But … I Didn’t Apply to Zoom School of Law

As a first-generation law student, I was equal parts eager and nervous for the coming three years. I heard testimonials of the difficulties, the rewards, and the grit it takes to come out alive. I watched countless “How-To” videos on YouTube, spoke to current practitioners to gauge my interest, and even sought real world experience. Nothing could have prepared me for the change that would come.

“Starting next week ALL classes will move online.” Quite possibly the worst email a first-year, first-generation law student could receive. On the date I received that message, I had attended in-person law school for roughly 110 days, met a handful of people, and was cold-called four times.

From then until my final semester, I attended “Zoom School of Law.” Oddly, I don’t remember applying there. It would not be until August 30, 2021, that I would walk my campus again – a 3L with the classroom and classmate recognition of a mere 1L.

I would be lying to say I am not disappointed that my law school experience was immeasurably different than my predecessors. When I started law school, I was looking forward to networking, club meetings, and studying next to peers in the library. However, I am also immeasurably proud of myself and my fellow classmates, teachers, and professionals for making it through an unprecedented period.

Like all new situations, the experience did not come without its challenges. For extroverts and introverts alike, the mandated distance was likely suffocating and difficult. As a law student, sometimes it feels like the people around you are the only other people who understand the pain and angst you feel. Being separated so abruptly undoubtedly caused confusion, anger, depression, and new mental health battles for many.

But fortunately, these challenges have also been an impetus for positive growth. While Zoom and Microsoft Teams (to name a few) got all the recognition for bringing people together, the real spotlight should be on the people behind the screens. The sudden shift to remote learning gave us all the opportunity to practice time management, prioritize work projects, and adapt to changing work conditions and expectations. From what I have seen, most students rose to the occasion.

Personally, I have benefitted from the chance to demonstrate self-motivation. I have also learned the importance of projecting a professional image to others while being respectful and thoughtful. In addition, as a result of the distance learning, I believe many people began to take their mental health more seriously and address their personal needs and concerns. Self-recognition of these types of issues—along with a focus on self-care and an awareness that we are not alone in these struggles—has helped everybody grow and succeed both personally and professionally.

My advice for others applies whether you are a new law student or new attorney, or whether your near future is virtual or face-to-face. There are three important mannerisms that may change the outcome of your situation:

1. Be Disciplined and Intentional. With the world going virtual, many students made the mistake of losing sight of their intention of being in law school. They believed that they wouldn’t have to pay attention in class. Those who adopted that mindset were black sheep amongst those who remained dedicated. Don’t be a black sheep. Be disciplined in your studying for your future. Be intentional in your actions; it is a sure path to reward. Discipline, intentionality, and work ethic are just as important for new lawyers who are building their careers and professional reputations.

2. Be Understanding. The statements “I’ve been there” and “I understand what you’re going through” have taken on a new meaning. While the pandemic continues to ebb and flow, the world is learning how to acclimate. Whether by aiming to become fully virtual or trying to get things back to “normal,” being understanding that everyone is adapting to change can alleviate some of the stress and worries when something doesn’t go the way it was planned. Being understanding can help to avoid conflicts and maybe even foster a new sense of relatedness amongst our peers.

3. Be Balanced. Finding a balance between working, schooling, and playing is vital to putting yourself in a winning position. Finding time for yourself using a new hobby or interest group will help reduce stress and encourage productive work time, leading to rewarding results. The legal profession can be so taxing on the mind and spirit; taking a break can help to decrease anxiety, depression, and the possibility of burnout.

I have experienced countless mixed emotions from August of 2019, my law school beginning, to December 2021, my law school end. I am honored to be a part of a community that succeeded when the odds were stacked against us. I am ecstatic to soon start my career as an attorney knowing I will be joining countless other champions of the profession. I encourage each reader to pat themselves on the back, take a deep breath, and lean in to the challenge of each new season. The best is yet to come.