Facebook reminded me of a friend’s question a few years ago. He was a few weeks away from starting his first year of law school and he reached out to me and a few others to ask: “What do you wear in law school?” I recall someone else asking me if they had to wear suits every day.
So, in case you’re wondering what to wear or what supplies to invest in to ensure you’re ready and centered as you begin 1L (or 2L or 3L or 4L), this blog post and this checklist are for you!
Starting law school is a significant milestone, and having the right tools and mindset can make all the difference. Whether you’re an incoming law student or already in the midst of your law school journey, preparing yourself with the essentials and prioritizing self-care are crucial steps toward your success.
Here’s a checklist that covers various topics from essential supplies to self-care items to ensure you’re well-prepared and balanced as you navigate law school. To save you time, I added links to products on Amazon in the bulleted list below for you to consider. I may earn a commission from purchases made through these affiliate links at no extra cost to you.
Law School Prep Checklist: Essential Supplies & Self-Care
Essential Supplies:
- Notebooks: For handwritten notes, class summaries, or track your to-do’s.
- Laptop/Tablet: For note-taking, research, and writing assignments.
- Binders or Folders: To organize handouts and printed materials.
- Highlighters: For highlighting important information in textbooks and notes.
- Pens & Pencils: For writing and annotating.
- Index Cards: For creating flashcards and study aids.
- Sticky Notes: For marking pages and adding quick notes in textbooks.
- Planner/Calendar: To keep track of deadlines, assignments, and exam dates.
Study Environment:
- Desk Lamp: For adequate lighting during late-night study sessions.
- Comfortable Chair: To support long hours of studying.
- Ear Plugs: To minimize distractions while studying and taking exams.
- Noise Cancelling Headphones: To minimize distractions while studying.
Self-Care:
- Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial.
- Healthy Snacks: Nuts, fruits, and protein bars for sustained energy.
- Protein Drinks: A tasty protein drink can help when on the go!
- Fitness Gear: Yoga mat, resistance bands, or dumbbells for quick workouts.
- Journal: For reflecting on your day and managing stress.
- Habit Tracker: Track your wellness goals and habits.
- Meditation Apps: Headspace, Calm, or Insight Timer for guided relaxation.
- Stress Balls or Fidget Toys: To manage anxiety.
- Books for Pleasure: Non-law-related reading to unwind. (Side note: I read the Sookie Stackhouse book series when I was in law school and needed a break!)
- Favorite Music Playlist: To uplift your mood or help you relax.
- Art Supplies: Sketchbooks, coloring books, or craft kits for creative outlets.
Clothing and Accessories:
- Comfortable, Smart Casual Clothing & Shoes: Stay comfy while looking stylish. No, you don’t wear suits to class, but you want to look and feel good.
- Dark Colored Business Suit: For interviews, networking events, or court.
- White Dress Shirt: A button-up white shirt is a classic.
- Comfortable Dress Shoes or Pumps: Black or brown are classic colors.
- Professional Bag: Laptop bag or handbag for interviews or your internship.
Remember, this checklist is just a starting point. Customize it to suit your individual needs and preferences. The goal is to support you so you’re not only academically prepared but also taking care of your physical and mental well-being.
You can download and share the checklist here.
As you embark on this exciting journey, keep in mind that law school is demanding but incredibly rewarding. Take care of yourself, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when needed. Good luck, and here’s to a successful and fulfilling law school experience!
Disclosure: I may earn a commission from purchases made through these affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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