As a law school professor, thank you for sharing your story. I've been thinking for some time that we assign too much reading, especially in the first year--no time for self-reflection when all someone does is read the material for class. I appreciate the feedback, which will help me to become a better teacher.
I’m glad to see you came across my video. It means a lot to hear from a law school professor who is taking the initiative to learn from law students and the challenges they face. 👍🏽
I have a cousin who never studied much,we studied together but she gives most of her time to her phone than studies after writing LSAT, she passed and I failed😣, I asked her how she did it, just found out she got her help from Mr Thomas ..
You are quite correct on most of those points about law school. One advice I would offer current and prospective law students is, (1) don't just read cases for the sake of cold calls but as you read follow the topics taught; and (2) simultaneously work on your outline using those cases and other helpful resources. Review and correct your notes as soon as possible.
I agree Samora. Outlining and updating notes is so helpful to grasping the concepts and tying them to the scope of the class. Thanks for the additional advice!
Edgar, as far fetched as it sounds, we are all getting into this profession together so we should at no point refrain from dutifully assisting each other. After all, that's the niche of our carrier when we become lawyers.
I don't know whether you've considered returning to law school, but every one of those weaknesses that you mentioned can be remediated. I've taught for the past 32 years and have encountered many students who've experienced the very difficulties you've enumerated. I was very impressed with your self knowledge and humility. I wish you the very best.----Todd.
As a fellow young immigrant who always struggled with asking for help -- especially in academic settings, I find it a "very immigrant thing" to have difficulty asking for help. What people don't realise is that we are the kids our families depend on for MANY things; whether that is taking care of our younger siblings or working to provide, figuring out our family's financial situation and being a translator 24/7, we are thrown into an entirely different world and are expected to "deliver"...This all relates to our obsession with being self sufficient and being the helpers. I remember not wanting to "burden my professors" in office hours, just as I remember not wanting to adjust to this country's toxic and counterproductive All-Nighter Culture. I admire you for sharing your story and I am 100% sure you are Intelligent enough to represent any client you wish in the future! You did not "fail" because you failed to tackle your weaknesses, you "failed" because a part of your identity wired you to think that doing so just wasn't a possibility. You'll do amazing things in life, Edgar! Keep on going. It takes us twice the effort, but we always get there.
@Anxhela Ndrio Thanks for sharing this interesting perspective. I certainly hadn't thought about it like this. And like you said, we always get there, one way or another.
I've recently just finished my first semester of law school, and I completely relate to everything you said. The time constraint was definitely a huge hurdle for me, and all the readings made me feel drained about halfway through the semester. I was thankful that my professors assigned the class to do a practice test or an actual midterm in my Torts professor's case. Those forced exams made me felt more prepared for their testing style; however, outside those practices, I found myself strained and was not able to actually do further practice tests. One piece of advice I have for upcoming 1L students is: don't start outlining 1 month before finals (in my case, two weeks). This is when you will have the least amount of time because this is usually when the open memos are due and will be the most stressed-out moment of the whole semester. It is best to start outlining as you complete a topic as it helps with review and comprehension for upcoming topics. As I type this, I am waiting for my grades to be released, and it is terrifying.
Hey Edgar. Thanks for making this video. I could feel the rawness and vulnerability in your testimony. To be open like this, and to be able to directly identify and confront your failures takes an immense amount of character. Many people might have tried to shift the blame, or to completely bury the experience to avoid the uncomfortable experience that you just went through, and what's more, you did it publicly. I hope others see this video and learn from your strength and courage, I know that I certainly have. You're absolutely right that it does not define you, and from what I've seen in this video, it wasn't a failure at all. I believe that you will remember this as an important step to all that you are sure to accomplish. Good luck in your future Edgar, and Godspeed.
I’m not a law student yet. I’m applying for law school for Fall 2021. But from all of my research I found that having solid study partners is very important. Also, it’s good to be prepared for cold calls, but it’s not the end all of your grade. Outlining since the beginning of the semester is more important. Using all of the practice exams the professors provide is key. And lastly, having one on one appts. with your professors is also very important so they can guide you when you need help. I’m afraid of what’s in store for me next fall, but I know there are plenty of resources I can use to prepare me from even before I start my 1L year. To me it sounds like you went in thinking it would be like undergrad. There’s no question that you are smart, you did get accepted into a tier 1 school. I just think you probably underestimated the beast called law school. If being a lawyer is what you still want to be, it’s not over. Get back up, apply again, and change your strategy. Use this time to enhance your writing skills. Best of luck to you.
Edgar, this was extremely eye opening for me. I'm applying for law school this coming month and the fear is already setting in for me. I know in my heart I will be accepted into a law school, but there's a thought that creeps into my head once in a while, "what if I'm not ready?". This video hit home. I know I need to be an attorney and I know it's going to be the hardest three years of my life. Thank you so much for sharing your story and I know you're going to be successful in whatever it is you chose to pursue. I wish you the best of luck my brother. Thank you so much!
@@EdgarNavarrete You seem to be a brilliant guy, and I think you could have still made it through the JD. I respect your decision to abandon the Juris Doctor program. I am also a former refugee immigrant from war-torn South Sudan, and I came to Australia close to 16 years ago without parents under a special humanitarian visa program. I did a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering(honours), work there for about 5 years. I lost my job due to covid19, I then decided to do JD this semester 2 (now). It's tough, in the way you explained in this video. I am struggling with English, and advance writing seems to be very challenging. I am doing 3 units at the movement at 75% load of a semester. Let me know if you have any further advice. God bless you and wish you the best luck.
