Legal Education Advancement Program (LEAP)
LEAP is a structured program held in August just before orientation and designed to help first year students transition to the study of law in a welcoming learning environment.
LEAP participants are trained on how to be effective and successful law students. Students receive instruction on court systems and precedent, reading and briefing cases, and essay exam writing. They then practice their newly acquired skills with fellow 1Ls in a supportive environment before the beginning of classes.
All admitted students receive information about LEAP during the summer before they begin classes and are invited to apply for the program. Students who feel that a jumpstart to law school would be beneficial to them are encouraged to apply.
Academic Enrichment Groups
1Ls can choose to participate in Academic Enrichment Groups during the fall and spring semesters. Group leaders work with 1Ls to improve reading, reasoning, time management, and exam-writing skills. The Enrichment Groups are generally tied to 1L doctrinal courses with one group leader focused on helping students in one doctrinal subject. Enrichment groups are led by 2L and 3L students who are selected and trained by WLRC faculty because of their potential to teach and mentor incoming students.
All 1Ls will receive information early in the semester on how to apply for the Academic Enrichment Groups.
Oral Advocacy Enrichment Groups
1Ls can choose to participate in Oral Advocacy Enrichment Groups during the spring semester. Group leaders work with 1Ls to improve their confidence in public speaking and oral advocacy. Enrichment groups are led by 2L and 3L students who are selected and trained by WLRC faculty because of their potential to teach and mentor incoming students, as well as their success in oral advocacy.
All 1Ls will receive information early in the spring semester on how to apply for the Oral Advocacy Enrichment Groups.
Other Academic Excellence Services
We also offer the following services to 1Ls:
- Individual counseling sessions with WLRC faculty to help students identify their goals and take logical steps to reach them
- Course selection and academic advising
- Academic success workshops
- A study aid lending library for all 1L doctrinal courses