Break Into Law School® Podcast
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Break into Law School® is the podcast for students who are ready to break down generational barriers to law school and walk confidently into their future.
This podcast provides transparent, quality, and ethical law school advice in a way that is uplifting and relatable.
Sydney Montgomery, Esq, is a law school admissions consultant specializing in working with first-generation and minority applicants. She herself is a first-generation graduate of Princeton and Harvard Law School. Through Barrier Breakers®, she and our team have helped over 7,000 students gain admission to law school.
Are you struggling with information overload? Are you getting lost in Reddit and Google? Are you feeling stuck, not sure what to write about, not sure how to even begin the application process? Join a community of students who are choosing to stop the cycle of confusion and missed opportunities and find quality and ethical answers to their application questions.
No scare tactics here. No tearing people down. No shaming anyone. This show is all about leading with love, uplifting you, and encouraging you as you step confidently into your career as an attorney.
Meet Your Hosts
Ep 122: What to Know as a Law School Applicant with a Disability
In this episode, Sydney shares her personal journey of navigating law school admissions while dealing with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and neurodivergence. Drawing from her own experience with fibromyalgia, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, Sydney addresses the challenges faced during law school, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and seeking support. She covers practical advice for applying to law school with health considerations, obtaining accommodations for exams, and the significance of transparency in the workplace as a lawyer with physical or mental health challenges. Sydney's insights provide a valuable resource for individuals facing similar obstacles on their path to becoming successful attorneys.
Ep 121: Using Your Law Degree For Good with Victim Rights Law Center
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Nora Grais-Clements, a dedicated attorney working in victims' rights law. Nora shares her inspiring journey from unconventional law school entry to her impactful work at the Victim Rights Law Center. She highlights the importance of using a law degree for positive change, emphasizing the need to be upstream in the work, contributing to healing rather than perpetuating trauma. Nora delves into the foundation and mission of the Victim Rights Law Center, the first nonprofit in the U.S. focusing on the needs of sexual assault survivors. Nora also shares valuable insights on maintaining emotional well-being in this challenging field, emphasizing the importance of proactive self-care and setting boundaries.
Ep 120: Starting a Law Firm in Your 20s with Purple Fox Legal
In this episode, Alyssa Devine, founder of Purple Fox Legal, shares her journey from considering veterinary medicine to specializing in intellectual property law. The conversation covers her initial interest in criminal law, the importance of emotional endurance, and the pivotal moment that led her to shift her career focus. Alyssa discusses the challenges of balancing legal and business decisions, emphasizing the significance of relationships in the legal profession and offering networking tips for introverts. Reflecting on her experience as a young entrepreneur, she provides advice for those considering entrepreneurship in the legal field and stresses the importance of practical experiences in law school. Alyssa also explains the origin of the name Purple Fox Legal and directs interested individuals to find resources on their website and engaging content on LinkedIn and Instagram. The episode serves as a valuable resource for aspiring lawyers, entrepreneurs, and those intrigued by the intersection of law and business.
Ep 119: Navigating the Law School Application Process with Confidence with William & Mary Law School
In this episode, Nadia interviews Associate Dean for Admissions & Financial, Issa DiSciullo, from William & Mary Law School. They discuss various aspects of the law school application process and share valuable insights and advice for prospective law students. Issa emphasizes the importance of taking control of your application and showcasing your unique story, highlights the supportive and collaborative atmosphere at William & Mary, and encourages applicants to recognize their own accomplishments and remember that they belong in the legal profession. This episode provides valuable guidance for individuals navigating the law school application process and offers a glimpse into the inclusive and supportive community at William & Mary Law School.
Ep 118: Top 3 Mistakes Applicants Make on Their Law School Resume
In this episode, Cynthia discusses the significance of law school resumes. She delves into three key mistakes: not tailoring the resume to law schools, neglecting the skills and interest section, and overlooking typos and formatting errors. Cynthia provides practical tips, such as focusing on personal accomplishments, using appropriate language in the skills and interest section, and ensuring a polished, easy-to-read format. Additionally, she addresses the issue of employment gaps, encouraging applicants to provide explanations rather than leaving the admissions committee to infer details. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights for prospective law school applicants seeking to create effective and tailored resumes.
Ep 117: The Mental Health & Wellness Crisis in the Legal Field with Jennifer DiSanza
In this episode, we delve into a critical topic often overlooked in the legal journey – mental health and wellbeing. LoVetta is joined by Jennifer DiSanza to discuss the challenges students face as they transition from undergrad to law school, how to set boundaries, the importance of self-care, and the role of mindfulness in maintaining a healthy balance during the rigorous demands of law school.
Ep 116: Effects of Affirmative Action on Law School Essay Prompts
In this video, Sydney and Alice discuss the changed application prompts for law school admissions in light of the Supreme Court's Race Conscious Affirmative Action ruling. We explore how these changes affect applicants and offer insights on how to approach the new prompts. We also delve into the evolving landscape of law school applications, providing valuable advice for prospective students and shedding light on the impact of these changes on the application cycle. If you're a first-generation or minority law school applicant, this video is a must-watch.
Ep 115: How to Write Strong "Why X" Essays for Law School
In this episode, Dr. Nadia Castriota discusses the how to write strong "Why X" School Essays for law school. She highlights the need to follow school-specific instructions, make personal connections to the institution, and maintain consistency throughout your application materials.Her advice centers on staying organized, being authentic, and understanding that admissions committees aim to create a diverse class that aligns with your goals and the school's mission.
