Success in law school does not depend on completing any particular major or courses of study as an undergraduate. Instead, students succeed in law school when they have strong analytical skills, an understanding of history and economics, and a strong intellectual curiosity. Green Mountain College wants to help students who are interested in a legal career. Through the Pre-Law Advising Program, students are steered toward rigorous courses oriented toward the skills and knowledge required in law school. When students successfully complete a suite of courses and requirements, the college grants the student a Certificate of Completion. This certificate becomes a permanent part of a student's file. THE PROGRAM To receive a Pre-Law Certificate of Completion, students must meet the following requirements:
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES Candidates for the Pre-Law Certificate of Completion are strongly encouraged to also demonstrate the following:
Successful completion of a research seminar in the student's major field; if no such seminar is offered, a research seminar of the student's own devising is strongly recommended.
A commitment to serving others through community service.
Successful completion of an internship in a professional setting. An internship in a law office or in the legal department of a larger organization can be particularly valuable.
Continued commitment to the Pre-Law Advisory Program through application, continued contact with the Pre-Law Advisor, and an annual letter stating the candidates progress toward these goals of the program.
ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES Exchange Program: Nagoya University School of Law Nagoya University, considered one of the Japanese “Ivies,” is the latest addition to GMC’s exchange partner institutions. This is a one semester or one year exchange program. Students should have a background or interest in law and policy—generally participants take at least one course at the law school. Classes are in English and knowledge of Japanese is not required, though students are expected to take Japanese for a grade (five credits) or as a course audit. Subsidized housing on campus is available for exchange students. Vermont Law School Articulation Agreement Green Mountain College has an articulation agreement with Vermont Law School, the nation’s premiere school for the study of environmental law. Students who graduate from Green Mountain College and meet the requirements of the articulation agreement are guaranteed admission to Vermont Law School’s J.D. or joint J.D./M.S.E.L programs. HOW THE PRE-LAW PROGRAM WORKS Apply. Most students apply by the end of their sophomore year. Students can apply at a later date by special arrangement with the Pre-Law Advisor. Advising. Meet once each semester with the program Advisor to discuss progress. Progress. Report by letter annually to the Pre-Law Advisory Committee on your progress toward your goals. Complete Requirements. Complete the Certificate program requirements and receive Pre-Law Advisory Program Certificate of Completion upon graduation! Download an application. Fill out and return to Prof. Sam Edwards in Ames Hall 108 or Shelby Phillips in Dunton Hall 115. Sam Edwards III J.D., LL.M. Director of Pre-Law Advising Program Associate Professor of Environmental Law and Public Policy Phone: (802)-287-8386