I am so happy to have found your channel! I am also DACAmented, working for a non-profit law Firm in Orange County in the immigration department. I am currently finishing my undergraduate degree and I hope to apply to law school soon. I look forward to watching more of your videos 🙏🏾
You don't understand how important this video is. I am doing a dual law degree and I failed my 1L and am currently retaking it. I'm miserable for basically all the reasons you are. I don't know if I want to continue
Hi Edgar, thank you for sharing your story and you experience. I am currently a 1L in Texas and I couldn't agree more that law school is difficult and it consists of a lot of highs and lows. I hope that your video is a wake up call for those who are considering or who are already in law school and take your advice to be a successful law student. Law school will really humble every and any one who takes on it. Good luck with any future endeavors!
Hey Edgar, thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your story with us. I know you are bright and you will succeed in whatever you choose to dedicate your time towards. Keep your chin held high, this video will help a lot of people. Your journey is just beginning. Best of luck as you decide next life moves! Much love brotha Edgar. Liked & subbed
As someone who just finished their first semester, I can completely agree with everything you have said! This is encouraging to know that I am not the only person who feels this.
i think being a philosophy major will help me because like you mentioned all my finals or assignments were always papers no multiple choices. the reading and comprehension i think is the most important factor. thanks for this video
Practice multiple choice questions. In 3/4 classes 30%+ of my grade is from MCQ. I was also a philosophy major, but I’ve noticed that being overly analytic/picky regarding the usage of words has been detrimental to MCQ’s. Good luck!
I think you're amazingly smart anyway, that you were able to get into the law school. IDK why you're an undocumented immigrant. Your English is perfect.
Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing your story. Hindsight really is 20/20. It's so hard in the moment to figure out what will really help you move forward, to the point where it can really become so overwhelming that the most logical option seems to be just moving on to something completely different. I'm happy to see that you chose to grow from your experience rather than letting it be your downfall. You have a really optimistic outlook in this video that I think will really help law students who are struggling. I hope you're on to bigger and better things!
Edgar, this was very courageous and honest. I think it's very easy for law students to get so overwhelmed by the sheer volume of cases, that they end up standing too close to their subject and can't see the higher-level principles. When you're working flat out just to cover the material there's the fear that time spent writing practice exam answers is time wasted. Law exams about "problem solving" - that is applying a set of principles to a fact situation, so turning all that memory work into a set of rules and principles you can apply to arrive at a solution or a number of potential solutions takes practice & experience. I wish you well for the future.
Thank you Edgar for sharing your story. As a nursing major myself, I’m facing some of the same problems academically. Thank you for this insight, time for me to take those extra steps to be successful.💚
I am so sorry this happened to you, I wish u the best on your next journey. I'm sure you will do great because as u said u are a hard worker. You should keep pursuing your goals if you're passionate about them, just keep practising where u are lacking. I also learnt the hard way, not reading enough. Also, you are right, practising writing is key to succeeding in courses that are essay-based. I'm a classics graduate and a recent post-graduate in Human Rights and International relations and I can tell you all you learn is literally how to read more scholarly arguments and how to write a convincing . That's it, u get to learn how to use SPSS and ways to collect data but u learn it in just one lecture. It's all about reading and writing.
@Kristine Carreon Thanks for watching and sharing advice from your personal experiences. I agree with you 100%! It's all about reading, understanding what you read, and writing compelling arguments for different sides of the issue.
Edgar, let me begin by telling you how admirable your transparency and introspection is. Everything you have said is so profound and I would like to communicate with you further. You will make the impact you say you want to make and you're already well on your way with just your words alone. If you have a preferred social media or email to communicate through, do not hesitate to let me know. I wish you all the best in your walk of life and thank you for your video.
Just finished the video. You are a great soul Edgar. I really am happy you have found happiness outside of law school. You are a smart guy don't let law school define who as you said! You will and seem to have made a difference for your community. You have earned a like and a subscription. God bless!
Edgar, thank you brother, I had to check myself. I appreciate you being transparent. And 1,000% your failures do not define you. Others will try to define you by them, But God opened my eyes to show me, a failure may be a "season", but they Do Not define us.
Oh dear right from the jump your Undergraduate major was a huge factor that most likely led to your demise in law school. Most law Students are Liberal Arts Majors. Because our majors have a strong focus on Reading and Writing. Extreme written and verbal communication skills. Political Science or even English or History would have prepared you more for the reading load/ Comprehension. Not that it's comparable but.. And, The written exams that's all we do as Political Science students; is take written exams. I am so sorry that you went through this experience. But it sounds like you got some great job and intern experience. Which lawyers and per- law students would kill for. My advice would be to appeal and re-apply get to your 2L and take the Patent bar instead which has more of a science componate. Don't give up you can do this we need more empathic, and understanding people like you in the legal field. LOl, I Love this video means so much to me. To hear from someone like you and see how open and honest your being is so brave and downright inspiring thanks so much for sharing!
weird tip, but to practice my writing skill I used the "Am I the Ahole" (AITA) reddit. The posts there provide a story with facts and ask for a judgement. You get to practice issue spotting, applying a rule, explaining your reasoning and a writing it all concisely. its also good distraction lol.
Hearing you talk about self preservation. I'm laid up from a torn rotator cuff surgery. Total rebuild. This is second time on this shoulder. I push myself past self preservation. Your words rang true. I have a lesson I have learned. Don't make money a motivating factor. I have been jobless for not breaking the law. I thought sitting at home instead of sitting in jail was a better route. Opportunities are made, not handed out at rally demanding something for nothing.
