In the months leading to my college graduation, I finished the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) and was beginning to fill out my applications to law schools. I was faced with a decision: Go directly to law school or take time off. Arguably, there is some value to starting graduate classes right away. However, there is not much conversation about taking time off from school. 

It is important for new graduates to consider the benefits of taking a gap year. By my senior year of college, I was feeling mentally fatigued. I was not ready to commit to three years of graduate school. I needed to do something different and gain some experience. I also wanted a year to earn money and repay student loans. 

I have had the opportunity to clerk for a family law firm in Chicago. As a clerk, I gained first-hand knowledge of marital dissolution issues. I worked with attorneys and paralegals. I observed complex interaction between attorneys and clients. I worked with various teams in completing difficult projects. I became accustomed to the inner workings of a fast-paced law firm and formed relationships with attorneys who will continue to help me understand the legal profession. These experiences solidified my desire to attend law school. I encourage new graduates thinking about law school to consider taking a gap year and clerking for a law firm.