Law | Crimson Career Guide

INDUSTRY OVERVIEW

LAW

For Harvard undergraduates, pursuing a career in law offers a unique opportunity to apply rigorous academic training to real-world impact through public service, corporate leadership, or legal innovation. While US law schools accept students from a wide range of academic backgrounds, the application and matriculation process still requires thoughtful planning, strong analytical skills, and a clear commitment to the values that define the legal profession.

Academic preparation for law school should begin with building a strong foundation in analytical reasoning, writing, and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves with seminar-style classes and intensive writing courses, many of which are available through the General Education curriculum or departmental honors tracks. Faculty mentorship and research assistant positions can also deepen intellectual engagement while demonstrating a serious academic commitment to law-related themes. Internships during summer and term time – whether in law firms, government agencies, advocacy groups, or courts – provide exposure to the practical realities of legal work. Leadership roles, public service, and a demonstrated commitment to equity and justice also resonate strongly with admissions committees. Ultimately, students should seek experiences that sharpen their ability to reason, advocate, and lead. These are the core qualities of successful law students and legal professionals.

RECRUITING TIMELINE

STEP ONE

FRESHMAN/SOPHOMORE YEAR

In their first two years, Harvard undergraduates can prepare for law school by taking writing-intensive and analytical courses that build critical thinking and communication skills. These classes lay the foundation for legal study and help demonstrate academic readiness. Consider internships or work experiences in legal settings to gain exposure to the field.

STEP TWO

JUNIOR YEAR

Spring and Summer: If interested in Harvard Law School’s Junior Deferral Program or Columbia Law School’s LEAD Fellowship Program, begin to prepare application materials. Draft your Statement of Purpose and Statement of Perspectives, update your resume, study for the LSAT or GRE, and ensure you have 2-3 letters of recommendation from professors or academic advisors.

Summer: Submit your JDP or LEAD application if pursuing the early application route. Most programs will reach out to candidates and conduct interviews in July.

01 CORPORATE LAW AT MAJOR FIRMS (BIG LAW)

Pathway Overview

Many law school graduates from top institutions enter large corporate law firms, working in areas like mergers and acquisitions, private equity, or high-stakes litigation. These positions offer high starting salaries, exposure to a variety of industries, and access to elite professional networks. While demanding, this path can lead to financially rewarding roles in law, finance, or business leadership.

02 PUBLIC INTEREST LAW AND CIVIL RIGHTS ADVOCACY

Pathway Overview

For students driven by social justice and service, public interest law offers opportunities to work at nonprofits, legal aid organizations, or civil rights groups. While compensation is typically lower than in the private sector, many find deep purpose in advocating for marginalized communities, shaping policy, or litigating landmark cases. Loan forgiveness programs and fellowships can help support this path financially.

03 GOVERNMENT, POLICY, AND REGULATORY WORK

Pathway Overview

Law school can open doors to impactful roles in federal or state government, including agencies like the Department of Justice, SEC, or roles on Capitol Hill. Legal training is also valuable in international diplomacy, policy think tanks, or regulatory bodies. These careers appeal to students interested in shaping public policy and working at the intersection of law, governance, and society.

04 ACADEMIC, ENTREPRENEURIAL, OR INTERDISCIPLINARY CAREERS

Pathway Overview

Some law graduates leverage their legal education in academia, legal tech startups, journalism, consulting, or impact investing. This path is ideal for students with broad intellectual interests or those who see the law as a tool for innovation and leadership in nontraditional fields. It offers flexibility, creativity, and the potential to drive change across disciplines.

INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT

"The profession will confront difficult choices in order to reconcile elements of the law related to its function... its function as a trusted profession in service to others and protecting our most cherished rights."

Neal J. Reenan '93

Looking back, how did your time at Harvard College shape your path toward law?

As a Government concentrator, I was constantly exposed to the importance of law in society, both in the U.S. and in Europe, where I grew up. European integration was accelerating, and there were many dramatic and exciting changes taking place in the fundamental legal structures governing the European Community (as it was then called) and its member states. I studied the Maastricht treaty, that came into effect the year I graduated, which created the modern European Union and laid the groundwork for the Euro currency. So, law, along with economics, was always a core academic interest of mine, but I didn’t decide to go to law school until several years after college.

YOUR GUIDE TO LAW SCHOOL

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