Survey: Public Service Key for Students Considering Law School

From The Indiana Lawyer:

A landmark study of undergraduate students considering law school finds public service factors are key motivators, far ahead of the ability to qualify for a high-paying job or the prestige of the profession. 

The Association of American Law Schools released key findings from a Gallup survey Thursday. The report, “Before the JD: Undergraduate Views on Law School,” is the result of surveys taken by more than 22,000 college students and 2,700 law students, detailing their career aspirations, sources of information and advice, and academic backgrounds. The report also explores demographic differences in survey respondents by gender, parental education, race/ethnicity, and academic achievement.

The survey found undergraduates considering law school report their top reason is to pursue a career in politics, government, or public service. Other top factors include being passionate about the work, an opportunity to give back to society, and to advocate for social change. The ability to qualify for a high-paying job and the prestige of being a lawyer both rank lower on the list of 15 factors.

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This article was submitted by Samantha DeWester, Indiana Department of Natural Resources. If you would like to submit content or write an article for the Government Practice Section, please email Kara Sikorski at ksikorski@indybar.org.