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So working full time and not being able to study as much as I want is not only getting to me physically (I'm tired all the time) but emotionally - I find myself losing momentum during the week because work takes over and I'm slowly feeling like my law school dreams are impossible. I really want to go to a T14- preferably a T-7 but this process seems so impossible, sometimes I feel like giving up and just trying to get into SMU down the road (which is not a bad school just not what I envision for my journey). I'm really trying not to give up here but it's getting harder and harder :(
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52 comments
I'm a little late, but you are so welcome. :)
@tristandesinor505 said:
@zanesbit64 said:
Listen to your body and rest when you need to. However, this is just the start of the journey. You may come to a point where you have to make some tough decisions regarding what can be sacrificed during the next 3 years. If you can take more time off from work take it...if the dishes need to sit in the sink a little longer...so be it. I absolutely empathize with you, I'm going on my 3rd take in 5 months. My first score made me question myself, the second was a huge jump, but still marginal. So, I want to to give it one more round (this cycle). Try not to box yourself in...you have forever to make this happen. 170s are hard to come by, but it's possible with hard work. This I do believe. However, don't let forums convince you that you need a 170 or even a 160 to get into a good law school...URM or no URM. There at people in top 25 and 30 schools with 155ish scores (not sure what their GPAs are, but they are in there). I don't say this to have you lower your standards, but I do encourage ypu to not beat yourself up. I personally feel that 7sage has the best curriculum out there, but that's not to say every strategy will work for everyone. There's a method to the LSAT madness, only you can figure out how your brain will make sense of it and it may not be a cookie cutter method. Keep pushing, I'm sure you've overcome harder. You can do it!
Thanks friend! :)
@zanesbit64 said:
Listen to your body and rest when you need to. However, this is just the start of the journey. You may come to a point where you have to make some tough decisions regarding what can be sacrificed during the next 3 years. If you can take more time off from work take it...if the dishes need to sit in the sink a little longer...so be it. I absolutely empathize with you, I'm going on my 3rd take in 5 months. My first score made me question myself, the second was a huge jump, but still marginal. So, I want to to give it one more round (this cycle). Try not to box yourself in...you have forever to make this happen. 170s are hard to come by, but it's possible with hard work. This I do believe. However, don't let forums convince you that you need a 170 or even a 160 to get into a good law school...URM or no URM. There at people in top 25 and 30 schools with 155ish scores (not sure what their GPAs are, but they are in there). I don't say this to have you lower your standards, but I do encourage ypu to not beat yourself up. I personally feel that 7sage has the best curriculum out there, but that's not to say every strategy will work for everyone. There's a method to the LSAT madness, only you can figure out how your brain will make sense of it and it may not be a cookie cutter method. Keep pushing, I'm sure you've overcome harder. You can do it!
Thanks friend! :)
Listen to your body and rest when you need to. However, this is just the start of the journey. You may come to a point where you have to make some tough decisions regarding what can be sacrificed during the next 3 years. If you can take more time off from work take it...if the dishes need to sit in the sink a little longer...so be it. I absolutely empathize with you, I'm going on my 3rd take in 5 months. My first score made me question myself, the second was a huge jump, but still marginal. So, I want to to give it one more round (this cycle). Try not to box yourself in...you have forever to make this happen. 170s are hard to come by, but it's possible with hard work. This I do believe. However, don't let forums convince you that you need a 170 or even a 160 to get into a good law school...URM or no URM. There at people in top 25 and 30 schools with 155ish scores (not sure what their GPAs are, but they are in there). I don't say this to have you lower your standards, but I do encourage ypu to not beat yourself up. I personally feel that 7sage has the best curriculum out there, but that's not to say every strategy will work for everyone. There's a method to the LSAT madness, only you can figure out how your brain will make sense of it and it may not be a cookie cutter method. Keep pushing, I'm sure you've overcome harder. You can do it!
@tylerdschreur10199 said:
I hear you! Last summer I was working 55 hours a week, studying nights and weekends and I felt like I was going insane!
The biggest thing that helped me was exercising/Being active. It's hard to do because it seems like time taken from studying, but it pays off tenfold! I felt better physically, was less stressed, and just happier. It doesn't have to be a serious workout, I would swim, shoot some baskets or just destroy my roommates in pingpong, whatever gets you up and out of lsat mode!
