Law schools follow closely with the military training model. First, they break you down and then they build you back up the way they want you. This means that, for most students, the hardest part is the first year. Surviving this is certainly not impossible, evidenced by the numerous attorneys available in any given phone book, but it will be difficult. The first thing you need to do to survive is realize this and prepare for it.

There are three basic area that you will need to focus on the most in order to survive law school and become a successful graduate. These are study habits, social habits, and mental and physical health. The first focuses on your ability to learn and retain the material. The second focuses on both your ability to apply the material and to work with your peers. The third, and possibly the most important, supports your ability to focus on the first two. Following is a list for each that will help you address law school with a positive attitude.

Study Habits:

* Before you even begin your first semester, see if your school has a reading list available. If they do, read the books and materials that they recommend. Schools provide this to help you be a successful student and you will be a step ahead if you read them before you begin school.

* Most importantly, read all assigned readings for your courses. Professors will often ask you intense questions relating to the reading and if you don't do the reading they will continue to call on you every class period until you do. This will also effect your final grade and the first year is not the time to let your grades slip.

* Also, sit down every Friday and outline both what you have read and what you have learned in class. This will help you study for exams down the road.

* Next, get involved with a good study group. This will allow you to get to know your classmates and get help with anything you don't understand. Remember, though, when your study group helps you, reciprocate this as much as possible.

* Familiarize yourself with the library quickly. There will be many resources available, such as horn books or practice manuals, that will prove very useful throughout your academic career.

* Know how to write a case brief. If you have not learned how to brief a case in your undergraduate classes, learn. Much of your work in law school will involve briefing cases.

* Most of all, do the work and go to class. Your grades can effect your future job prospects

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