I am a medical student and for a while wanted my JD to help with advocating for medical marijuana laws. I will say anyone who is getting a terminal degree stay strong because they are trying to break us down to make us “better” it’s a scam but remember your why ALWAYS!
Hey Edgar! I am just out of law school and I really understand your insight. I'm sorry you went through this situation. As a Mexican American I share some concerns with you. Thank you for this video and I wish you the best!
Law school is challenging but don't let the challenge turn you away. Just don't make the same mistakes I did while I was there. Best of luck on your journey! 👍🏽
I'm just being honest about my law school experience. I hope this video has been able to give insight to others on their law school journey. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for sharing your story. I would like to note/suggest people enroll in a pre-law summer school before 1L. Angel of YT Channel Harvard and Hardship has a pre-law Summer school program that she started for some of the reasons mentioned in this video. There are others who also have or suggest pre-law summer school programs.🙏🏽
I read very little cases in law school. Instead wrote out practice questions. Applying black letter law to facts and arguing why an element was met or not met. Thats it.
It should be noted that young people are no longer naively bedazzled by fictional depictions that deceptively portray the world's most dishonest and aptly despised profession.
I feel the desire is very deep in your heart , you need a mentor, study and test taking stragetic. You need the right resources Dont give up! A WINNER NEVER QUIT AND QUITTER NEVER WINS THERE IS A LAWYER WINNER IN YOU!!!! GO BACK THERE ARE TO MANY RESOURCES. THERE IS A WAY OF DOING THINGS go to the library, surf the internet, especially youtube.
Hi Edgar, first of all thank you for opening up to us. Secondly I would like to ask : are you talking about your experience during earning your JD (bachelor degree) or about your experience during a master degree in law? I just earned my (bachelor) law degree in the Netherlands (which normally takes 3 years) but our education system is different than in the US so I am trying to understand and compare it to studying law in Europe. I think a JD in the US is what we call a bachelor in law in the Netherlands
@Tg00 So in the U.S. students will complete their bachelor's degree in really any major, which usually takes about 4 years. Then, students will apply to law school, which is an additional 3 years to earn the JD degree. It's a little different in the U.S. Almost seems like its a lot longer for sure! In the Netherlands is there a period after obtaining your JD where you're a trainee lawyer?
I’m so sorry for you after listening to this. I really wish you the best. I’m graduating from law school in a week. I think if I may say that you needed to prioritize the areas where you knew you were lacking. If writing was an issue for you definitely focus on that. It’s a common mistake to think you need to know the whole law by heart before you can start writing. You should actually start writing at least 1 month before exams. Writing allows you to understand in which context you should apply the rules, how a good answer looks, etc. That’s actually more important than knowing the law. Anyways, I really wish you the best in your future endeavors.
@@EdgarNavarrete I have been watching other first year law school stories. I thought of you on a couple videos. The first one is "Top Five Worst Things About Law School" by LegalEagle Law School. He made all A's in his first year, but not by following the assignments and working himself to death. The next is "What I wish I knew before starting law school" by Emma Payne Murphy. She dropped out after the first year because of the stress and the overwelming feeling she had to work all the time. This second one might not be worth watching the whole thing. The whole truth is I dropped out after my first year. I am preparing to teach a class on how to cope with the first year of law school. Bless you my brother.
We definitely had a writing class. And they also taught the IRAC and other variations of it. I think I definitely struggled with managing my time and making sure I practiced the writing outside of what was required for class.
was culture shock the biggest reason for why you dropped out? In other words, due to the bureaucratic nature of law and the trade itself, was the adjustment the most significant hurdle? However, I completely understand your struggles (broadly speaking). Prior to working in a firm, I worked as a mover and, like you, I was trying my best despite that area of work being my largest hurdle.
Is it possible to get a job outside of a law firm or a job that is not at the Public Defender,s office, or at the District Attorney,s office, or a job not at a courthouse if you fail out of law school?
Great question! I'm not sure how to answer though. I think I would have to chat with someone going to a highly ranked law school before really saying anything.
Hi Edgar, hope you doing well, I am currently in the first semester of my JD program, I am taking Criminal law, Foundation of law and justice, and contract law. Your video has inspired me and wants your help regarding study approach you would suggest if you were a law student. e.g reading Supreme court cases, chapters reading and any suggestion to study plan? your help will be much appreciated. James
@James Hey! First of all congrats on getting into law school. That's an accomplishment in itself! Honestly, every student is different and has a different learning style. What works for me might not work for you or some else. The biggest piece of advice I can give is to ask your professors. Many times they will recommend different ways to learn their material. Try them out and work with other classmates to discuss the cases and check how you each understood the case. If you're still having trouble go to your professors, that's what they're there to do. It's a tough journey ahead but you can do it! 👍🏽
How many chapters? or How many pages? per day??? are you talking about reading. I can't even understand why law school is so difficult and the tests are so comprehensive, when, whenever, I hire a lawyer, they're often inept and need me to do all the required research, prying and work. Any way...Please let me know some specifics about how much reading is required. Is it reams of copy papers, both sides, fine print??? per day?