Hope this helps!
Thanks! Yea I’m trying to incorporate a run a couple times a week into my routine. It is tough but it has helped!
@toniafisher1541 said:
@tristandesinor505 said:
@toniafisher1541 said:
@tristandesinor505 @figueroa10040
I think a post by Sages who worked full time while studying would be helpful!
I think I'm getting into the rhythm of it now. I've realized that I have to keep what's most important to me (family, LSAT, friends, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) and leave out the rest at least until LSAT day.
I don't know what would help people who work full time the most--maybe a group chat where we can keep encouraging each other? I think posts like yours where you've reached out for help are great because so many of us relate to it.
That is my 2018 mantra - Family + LSAT #1 in 2018 .... also do you really practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? :)
lol yes!! And actually it was someone on this forum who said martial arts helped them with LSAT that influenced me to start. :smiley:
Oooo! Do tell! :-)
@tristandesinor505 said:
@toniafisher1541 said:
@tristandesinor505 @figueroa10040
I think a post by Sages who worked full time while studying would be helpful!
I think I'm getting into the rhythm of it now. I've realized that I have to keep what's most important to me (family, LSAT, friends, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) and leave out the rest at least until LSAT day.
I don't know what would help people who work full time the most--maybe a group chat where we can keep encouraging each other? I think posts like yours where you've reached out for help are great because so many of us relate to it.
That is my 2018 mantra - Family + LSAT #1 in 2018 .... also do you really practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? :)
lol yes!! And actually it was someone on this forum who said martial arts helped them with LSAT that influenced me to start. :smiley:
I hear you! Last summer I was working 55 hours a week, studying nights and weekends and I felt like I was going insane!
The biggest thing that helped me was exercising/Being active. It's hard to do because it seems like time taken from studying, but it pays off tenfold! I felt better physically, was less stressed, and just happier. It doesn't have to be a serious workout, I would swim, shoot some baskets or just destroy my roommates in pingpong, whatever gets you up and out of lsat mode!
Hope this helps!
@toniafisher1541 said:
@tristandesinor505 @figueroa10040
I think a post by Sages who worked full time while studying would be helpful!
I think I'm getting into the rhythm of it now. I've realized that I have to keep what's most important to me (family, LSAT, friends, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) and leave out the rest at least until LSAT day.
I don't know what would help people who work full time the most--maybe a group chat where we can keep encouraging each other? I think posts like yours where you've reached out for help are great because so many of us relate to it.
That is my 2018 mantra - Family + LSAT #1 in 2018 .... also do you really practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? :)
@tristandesinor505 @figueroa10040
I think a post by Sages who worked full time while studying would be helpful!
I think I'm getting into the rhythm of it now. I've realized that I have to keep what's most important to me (family, LSAT, friends, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) and leave out the rest at least until LSAT day.
I don't know what would help people who work full time the most--maybe a group chat where we can keep encouraging each other? I think posts like yours where you've reached out for help are great because so many of us relate to it.
@sm537 said:
@toniafisher1541 said:
tringo335, Here is an idea. There is Texas A & M law school in downtown Fort Worth. It is tier 4 school. It is a lot easier get into than SMU. It is 4 blocks down from the AMtrak. You can still get in and they have a part time program as well. You apply there and transfer to SMU after 1 yr and have the grades to do it. You can still get in . It will put you a bit closer to SMU like 35 minute drive from I-30 in either direction. Stay off LBJ freeway is a nightmare at rush hour. Good luck your dream and don't lose faith. :-)
@tristandesinor505
I see you have already responded along these lines, but don't settle. T14 or Top 7 (whatever your exact goals), I think you should either keep pressing with the LSAT until you attain your goal or unless your goals change for a different reason than the work it takes to improve. That work is the best thing about the LSAT because it separates you from the people who won't study as hard or as long either because they don't know that it works or because they don't have a powerful enough dream to keep them studying through whatever trials they face.
Whether intentional or accidental, the LSAT is a gift to those of us with dreams. The law schools treat it like a measure of intelligence or aptitude or something fixed because US News and LSAC believe that is what it is, but at least for those who are willing to dedicate the time that is not what the LSAT is. It is a test where studying over significant periods of time can enable us to claw our way to a highly desirable application which we couldn't get if they just looked at GPA or a test that is easier to do well on.