Ep 114: A Deep Dive Into Life as a Labor Law Attorney with Bernstein Shur
Join us for an inspiring conversation as we delve into the world of labor and employment law as well as LLM programs with Tara Walker. Discover how Tara's unconventional journey from a tiny Alaskan town led her to specialize in labor law. Find out how her LLM program in Europe transformed her perspective on constitutional rights and influenced her career. Tara shares her insights and experiences in this episode, offering valuable advice for aspiring lawyers. Don't miss this eye-opening discussion on the intersection of law, policy, and making a difference.
Ep 113: Are Law School Early Decision Programs Worth It?
In this episode, Sydney discusses the intricacies of early action, early decision, and rolling admissions in the context of law school applications. She addresses common misconceptions and offers insights into the advantages and considerations of applying under various admission timelines, including early action and early decision. The episode also delves into how applying early may impact scholarships and financial considerations for law school applicants. Listen in as we provide valuable advice and debunk myths surrounding the application process.
Ep 112: A Lifetime of Supporting Applicants: Meet Dr. Nadia Castriota, Law School Admissions Consultant
We have yet another special guest, Dr. Nadia Castriota, who has joined the Barrier Breakers® team as a consultant. In this episode, Dr. Castriota and discusses her extensive experience in law school admissions. Nadia shares her background, her journey through higher education, and her passion for supporting students from diverse backgrounds, including moms and those with various life experiences. She offers valuable advice for aspiring law school applicants, emphasizing the importance of seeking support and resources throughout the admissions process.
Ep 111: How to Ace Your Law School Exams with Jeremy Paul + Richard Michael Fischl
In this insightful interview, coauthors of the book "Getting to Maybe: How to Excel on Law School Exams," Jeremy Paul and Richard Fischl, share their wisdom on excelling in law school exams. They discuss the origins of the book, the common mistakes students make, and essential skills for success. Discover valuable tips and perspectives to help you break into law school with confidence. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insights from experienced educators and authors who have guided countless students to success in law school.
Ep 110: Applying to Law School as a Puerto Rican: What Are My Options?
In this episode, Cynthia Rivera discusses the key factors and components that make up a strong law school application, with a specific focus on applicants from Puerto Rico. She covers topics such as the LSAT, language proficiency, application requirements, and the importance of researching law schools. Whether you're applying to a law school in Puerto Rico or in the United States, this video provides valuable insights for all of it.
Ep 109: Application Strategies for Aspiring Law Students with Wisconsin Law
Join us for an engaging conversation with Rebecca Scheller, Associate Dean for Admissions and Financial Aid at the University of Wisconsin Law School. In this interview, we delve into her journey into admissions, share valuable application tips, and explore the ways the university supports first-generation BIPOC students. Discover the unique aspects of the Wisconsin Law School program and gain insights into the application process. Don't miss out on this informative discussion!
Ep 108: Navigating The Legal Game: Finance & Sports Law with CJ Donald
Welcome to another episode of Break Into Law School! In this insightful conversation, our host, LoVetta Jenkins, sits down with CJ Donald, a seasoned lawyer specializing in financial transactions and sports law at Hayes and Boone LLP. CJ shares his journey from college to law school, providing valuable insights for aspiring law students and those interested in sports law and finance.
Ep 107: How to Manage Burnout During the Law School Application Process
In this episode, Alice discusses burnout during the law school application process. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, leaning on friends for support, and maintaining a social life while navigating the demanding application journey. Alice provides valuable insights and advice to help applicants avoid burnout and make the most of their law school application experience. If you're feeling overwhelmed or worried about burnout, watch this video for guidance and remember that taking care of yourself is essential.
Ep 106: Empowering Future Latinx Lawyers: Meet Cynthia Rivera, Law School Admissions Consultant
In celebration of National Latinx Heritage Month, meet Cynthia Rivera, one of our newest Law School Associate Consultants. Learn about her inspiring journey as a first-generation Puerto Rican college graduate and lawyer and discover how she's helping first-gen and minority law school applicants succeed. Join us in this insightful interview as we discuss her experiences, insights into law school admissions, and her passion for increasing diversity in the legal field. Don't miss this opportunity to get to know Cynthia and gain valuable insights into your law school application journey.
Ep 105: Best Tips & Practices To Get Through Law School with DeAndré Aubry
Join us for an insightful conversation with DeAndré Aubry, founder of Legally Fit, as he shares his journey from a first-generation law student to a successful attorney and educator. Discover valuable tips for thriving in law school and preparing for the bar exam. In this episode, DeAndre discusses the importance of preparing your life for law school, breaking down common mistakes law students make, and the need for better support and representation for BIPOC students in legal education. He also introduces Legally Fit's services, including law school coaching and bar prep, and highlights the 1L Club, a valuable resource for first-year law students. Whether you're a pre-law student or already in law school, this conversation offers essential insights to help you succeed in your legal education journey.
Ep 104: How to Edit Your Law School Personal Statement: A Live Review
Today is a different kind of episode. Join Alice for a live personal statement editing session. Get expert insights into crafting a compelling law school personal statement. Alice reviews a sample statement, offers editing tips, and emphasizes the power of storytelling. Discover how to make your application stand out.
Ep 103: From Incarceration to Esquire: Kaysia Earley's Journey Through Faith
In today's episode, LoVetta Jenkins is joined by Kaysia Earley, Esq, an award-winning lawyer with a powerful story. After being incarcerated while pregnant, Kaysia reconnected with her faith and started on her path to becoming a lawyer. Today, she is one of South Florida’s top trial attorneys.