Hey Jay! Thanks for watching and asking this question that I think lots of people may have. It honestly depends on the school and more specifically the professor. Each professor has their own way of teaching and requirements for reading. In my first semester experience some professors had us read just a couple of pages while others required us to read up to 100 pages for the next day/class. Yes one of the issues for me personally was keeping up with the amount of reading but another challenge I encountered was having a comprehensive understanding of the concepts. The reading and learning continues for legal professionals beyond law school as the law is changing. At the same time lawyers need have the best understanding possible of a clients case and its specific details. These details will vary from client to client and are essential for a lawyer to understand how the law applies to their individual case. I’m sorry to hear you’ve had some bad experiences with lawyers. I can’t say they’re all good people. Hope this answered some of your questions.
I read so much in law school that I went from never having wore glasses to needed glasses, then a couple of years after law school was over I no longer needed glasses! I noticed it the most when I shifted from looking at my notes to looking at the lecturing professor. So I can say there was so much reading in law school that it affected me physically. That said, I am now a computer science student and I can verify that CS is exponentially harder than law school. Not even close.
Thanks for the question. I’ve definitely thought about going to back to law school. It’s something that crosses my mind frequently but I think for the moment I will take some time off and pursue other things.
Edgar Navarrete thank you for sharing that! I too have recently failed my 1L first semester and have been trying to wrap my head around my next move. You’re authenticity has certainly help me along my journey thank you!
Glad to be able to help. School will always be there so don't stress about going back immediately. There's so many ways that you can still accomplish your goals. The important thing is to keep your head up high, learn from your mistakes, and keep moving forward. 👍🏽
@@mckinleydivinity2365It is POSSIBLE to fail law school and come back better than ever! My journey is living proof. I hope you both consider it. Check out my series of videos I've made for dismissed law students th-cam.com/play/PLD5njAWcMyjEt8Yjk1uzE20cDkYtwqcPk.html
@Sherif Tawfik Great question! I was briefly at a private law school so I can only speak to that experience and even then it may be different at other private law schools. I can't speak to the difficulty of a public law school, if there's any at all.
I came into this video with an open mind but it was exactly what I expected it to be. Excuses. Or more specifically, the same excuse. Time. You said “time constraints” so many times. As if every other student in your classes didn’t have the same amount of time as you. You didn’t fail law school because of time. You failed law school due to lack of commitment. You even had the audacity to say you refused to sacrifice sleep. Sounds like you had no business being in law school in the first place.
Awww 🙂 well, well, well. Go into tech you’ll make more money. Fail fast than fail slow. Imagine graduating law school and still broke! At least you have your life back and no debt .
This guy is the perfect example of why DEI shouldn't be a thing. He was obviously not prepared or qualified to be a law student at UT Austin law school. They didn't do him any favors by admitting him.
As a law school professor, thank you for sharing your story. I've been thinking for some time that we assign too much reading, especially in the first year--no time for self-reflection when all someone does is read the material for class. I appreciate the feedback, which will help me to become a better teacher.
I’m glad to see you came across my video. It means a lot to hear from a law school professor who is taking the initiative to learn from law students and the challenges they face. 👍🏽
So many students know the law and how to apply it, but get tripped up putting it on paper/ blue book.
The legend himself.
Do you teach your kids the law??
Cold calls are fun by the way. Really they are.
I failed 3 times, i lost money to reviews that never helped but the major thing is that I've not lost hope
Passing the LSAT is when you study hard,if you can't study or you don't have time for your studies I'd advise you get yourself help like Mr Thomas
I had interest in working with him but I was discouraged by my friends out of ignorance 😔
I have a cousin who never studied much,we studied together but she gives most of her time to her phone than studies after writing LSAT, she passed and I failed😣, I asked her how she did it, just found out she got her help from Mr Thomas ..
Sometimes hard work doesn’t pay you have to back it up with smartness🤓, I think your cousin understood that perfectly
Please does anyone know who this Mr Thomas is? I really need to speak with him I’m frustrated.
You are quite correct on most of those points about law school. One advice I would offer current and prospective law students is, (1) don't just read cases for the sake of cold calls but as you read follow the topics taught; and (2) simultaneously work on your outline using those cases and other helpful resources. Review and correct your notes as soon as possible.
I agree Samora. Outlining and updating notes is so helpful to grasping the concepts and tying them to the scope of the class. Thanks for the additional advice!
Edgar, as far fetched as it sounds, we are all getting into this profession together so we should at no point refrain from dutifully assisting each other. After all, that's the niche of our carrier when we become lawyers.
Samora, thank you so much for your advice.
I don't know whether you've considered returning to law school, but every one of those weaknesses that you mentioned can be remediated. I've taught for the past 32 years and have encountered many students who've experienced the very difficulties you've enumerated. I was very impressed with your self knowledge and humility. I wish you the very best.----Todd.
As a fellow young immigrant who always struggled with asking for help -- especially in academic settings, I find it a "very immigrant thing" to have difficulty asking for help. What people don't realise is that we are the kids our families depend on for MANY things; whether that is taking care of our younger siblings or working to provide, figuring out our family's financial situation and being a translator 24/7, we are thrown into an entirely different world and are expected to "deliver"...This all relates to our obsession with being self sufficient and being the helpers. I remember not wanting to "burden my professors" in office hours, just as I remember not wanting to adjust to this country's toxic and counterproductive All-Nighter Culture. I admire you for sharing your story and I am 100% sure you are Intelligent enough to represent any client you wish in the future! You did not "fail" because you failed to tackle your weaknesses, you "failed" because a part of your identity wired you to think that doing so just wasn't a possibility.
You'll do amazing things in life, Edgar! Keep on going. It takes us twice the effort, but we always get there.
