Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — For many students pursuing degrees in liberal arts, questions about the next steps often center around law school. This common inquiry can feel more like an expectation than a genuine question, leading some students to grapple with the pressures of choosing a career path.
Angela Choi, a junior with aspirations of becoming a lawyer, recently completed an internship at the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender. She described the program as pivotal in shaping her future ambitions. “Working under the Parental Representation Division allowed me to dive into family law,” she said. “The most impactful moment was attending Family Reunification Day, where families shared their stories of coming back together. It was moving to see the commitment our attorneys have to their clients.”
Fellow junior Fiona Sullivan has also found inspiration in her legal studies. With a background in history, she discovered that her academics in reading and writing aligned well with a potential career in law. To prepare, Sullivan is pursuing a minor in legal studies as part of her undergraduate program.
Dean Millard, a Villanova University alumnus and former Student Body President, shared his own journey toward law school. He was drawn to the belief that the law offers a unique platform for positive societal change. Millard noted that conversations with law students and practicing attorneys helped inform his decision, particularly since he is a first-generation law student. His experiences, including involvement with the Black Pre-Law Student Association, deepened his understanding of various legal paths and opportunities.
Students navigating similar considerations frequently offer guidance to those interested in law careers. Millard advised prospective students to clarify their motivations for attending law school. He emphasized the importance of commitment, noting that the curriculum is significantly more challenging than typical undergraduate coursework. “Understanding your reasons for pursuing this path can serve as motivation during tough times,” he stated.
Jeffrey Benedetto, who graduated from Villanova’s Charles Widger School of Law in 1994, echoed these sentiments. He cautioned students against entering law school merely to fulfill expectations or assumptions. “If law isn’t your lifelong dream, it’s important to reflect before making that leap,” he said. While Benedetto found law school to be a valuable experience, he wished he had taken time off after his bachelor’s degree to ensure it was the right fit for him.
For those uncertain about attending law school, Villanova offers resources through its “Career Connections” webpage. This includes newsletters aimed at pre-law students, a virtual law school fair scheduled for Fall 2025, and practice opportunities for the Law School Admissions Test on October 11, 2025.
As the landscape for aspiring law students continues to evolve, professionals frequently highlight the importance of integrity and service in the legal field. “The practice of law is fundamentally a social function that demands discipline and a genuine desire to help others,” said trial lawyer David Boies.
Students passionate about pursuing a legal career have the potential to find fulfillment and make an impact as they navigate their paths.
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