More than 100 first-year students at Elon University School of Law are
taking part in a three-day “boot camp” designed to introduce them to
law school. Led by Steve Friedland, professor of law, the program gives
students tips on time management, effective note taking in class,
proper study habits and other keys to success.
During the opening session Tuesday, Aug. 14, Friedland conducted a mock
class to show students how law classes are often different from
undergraduate courses.
“Did you notice that I asked you a lot of questions, but didn’t give
you many answers?” Friedland told the class. “The goal in law school is
often different than your college career. The goal is not to get the
best grades. Our goal is to help you help yourself learn how to be a
good practitioner. So that’s why we ask you a lot of questions, to get
you thinking.”
Friedland advised students to visit with their professors often and get
constant feedback during the semester. “Come see us; we are happy to
talk to you,” Friedland said. “I also recommend that you stay after
class and listen to the questions other students are asking of the
professor. Come down to these first two rows and listen; often, you’ll
hear the key points repeated during that session.”
Taking good notes and reviewing them immediately after class is important, Friedland said.
“Highlight what’s most important, and take down what the professor puts
on the board, because that probably means it’s important.” Good notes
also help students prepare for hypothetical questions that are often
part of law school exams.
Friedland said Elon’s boot camp is similar to the approach used at other law school.
“We use the same principle of total immersion and then explanation,”
Friedland said. “It gives students a true picture of what we expect of
them.”