Pre-Law Symposium for Pacific Islanders: Demystifying the Application Process for Law School

Ian Tapu presenting at the symposium on October 11, 2018.

The first ever Pre-Law Symposium for Pacific Islanders was held at the William S. Richardson School of Law on Thursday, October 11, 2018. The symposium was sponsored by the newly formed Pacific Islander Legal Association headed by student Ian F. Tapu. The purpose of the symposium was to “help demystify the application process for law school.” In a media press release, Ian was quoted as saying:

The association hopes to inspire more Pacific Islanders to apply to law school. We hope to combat the alarming statistics that only approximately 5 percent of Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders have attained a graduate degree, which is lower than almost every other ethnic group in the U.S.

77 students attended this all-day event. Ka Huli Ao was proud to support this event by tackling the topic: “Demystifying the LSAT.” Post-JD Fellow Letani Peltier ʻ17 and recent Native Hawaiian Law Certificate graduate Kaiwi Opulauoho ʻ18 led a presentation to discuss the LSAT. Then, on Saturday, October 13, Ka Huli Ao offered all participants the opportunity to take a free LSAT diagnostic exam. The exam was followed by a lunchtime panel discussion led by Kaiwi, Letani, and Professor Avis Poai ʻ04.  For an hour, students received answers to questions they had about all aspects of law school, the LSAT, and the legal profession. 

As Ian stated: “The law school has a history of supporting and uplifting vulnerable populations because it aligns with the very spirit of our namesake, Chief Justice William S. Richardson. This law school is committed to shaping the future leaders of the Pacific.” 

LSAT Diagnostic Day on Saturday, October 13.