@Anxhela Ndrio Thanks for sharing this interesting perspective. I certainly hadn't thought about it like this. And like you said, we always get there, one way or another.
I've recently just finished my first semester of law school, and I completely relate to everything you said. The time constraint was definitely a huge hurdle for me, and all the readings made me feel drained about halfway through the semester. I was thankful that my professors assigned the class to do a practice test or an actual midterm in my Torts professor's case. Those forced exams made me felt more prepared for their testing style; however, outside those practices, I found myself strained and was not able to actually do further practice tests. One piece of advice I have for upcoming 1L students is: don't start outlining 1 month before finals (in my case, two weeks). This is when you will have the least amount of time because this is usually when the open memos are due and will be the most stressed-out moment of the whole semester. It is best to start outlining as you complete a topic as it helps with review and comprehension for upcoming topics. As I type this, I am waiting for my grades to be released, and it is terrifying.
@MetaChampion9 Great advice on the practice tests and outlining! Wishing you the best as you continue your law school journey.
When I was in law school I deleted all social media accounts. When I came home from class I left my phone in the car.
Going to try this
Will try this out
This is the only way!
Hey Edgar. Thanks for making this video. I could feel the rawness and vulnerability in your testimony. To be open like this, and to be able to directly identify and confront your failures takes an immense amount of character. Many people might have tried to shift the blame, or to completely bury the experience to avoid the uncomfortable experience that you just went through, and what's more, you did it publicly. I hope others see this video and learn from your strength and courage, I know that I certainly have. You're absolutely right that it does not define you, and from what I've seen in this video, it wasn't a failure at all. I believe that you will remember this as an important step to all that you are sure to accomplish. Good luck in your future Edgar, and Godspeed.
Shane, beautifully well said.
@@JetLeft008 - It's a field that's particularly ripe to be replaced by AI.
I’m not a law student yet. I’m applying for law school for Fall 2021. But from all of my research I found that having solid study partners is very important. Also, it’s good to be prepared for cold calls, but it’s not the end all of your grade. Outlining since the beginning of the semester is more important. Using all of the practice exams the professors provide is key. And lastly, having one on one appts. with your professors is also very important so they can guide you when you need help. I’m afraid of what’s in store for me next fall, but I know there are plenty of resources I can use to prepare me from even before I start my 1L year. To me it sounds like you went in thinking it would be like undergrad. There’s no question that you are smart, you did get accepted into a tier 1 school. I just think you probably underestimated the beast called law school. If being a lawyer is what you still want to be, it’s not over. Get back up, apply again, and change your strategy. Use this time to enhance your writing skills. Best of luck to you.
I think you’re going into law school with a solid plan! Best of luck and thanks for the advice. 👍🏽
Edgar, this was extremely eye opening for me. I'm applying for law school this coming month and the fear is already setting in for me. I know in my heart I will be accepted into a law school, but there's a thought that creeps into my head once in a while, "what if I'm not ready?". This video hit home. I know I need to be an attorney and I know it's going to be the hardest three years of my life. Thank you so much for sharing your story and I know you're going to be successful in whatever it is you chose to pursue. I wish you the best of luck my brother. Thank you so much!
@Benny Hernandez Wishing you the best as well!! You got this!
🙌🏿💞💙💜
God bless you, Edgar. I hope you’re doing well.
Thanks for your support!! 😊
What brutal honest guy. Thank you, brother.
You bet! Just trying to make sure others avoid the same mistakes I made. 👍🏽
@@EdgarNavarrete You seem to be a brilliant guy, and I think you could have still made it through the JD. I respect your decision to abandon the Juris Doctor program. I am also a former refugee immigrant from war-torn South Sudan, and I came to Australia close to 16 years ago without parents under a special humanitarian visa program. I did a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering(honours), work there for about 5 years. I lost my job due to covid19, I then decided to do JD this semester 2 (now). It's tough, in the way you explained in this video. I am struggling with English, and advance writing seems to be very challenging. I am doing 3 units at the movement at 75% load of a semester. Let me know if you have any further advice. God bless you and wish you the best luck.
@James Thanks and best of luck to you too. Do let me know what kinds of questions or videos you’d like to see in the future.
I am so happy to have found your channel! I am also DACAmented, working for a non-profit law Firm in Orange County in the immigration department. I am currently finishing my undergraduate degree and I hope to apply to law school soon. I look forward to watching more of your videos 🙏🏾
Glad you found the channel! Don’t forget to subscribe and share with family and friends!! 😊
@@EdgarNavarrete hello.How are you doing right now? I'm also determined to study Law school.Thank you for sharing.
You don't understand how important this video is. I am doing a dual law degree and I failed my 1L and am currently retaking it. I'm miserable for basically all the reasons you are. I don't know if I want to continue
Hi Edgar, thank you for sharing your story and you experience. I am currently a 1L in Texas and I couldn't agree more that law school is difficult and it consists of a lot of highs and lows. I hope that your video is a wake up call for those who are considering or who are already in law school and take your advice to be a successful law student. Law school will really humble every and any one who takes on it. Good luck with any future endeavors!
Hey Alex! Thanks for watching and best of luck in law school. 👍🏽
Hey Edgar, thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your story with us. I know you are bright and you will succeed in whatever you choose to dedicate your time towards. Keep your chin held high, this video will help a lot of people. Your journey is just beginning. Best of luck as you decide next life moves! Much love brotha Edgar. Liked & subbed
Thank you for your kind words! 😊 Appreciate the support.
