Advice on Volunteer Opportunity Forum

[Quick Silver]

I'm debating whether to take a volunteer opportunity. Can you weigh and and tell me your thoughts after reviewing these pros and cons?

Pros:
Great Clinic
Director has ties to some of the top schools I'm applying to
Interesting work

Cons:
Limited time - Finished with LSAT but still finishing essay and depending on score may retake lsat
Interested in the focus of clinic but not my primary interest (my PS slightly involves a different area of law)
Commute is a hassle
Could spend more time on my other softs (already have previous law related experience)

BTW don't let quantity of cons to pros throw you off. Some of the pros are pretty heavy.

Please let me know your thoughts.

[ChemEng1642]

Hello!

First -

How long have you been out of school? Would you have to leave current employment to take this?
How long do you have to accept this volunteer opportunity? Can you pick your start date?

Assuming you are not currently working and have some flexibility over your start date, I would definitely take the volunteer opportunity after you are done your essays. I would consider setting a deadline for yourself for the applications and then start the volunteer position soon after. Even if you are retaking the LSAT, I am a firm believer that people are more than capable of both working a job and studying at the same time. That being said - you know yourself best so that is something you will have to decide for yourself.

The opportunity sounds cool! Even if it isn't your primary interest it is good to explore other options so you have a better idea of what you like going into law school.

Now if you are deciding between two different jobs (previous employment and new volunteer opportunity) that is another story.

[should-i-do-it]

I've always thought volunteering was stupid shit

[Winston1984]

I've always thought volunteering was stupid shit

Always providing such insight.

[Winston1984]

What other softs can you work on? I really don't think essays take that much time. No reason that should be a con.

[Christina AA]

I think any chance to get substantive exposure to an area similar to what you are interested in pursuing is great! You are well on your way with your applications, and frankly, this volunteer work could provide not just helpful learning for you but also inform your work in law school. Go for it now while you have the time!

[Quick Silver]

What other softs can you work on? I really don't think essays take that much time. No reason that should be a con.

There's a book I've been working on that's almost finished. Thought it might be better to finish that for publishing so I can share in my application.