How much of a difference will work experience make?

[Toby Flenderson]

As a splitter prospect, I am looking for people's input on how much work experience can make a difference? I finished undergrad last sem, currently studying for LSAT and working in the finance industry. Have volunteer experience, Exec experience in uni, TA and honour rolls. 

But to be realistic, I have about 4 F's (1st yr), repeats, GPA out of 4.33, and a unsuccessful diploma attempt at a small college (completely different study field, significant rise in grades when degree switched).

 

Thank you for your time!

[Ruthless4Life]

People here tend not to like my advice but if you ask me I’d say it depends on your industry.  If you’re interviewing a firm specialising corporate practice (IPO, listed companies, M&A, leveraged financing etc) they’re going to value your prior experience in those fields than say, a (insert some other practice area) or generalist firm. I remember a classmate of mine was a senior tax associate at a big 4 audit firm and he absolutely killed his interview with a top corporate firm which he utilised his prior knowledge working on IPO projects.  But having said the above, your grades in law schools will get your foot in the door, but it’s still up to you the seize the opportunity. 

[Conge]

6 hours ago, Ruthless4Life said:

People here tend not to like my advice but if you ask me I’d say it depends on your industry.  If you’re interviewing a firm specialising corporate practice (IPO, listed companies, M&A, leveraged financing etc) they’re going to value your prior experience in those fields than say, a (insert some other practice area) or generalist firm. I remember a classmate of mine was a senior tax associate at a big 4 audit firm and he absolutely killed his interview with a top corporate firm which he utilised his prior knowledge working on IPO projects.  But having said the above, your grades in law schools will get your foot in the door, but it’s still up to you the seize the opportunity. 

I think they are asking about work experience when applying for law school, in which case I believe it matters very little, if at all.

GPA and LSAT are the determining factors. An upward trend in GPA is good. 

[Rashabon]

8 hours ago, Ruthless4Life said:

People here tend not to like my advice but if you ask me I’d say it depends on your industry.  If you’re interviewing a firm specialising corporate practice (IPO, listed companies, M&A, leveraged financing etc) they’re going to value your prior experience in those fields than say, a (insert some other practice area) or generalist firm. I remember a classmate of mine was a senior tax associate at a big 4 audit firm and he absolutely killed his interview with a top corporate firm which he utilised his prior knowledge working on IPO projects.  But having said the above, your grades in law schools will get your foot in the door, but it’s still up to you the seize the opportunity. 

99% of corporate associates have zero experience working in the field prior to joining these firms. They may "value it" but as a soft factor, and that person is getting hired alongside a K-JD with stellar grades and zero relevant work experience, so how much value is it.

Anyway as Conge noted, it is irrelevant to law school, where it is another small soft factor and not determinative, unless you are applying as a mature candidate, which does not include one year of post-undergrad work.

[NowOrNever]

11 hours ago, Toby Flenderson said:

As a splitter prospect, I am looking for people's input on how much work experience can make a difference? I finished undergrad last sem, currently studying for LSAT and working in the finance industry. Have volunteer experience, Exec experience in uni, TA and honour rolls. 

But to be realistic, I have about 4 F's (1st yr), repeats, GPA out of 4.33, and a unsuccessful diploma attempt at a small college (completely different study field, significant rise in grades when degree switched).

 

Thank you for your time!

No worries about 4 F's in 1st year.

You have a very good L2 GPA.

Get a 165+ LSAT you will be in a bunch of law schools. Simple!