As someone who just finished their first semester, I can completely agree with everything you have said! This is encouraging to know that I am not the only person who feels this.
i think being a philosophy major will help me because like you mentioned all my finals or assignments were always papers no multiple choices. the reading and comprehension i think is the most important factor. thanks for this video
Practice multiple choice questions. In 3/4 classes 30%+ of my grade is from MCQ. I was also a philosophy major, but I’ve noticed that being overly analytic/picky regarding the usage of words has been detrimental to MCQ’s. Good luck!
I think you're amazingly smart anyway, that you were able to get into the law school. IDK why you're an undocumented immigrant. Your English is perfect.
I graduated law school a couple years ago. I hated the law school curve.
Yeah, it can be tough. Congrats on surviving law school! 🎓
Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing your story. Hindsight really is 20/20. It's so hard in the moment to figure out what will really help you move forward, to the point where it can really become so overwhelming that the most logical option seems to be just moving on to something completely different. I'm happy to see that you chose to grow from your experience rather than letting it be your downfall. You have a really optimistic outlook in this video that I think will really help law students who are struggling. I hope you're on to bigger and better things!
Edgar, this was very courageous and honest. I think it's very easy for law students to get so overwhelmed by the sheer volume of cases, that they end up standing too close to their subject and can't see the higher-level principles. When you're working flat out just to cover the material there's the fear that time spent writing practice exam answers is time wasted. Law exams about "problem solving" - that is applying a set of principles to a fact situation, so turning all that memory work into a set of rules and principles you can apply to arrive at a solution or a number of potential solutions takes practice & experience. I wish you well for the future.
"I wasn't reading Supreme Court briefs for fun. I mean...who does that?" Jeez... Law school is probably not for me
Thank you Edgar for sharing your story. As a nursing major myself, I’m facing some of the same problems academically. Thank you for this insight, time for me to take those extra steps to be successful.💚
Hey Gregory! Thanks for watching. Wishing you all the best with your nursing degree. You got this! 💪🏼
I am so sorry this happened to you, I wish u the best on your next journey. I'm sure you will do great because as u said u are a hard worker. You should keep pursuing your goals if you're passionate about them, just keep practising where u are lacking. I also learnt the hard way, not reading enough. Also, you are right, practising writing is key to succeeding in courses that are essay-based. I'm a classics graduate and a recent post-graduate in Human Rights and International relations and I can tell you all you learn is literally how to read more scholarly arguments and how to write a convincing . That's it, u get to learn how to use SPSS and ways to collect data but u learn it in just one lecture. It's all about reading and writing.
@Kristine Carreon Thanks for watching and sharing advice from your personal experiences. I agree with you 100%! It's all about reading, understanding what you read, and writing compelling arguments for different sides of the issue.
Incredibly intelligent and vulnerable video. Seriously amazing. Thank you!
Edgar, let me begin by telling you how admirable your transparency and introspection is. Everything you have said is so profound and I would like to communicate with you further. You will make the impact you say you want to make and you're already well on your way with just your words alone. If you have a preferred social media or email to communicate through, do not hesitate to let me know. I wish you all the best in your walk of life and thank you for your video.
Great message as someone aspiring to go into law school , I appreciate your truthfulness. You rock !!
Erick Zamora thanks!! And best of luck on your law school journey! 👍🏽
Just finished the video. You are a great soul Edgar. I really am happy you have found happiness outside of law school. You are a smart guy don't let law school define who as you said! You will and seem to have made a difference for your community. You have earned a like and a subscription. God bless!
Edgar, thank you brother, I had to check myself. I appreciate you being transparent. And 1,000% your failures do not define you. Others will try to define you by them, But God opened my eyes to show me, a failure may be a "season", but they Do Not define us.
Thank you so much for this video! I’m in law school right now and I want to do well. I appreciate your honesty.
Oh dear right from the jump your Undergraduate major was a huge factor that most likely led to your demise in law school. Most law Students are Liberal Arts Majors. Because our majors have a strong focus on Reading and Writing. Extreme written and verbal communication skills. Political Science or even English or History would have prepared you more for the reading load/ Comprehension. Not that it's comparable but.. And, The written exams that's all we do as Political Science students; is take written exams. I am so sorry that you went through this experience. But it sounds like you got some great job and intern experience. Which lawyers and per- law students would kill for. My advice would be to appeal and re-apply get to your 2L and take the Patent bar instead which has more of a science componate. Don't give up you can do this we need more empathic, and understanding people like you in the legal field. LOl, I Love this video means so much to me. To hear from someone like you and see how open and honest your being is so brave and downright inspiring thanks so much for sharing!
weird tip, but to practice my writing skill I used the "Am I the Ahole" (AITA) reddit. The posts there provide a story with facts and ask for a judgement. You get to practice issue spotting, applying a rule, explaining your reasoning and a writing it all concisely. its also good distraction lol.
Hearing you talk about self preservation. I'm laid up from a torn rotator cuff surgery. Total rebuild. This is second time on this shoulder. I push myself past self preservation. Your words rang true. I have a lesson I have learned. Don't make money a motivating factor. I have been jobless for not breaking the law. I thought sitting at home instead of sitting in jail was a better route. Opportunities are made, not handed out at rally demanding something for nothing.
Jim Greenwell thanks for sharing your story and this important lesson.
I hoping to start in August myself. I appreciate your honesty.
@Demarz Barz Best of luck!!
I am a medical student and for a while wanted my JD to help with advocating for medical marijuana laws. I will say anyone who is getting a terminal degree stay strong because they are trying to break us down to make us “better” it’s a scam but remember your why ALWAYS!
