FAMU Law to share tools for success during new student orientation

When members of the incoming class arrive at the Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Law for orientation on Aug. 1, they will be entrenched in an innovative program designed to equip them with the tools they will need to succeed during law school.

“Foundations for Law School Success” is a mandatory, 10-day orientation initiative intended to help new students build a strong foundation before the start of their rigorous law school journey. Set to run through Aug. 12, the program will focus on critical thinking, analysis and writing skills.

The FAMU College of Law expects an entering class of more than 150 students in the full-time day and part-time evening program as applications have increased more than 30 percent from 2016-2017. The 2017 incoming class will include students from across the country and from diverse backgrounds.

“We know that new law students are often surprised by the overwhelming amount of reading required for each class, the vagueness of the law and cases, the quantity of writing assignments, and the sheer volume of work required to be a successful law student,” said Alicia Jackson, associate dean for Student Learning and Assessment.  “A major goal of ‘Foundations’ is to serve as a bridge between students’ commitment to learn and the tools necessary to fulfill that commitment.”

Students will kick off the orientation with a welcome from FAMU Interim President Larry Robinson, Ph.D., greetings from Dean LeRoy Pernell, an administrative and student services overview and an alumni networking reception. They will cap the two-week program with a community service project, a session on FAMU history and traditions and a professionalism ceremony administered by the Hon. Faye Allen, Orange County Judge of the Ninth Judicial Circuit.

In between the activities, students will take part in an intense series of workshops and labs called “Essentials.” Using a building block approach, “Essentials” will help law students assess their previous educational experiences and academic needs, while acquiring the core critical skills needed to complete the groundwork required to meet the growing demands of law school.

“’Foundations’ will help smooth the transition to law school by providing students an early introduction to the academic rigors, principally giving them a head start on their legal education,” Jackson said.

The fall semester begins Monday, August 14, 2017.