Law School Interviews

• Why do you want to be a lawyer?
• What do you hope to do or accomplish with your JD?
• Why are you interested in X type of law?
• Why are you applying to law school now?
• Why are you switching careers (as applicable)?
• What interests you about our school?
• Tell me about a time you were challenged while working on a team.
• Tell me about a time you overcame an obstacle.
• What have you learned at your current job?
• Why did you study [something you studied at grad school] and how will it inform your career?
• Tell me about a time you showcased leadership.
• Talk to me about [the hobbies or interests you listed on your resume].
• What do you do for fun?

More Potential Interview Questions

1. Be prepared to talk about the following:
   1. Your application materials including your résumé and personal statement
   2. General interest in law
   3. Interest in their specific law school
2. An academic or professional accomplishment, a mistake, failure, or weakness a time you worked on a team
3. Additional tips:

• • Dress professionally.
  • Show up early for in-person interviews.
  • If possible, plug into your modem for online interviews.
    • Otherwise, do what you can to clear the bandwidth
      • Don't download anything big beforehand
      • Move as close as possible to your router
  • Be friendly, charming, and enthusiastic.
    • Smile even if you are on the phone.
  • Try not to panic.
  • Prepare at least two thoughtful questions to ask interviewers at the end of the interview.

Practice, practice, practice!

• For help with preparation and practice, you can schedule a mock interview with the Pre-Law Advising Center or Mānoa Career Center.

Check out these YouTube resources for more helpful interview tips & tricks!

• Elevating Your Virtual Presence: Tips for Zoom, Teams, etc.
• Law School Interviews
• What Makes for a Successful Law School Interview?