Hey Edgar! I am just out of law school and I really understand your insight. I'm sorry you went through this situation. As a Mexican American I share some concerns with you. Thank you for this video and I wish you the best!
Thank you for the video! I am thinking about law school but I am having my doubts. After watching this I may just reconsider
Law school is challenging but don't let the challenge turn you away. Just don't make the same mistakes I did while I was there. Best of luck on your journey! 👍🏽
Thanks for sharing your story! Your journey will help others
Thanks for watching! Hope it helped. 😊
When you ask who reads Supreme Court opinions for fun and I internally raise my hand….. lol.
Video doesn’t start until 4:25
You are such a strong person!! 🤗
Thank you, Lind Say!
Thank you Edgar. You're awesome
You are awesome, too!
Everything you said is spot on about Law School.
I'm just being honest about my law school experience. I hope this video has been able to give insight to others on their law school journey. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for sharing. I value your experience
You’re going to do awesome things!
@Nicole Thank you!!
Thank you for sharing your story. I would like to note/suggest people enroll in a pre-law summer school before 1L. Angel of YT Channel Harvard and Hardship has a pre-law Summer school program that she started for some of the reasons mentioned in this video. There are others who also have or suggest pre-law summer school programs.🙏🏽
Thanks for sharing!!
You just got my sub! Thank you for showing us this video.
@Mark Adlaon Thanks for the sub!
I read very little cases in law school. Instead wrote out practice questions. Applying black letter law to facts and arguing why an element was met or not met. Thats it.
It should be noted that young people are no longer naively bedazzled by fictional depictions that deceptively portray the world's most dishonest and aptly despised profession.
This is an amazing video and you have an amazing story to tell. Wishing you all the best! (also kudos to your audio and video quality)
Thank you so much! ❤️
“I wasn’t reading Supreme Court briefs for fun... who does that?” I do 🥺👉🏻👈🏻
I feel the desire is very deep in your heart , you need a mentor, study and test taking stragetic. You need the right resources Dont give up! A WINNER NEVER QUIT AND QUITTER NEVER WINS THERE IS A LAWYER WINNER IN YOU!!!! GO BACK THERE ARE TO MANY RESOURCES. THERE IS A WAY OF DOING THINGS go to the library, surf the internet, especially youtube.
@Queen Doss Thanks for the motivation!!
Hi Edgar, first of all thank you for opening up to us. Secondly I would like to ask : are you talking about your experience during earning your JD (bachelor degree) or about your experience during a master degree in law? I just earned my (bachelor) law degree in the Netherlands (which normally takes 3 years) but our education system is different than in the US so I am trying to understand and compare it to studying law in Europe. I think a JD in the US is what we call a bachelor in law in the Netherlands
@Tg00 So in the U.S. students will complete their bachelor's degree in really any major, which usually takes about 4 years. Then, students will apply to law school, which is an additional 3 years to earn the JD degree. It's a little different in the U.S. Almost seems like its a lot longer for sure!
In the Netherlands is there a period after obtaining your JD where you're a trainee lawyer?
During covid, am just chilling and relaxing, when 1L starts I will be ready to cash in my sleep schedule for some good grade. Bye Bye sleep.
Best of luck!
I’m so sorry for you after listening to this. I really wish you the best. I’m graduating from law school in a week. I think if I may say that you needed to prioritize the areas where you knew you were lacking. If writing was an issue for you definitely focus on that. It’s a common mistake to think you need to know the whole law by heart before you can start writing. You should actually start writing at least 1 month before exams. Writing allows you to understand in which context you should apply the rules, how a good answer looks, etc. That’s actually more important than knowing the law. Anyways, I really wish you the best in your future endeavors.
Thanks for those tips and congratulations on your graduation! 👍🏽
Edgar Navarrete I think you addressed these points very clearly in the video. Wishing the best on your next steps.
Thanks Michael!
Would you concider to go back? Where I live you can try twice. All the best 💗
@Ellen Josephine Maybe one day but for now I'm pursuing other things. School will always be there!
very good video. well done. thank you for your transparency. good job.
@ohhiguy thanks bro!! 👍🏽
@@EdgarNavarrete I have been watching other first year law school stories. I thought of you on a couple videos. The first one is "Top Five Worst Things About Law School" by LegalEagle Law School. He made all A's in his first year, but not by following the assignments and working himself to death.
The next is "What I wish I knew before starting law school" by Emma Payne Murphy. She dropped out after the first year because of the stress and the overwelming feeling she had to work all the time. This second one might not be worth watching the whole thing.
The whole truth is I dropped out after my first year. I am preparing to teach a class on how to cope with the first year of law school. Bless you my brother.
@ohhiguy This is great! I think your class would be super helpful to a lot of students!
AWESOME VIDEO!!! Thank you for sharing your life...
Thanks for watching!! 😊
Didn't you have a writing class. I didn't think there were law schools without first year writing classes that are required to teach the IRAC method.
We definitely had a writing class. And they also taught the IRAC and other variations of it. I think I definitely struggled with managing my time and making sure I practiced the writing outside of what was required for class.
was culture shock the biggest reason for why you dropped out? In other words, due to the bureaucratic nature of law and the trade itself, was the adjustment the most significant hurdle?
However, I completely understand your struggles (broadly speaking). Prior to working in a firm, I worked as a mover and, like you, I was trying my best despite that area of work being my largest hurdle.
