1L year versus 2L and 3L years Forum

[HarlandBassett]

Is it true that the 2nd and 3rd years are easier because there are "easier" curves?

[09042014]

Is it true that the 2nd and 3rd years are easier because there are "easier" curves?

Some schools definitely do. At Northwestern electives aren't curved if there are 40 or less people. Therefore there is some serious grade inflation 2L and 3L.

[reverendt]

Not at my school. Most classes are still curved about the same.

I think 2L & 3L are "easier" because by that point you have a good idea of what's expected of you, how to budget your time, what study methods to use, and what NOT to use.

[Aqualibrium]

The curve gets easier in some cases, but trust me, 2L year is A LOT more work.

Trial Ad, Moot Court, Journals, OCI, etc...

It get's easier in the sense that you have some idea about how to manage the work load of classes and prepare for exams, but law school as a whole is by no means easier. Not unless you're one of those people that gets bad grades first year, then just packs it in and decides all you want is to graduate. Then it's easy...

[johnnyutah]

It get's easier in the sense that you have some idea about how to manage the work load of classes and prepare for exams, but law school as a whole is by no means easier.

TCR. The classes aren't as hard, but you have to add more onto your plate: pro bono hours, job searching, networking, journal, etc etc

[Cavalier]

Is it true that the 2nd and 3rd years are easier because there are "easier" curves?

The classes themselves are easier because you already know how to prepare for an exam, and because most people won't be working as hard as they did in their 1L year. Also, the fact that grades don't matter nearly as much takes a lot of the pressure off. But you'll have plenty to keep you busy as a 2L.