountain states to host this program.
During the program, you will:

• Mentor with talented and successful Nevada women leaders
• Discover your ability to lead through hands-on skills building
• Create networks with students & leaders from across Nevada
• Learn the needed tools to make a difference.
• Explore the demands of justice based, effective, and ethical leadership in a diverse society.
• Attend informal sessions with Nevada’s finest leaders in politics business, gaming, education, law, community activism, and more!

This Residential training program is scheduled for June 1-6, 2009 on the UNLV campus, and is offered at No Cost!

Meals, housing, transportation, and program materials are paid for by the Women’s Research Institute of Nevada and our community partners

ELIGIBILITY:
Open to any student attending a Nevada college or university who has an interest in learning about women’s leadership and who wants to develop their own leadership skills. Also open to Nevada residents attending school out-of-state. Seniors who are graduating in the spring of 2009 are eligible to apply.

Applications available on the website.

DEADLINE: MARCH 13th, 2009.

** We are extending the deadline through the end of March. PLEASE get your applications in as soon as possible**

Please turn in application & essay as soon as possible, the letters of recommendation can come later.

Feel free to contact Diana Rhodes, Program Director, for more information or if you have questions.