Law School Success 2026: tips for a New Year reset. Whether you are a 1L student or heading into your final year, this episode provides a helpful roadmap to improve your legal study habits and academic performance.

Happy New Year! As I reflect back on the journey, I know that the transition from Fall to Spring semester is the most critical time to pivot. Today, I’m sharing 11 actionable strategies to help you out-perform your last semester, including creating a 2026 Manifesto, mastering consistent outlining, and the essential skill of self-advocacy. Join me for this 2026 reset to ensure this year is your most successful one yet.

For informational purposes only. Please do your own research to confirm that this information is accurate and applicable to your situation. This podcast does not give legal advice; please contact a qualified attorney or another qualified professional.

Show Notes: The 2026 Law School Success Checklist

1. Create a Yearly Manifesto: Write down your law school goals alongside your personal goals. Law school is part of your life, but it cannot be your entire life.

2. Address Less-Than-Ideal Grades: If your grades weren't what you hoped for, don't ignore them. Include the solution and the path forward directly in your manifesto.

3. Honest Self-Reflection: Use your break to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses. Be honest about where you need to improve and take advantage of every resource your law school offers.

4. Prepare and Participate: Read as much as possible for every class. Attend every session, leaving absences only for strict emergencies, and make sure your participation is meaningful.

5. The Note-Taking Partnership: Identify a reliable peer to exchange notes with. This ensures you have a backup if you must miss class and helps you follow professor slides more effectively. Pro-Tip: Read your notes the same day, not the day after.

6. Organize Your Notes: Organization is the key to a good review. (Listen to my previous episode on Organizing Notes for my specific method).

7. Outline Consistently: Do not fall behind. Outline on time and do it regularly. (Check out my series on Outlining for more details).

8. Maximize Office Hours: Come prepared with specific questions. When a professor sees your individual effort, these meetings become significantly more helpful.

9. Controlled Self-Care: Factor in time for your brain to reset. Set boundaries so that your self-care actually enables you to return to your work refreshed.

10. Expand Your Resume: Use this year to apply for internships and join extracurricular activities to build your professional profile.

11. Be Your Own Advocate: Especially for those with disabilities needing accommodations—speak up, explain your needs, and advocate for yourself.