So, you think you want to go to law school — congrats! But, you are nervous to go back to school after time in the “real world.” Whether you’ve spent one year or 12 since undergrad, I promise you can succeed in law school! That said, your unique experiences may make your law school application process and time at school look somewhat different from your KJD counterparts (Kindergarten through Juris Doctor — law students who took no time off).

I spent 4 years working in eastern North Carolina before starting law school at Wake Forest University. Even with just those few years, I think I’m a better law student because of that time.

If you’re considering law school but feel uneasy with the transition, below are some quick words of wisdom from me (and crowdsourced from other non-KJDs).

Applying to Law School

Use your work experience to your advantage. It won’t erase your undergraduate GPA and LSAT score, but it makes you a more holistic applicant.
Know your “why.” What made you decide to go to law school? Try to weave it into your personal statement or other application materials.
Be upfront about any location needs. If you need (or want) to stay in a specific city or state, say so. Many schools love applicants who plan to stay and invest in the local community.
Understand the financial impact. Transitioning from a full-time salary (no matter the pay) to full-time school will change your budget. Look for scholarship opportunities, and estimate any potential debt before selecting a school.
Don’t get too nervous. Students with work experience are becoming more and more common these days; I promise you won’t be the only one.

In Law School

Treat law school like your 9-to-5 (with some overtime). Law school is hard, in part because it’s less structured than your job likely was. You have classes sporadically throughout the week, and you’re on your own to complete your assignments. Set “work hours” for reading and studying — legal writing assignments and finals are “overtime.”
Let your experience differentiate you. Your resume will look different from many of your classmates by virtue of your experience. You’ll get asked different interview questions, focusing less on your favorite 1L class and more on what made you pivot to law school. Don’t try to downplay your prior work; use it to set yourself apart.
Connect your past career to your future one. Are you interested in a specific area of law based on your prior career? Do you have a great example of a time you faced a challenge (or any other basic interview question)? Say so!
Network, network, network. You likely know how to work in an office environment and/or how to make small talk with anyone. That basic professionalism will go a long way with professors, attorneys, and judges.
Make friends of all kinds. You’ll have classmates at all phases of life. Don’t limit yourself; some of your closest friends in law school may be people significantly younger (or older!) than you. (Bonus tip: Don’t be the “parent” of your friends solely because you’re older. You’re all adults, so just have fun!)

All in all, please don’t let your years outside of school scare you away. Your journey may look different than some, but that’s a strength. If you put your mind to it, I’m sure you’ll make an outstanding lawyer one day!

December 1, 2025/by NCBA YLD