Kyle Chesley (2L)

Hi Everyone,

My name is Kyle Chesley, and I’m starting my second year at Allard. I know that thinking about law school can be overwhelming and it may not feel real yet, but that feeling goes away quickly when you’re at Allard for Orientation. Nonetheless, if you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of where I was at this point last summer; I didn’t even know this website existed!

The most important part of law school to me is time management. There’s so much to do, and only so many hours in the day. You’re going to get a lot of advice from well meaning people in the next year, so be sure to adapt it to your situation, and not feel like you need to do everything. So, it’s important to remember that you’re in control of your own path, even if you don’t know where that path is going. You’ve made it this far, so you know what you need to do to get where you want to be.

But, I encourage everyone to get involved in some way that works for them. I found myself involved with the Law Student’s Legal Advice Program, which I encourage everyone to check out. It’s a chance for students to participate in legal aid; and get hands on experience working with clients on real legal problems. I was in court in front of a judge by October, so if you want to jump straight in LSLAP is a great option. If this sounds too intense, then there are lots of other interesting files LSLAP has, and its great to try as much as possible.

If this isn’t for you, then there’s an array of clubs and social activities at Allard that you can get involved in, law-related or not. The most rewarding part of law school is the people that you get to meet. You’ll be spending a lot of time with your classmates, and get to know them very quickly. Your friends at Allard will make the good times better, and the tough parts easier to manage.

Furthermore, everyone in the legal community is welcoming and friendly, and that everyone here wants to see you succeed. If you have any questions about anything and see me in the hall, don’t hesitate to stop and ask me. I’m looking forward to meeting everyone in the fall; and be sure to enjoy the rest of your summer!