Inspiration from Justice Kagan

Dear 1L, Justice Elena Kagan apparently didn’t rush to “write home about” her 1L fall grades, either. She only received two, according to reports, and they came as a shock:

a B in Crim;
a B- in Torts.

True, Justice Kagan was at Harvard Law School—where simply passing might be cause to celebrate—but her story should inspire you wherever you attend.

Why?

Because she turned things around in the spring, earning 3 FLAT A’s and 1 A-.

She then:

—became a supervising editor on law review,

—graduated magna cum laude,

—clerked for Supreme Court justice, Thurgood Marshall,

—became dean of Harvard Law School & U.S. Solicitor General, and

—eventually took her own seat on the high Court.

***
I realize we can’t all be Justice Kagan, but YOU CAN turn things around.

Here are some ideas for how to start:

🔸 The key change for most is spending LESS time reading before each class & MORE time studying & reinforcing what you learned after each class. Start approaching each class’s subject matter with exam-time in mind right out of the gate this Jan.

🔸 Prioritize sleep and long-term habits that will fuel you throughout the semester. You’ll need all the energy you can muster. Commit now so you don’t end up depleted come exam time.

🔸 Focus on your mental health. Surround yourself with positive energy & don’t let self-doubt undermine your chances.

🔸 If you need help setting up a better schedule or with time management generally: I’ve been referring people to Lisa Blasser. She seems to have a proven system, and you’ll find her delightful to chat with.

🔸 For legal writing, I’ll have more detailed tips for you throughout the semester. If you want to work with me to maximize learning from your fall memo, please reach out.

—> DO pay attention to your legal writing class. It’s the most important, if not the only, practical-skills course you get this year.

Fondly,

💌 Amanda
#Dear1L