Do you still go to law school? Or are you just working now? I heard that a lot of people don’t do too hot the first time around.
@Jamal Connelly Since failing out I haven’t gone back to law school.
Thank you for sharing ❤️
No problem 😊 & thanks for watching!!
thank u sm 🤍
Is it possible to get a job outside of a law firm or a job that is not at the Public Defender,s office, or at the District Attorney,s office, or a job not at a courthouse if you fail out of law school?
Do you feel like going to a lower ranked law school also affected that? I heard they have crazy curves and weed out students alot
Great question! I'm not sure how to answer though. I think I would have to chat with someone going to a highly ranked law school before really saying anything.
Practice is key
Hi Edgar, hope you doing well, I am currently in the first semester of my JD program, I am taking Criminal law, Foundation of law and justice, and contract law. Your video has inspired me and wants your help regarding study approach you would suggest if you were a law student. e.g reading Supreme court cases, chapters reading and any suggestion to study plan?
your help will be much appreciated.
James
@James Hey! First of all congrats on getting into law school. That's an accomplishment in itself! Honestly, every student is different and has a different learning style. What works for me might not work for you or some else. The biggest piece of advice I can give is to ask your professors. Many times they will recommend different ways to learn their material. Try them out and work with other classmates to discuss the cases and check how you each understood the case. If you're still having trouble go to your professors, that's what they're there to do. It's a tough journey ahead but you can do it! 👍🏽
@@EdgarNavarrete Thank you, brother.
Well said.
Just keeping it honest and hoping my shortcomings help others.
Damn I just got accepted to the same law school you went to and now I’m scared lol 🥲
@Karla A. CONGRATS!! Law school will be tough but you can do it! 💪🏽
How many chapters? or How many pages? per day??? are you talking about reading. I can't even understand why law school is so difficult and the tests are so comprehensive, when, whenever, I hire a lawyer, they're often inept and need me to do all the required research, prying and work. Any way...Please let me know some specifics about how much reading is required. Is it reams of copy papers, both sides, fine print??? per day?
Hey Jay! Thanks for watching and asking this question that I think lots of people may have. It honestly depends on the school and more specifically the professor. Each professor has their own way of teaching and requirements for reading. In my first semester experience some professors had us read just a couple of pages while others required us to read up to 100 pages for the next day/class. Yes one of the issues for me personally was keeping up with the amount of reading but another challenge I encountered was having a comprehensive understanding of the concepts. The reading and learning continues for legal professionals beyond law school as the law is changing. At the same time lawyers need have the best understanding possible of a clients case and its specific details. These details will vary from client to client and are essential for a lawyer to understand how the law applies to their individual case. I’m sorry to hear you’ve had some bad experiences with lawyers. I can’t say they’re all good people. Hope this answered some of your questions.
I read so much in law school that I went from never having wore glasses to needed glasses, then a couple of years after law school was over I no longer needed glasses! I noticed it the most when I shifted from looking at my notes to looking at the lecturing professor. So I can say there was so much reading in law school that it affected me physically. That said, I am now a computer science student and I can verify that CS is exponentially harder than law school. Not even close.
@@MSneberger hi! Computer science is harder then law school?
@@zemzembrown3633 For me a LOT harder!
i know i am late to the party but i think you should go back andor atleast pursue a higher degree of education.
Meeting w/Profs will yield little fruit.
DL R Dean sorry, not true. Professors would have directed him to correct resources.
Really matters on the Professors, Some suck, some are good.
Have you thought about going back to law school?
Thanks for the question. I’ve definitely thought about going to back to law school. It’s something that crosses my mind frequently but I think for the moment I will take some time off and pursue other things.
Edgar Navarrete thank you for sharing that! I too have recently failed my 1L first semester and have been trying to wrap my head around my next move. You’re authenticity has certainly help me along my journey thank you!
Glad to be able to help. School will always be there so don't stress about going back immediately. There's so many ways that you can still accomplish your goals. The important thing is to keep your head up high, learn from your mistakes, and keep moving forward. 👍🏽
@@mckinleydivinity2365It is POSSIBLE to fail law school and come back better than ever! My journey is living proof. I hope you both consider it.
Check out my series of videos I've made for dismissed law students
th-cam.com/play/PLD5njAWcMyjEt8Yjk1uzE20cDkYtwqcPk.html
Lamarr-Law Student Encourager Wow thanks for your encouraging words! Definitely going to consider it myself. Also checking out your channel (:
Is it same as private law school hard or no?
@Sherif Tawfik Great question! I was briefly at a private law school so I can only speak to that experience and even then it may be different at other private law schools. I can't speak to the difficulty of a public law school, if there's any at all.
I read Supreme Court briefs for fun…
I came into this video with an open mind but it was exactly what I expected it to be. Excuses. Or more specifically, the same excuse. Time. You said “time constraints” so many times. As if every other student in your classes didn’t have the same amount of time as you. You didn’t fail law school because of time. You failed law school due to lack of commitment. You even had the audacity to say you refused to sacrifice sleep. Sounds like you had no business being in law school in the first place.
Awww 🙂 well, well, well. Go into tech you’ll make more money. Fail fast than fail slow. Imagine graduating law school and still broke! At least you have your life back and no debt .
This guy is the perfect example of why DEI shouldn't be a thing. He was obviously not prepared or qualified to be a law student at UT Austin law school. They didn't do him any favors by admitting him.
by the looks of your nose, I can imagine why lol. shit happens though. you live and learn.
What was your GPA as an undergraduate?