Good luck with your journey!
Thanks for encouraging me to hold my ground @sm537 :) I think @toniafisher1541 was confused about which schools I was aiming for lol.
I appreciate your reminders to not settle and believe you're correct on the 'LSAT journey' it truly is a conquerable test and with the right amount of work anyone can beat it.
@toniafisher1541 said:
tringo335, Here is an idea. There is Texas A & M law school in downtown Fort Worth. It is tier 4 school. It is a lot easier get into than SMU. It is 4 blocks down from the AMtrak. You can still get in and they have a part time program as well. You apply there and transfer to SMU after 1 yr and have the grades to do it. You can still get in . It will put you a bit closer to SMU like 35 minute drive from I-30 in either direction. Stay off LBJ freeway is a nightmare at rush hour. Good luck your dream and don't lose faith. :-)
@tristandesinor505
I see you have already responded along these lines, but don't settle. T14 or Top 7 (whatever your exact goals), I think you should either keep pressing with the LSAT until you attain your goal or unless your goals change for a different reason than the work it takes to improve. That work is the best thing about the LSAT because it separates you from the people who won't study as hard or as long either because they don't know that it works or because they don't have a powerful enough dream to keep them studying through whatever trials they face.
Whether intentional or accidental, the LSAT is a gift to those of us with dreams. The law schools treat it like a measure of intelligence or aptitude or something fixed because US News and LSAC believe that is what it is, but at least for those who are willing to dedicate the time that is not what the LSAT is. It is a test where studying over significant periods of time can enable us to claw our way to a highly desirable application which we couldn't get if they just looked at GPA or a test that is easier to do well on.
Good luck with your journey!
@svmirto905 said:
@tristandesinor505 I completely understand where you are coming from. I also work full time and am exhausted and drained by the time I get home. I have been trying to take this exam for about 2 years now and kept putting it off because I felt i was not ready. I was not consistent with my studies and just lacked energy and motivation. This bothered me a great deal however, I learned to be more patient with myself and understand that this is a process. It may sound a little silly but I found that taking care of my physical health helped me a lot. I began to have more energy and mental clarity. You can absolutely do this! Just be patient with yourself and accepting of the fact that its a process and you will be ready when you are ready :) Trust me, ive started and stopped numerous times already, but i finally feel like I am mentally ready to remain consistent and tackle this. You have a ton of support with this great community on here! Keep grindin!
Giving myself time is something I had to learn too! This is my journey and no one else's. And as corny as it sounds, the phrase is true: 'it's about the journey not the destination'. I really feel like learning the LSAT and the process of persevering is going to make me a better law student and in turn a better lawyer.
@missmalocca448 said:
I will share a piece of encouragement from my tutor @tristandesinor505 . He said I should celebrate the small victories
I love this!!!
@toniafisher1541 said:
One thing I would say is give yourself more time. Don’t rush it. If you really feel like law is your calling, persevere.......even if it takes years. Working and trying to study can be overwhelming. Tell yourself worst case scenario is it may take years but if it is truly your passion, it will be worth it. Hang in there.
Thanks Tonia!! :)
@toniafisher1541 said:
Hi!! I remember we both want to do employment law @tristandesinor505! I'm so sorry you're feeling discouraged. I think the best antidote for feeling down and burnt out from LSAT is taking a week off (make sure to get enough sleep, get a manipedi, read a chill book). Every time I've done this, it helps A LOOOOOT and I return to the LSAT feeling encouraged and rested and my score gradually inches up.
I'm also totally down to do a "burnout prevention"/"going through core curriculum while working full time ands staying positive" meeting. (3(/p)
My employment law homie! lol Thanks for the encouragement. I mentioned in a post above about maybe making a thread specifically of Sage's who worked full time while studying and their tips and tricks for success. What are your thoughts?
@toniafisher1541 said:
tringo335, Here is an idea. There is Texas A & M law school in downtown Fort Worth. It is tier 4 school. It is a lot easier get into than SMU. It is 4 blocks down from the AMtrak. You can still get in and they have a part time program as well. You apply there and transfer to SMU after 1 yr and have the grades to do it. You can still get in . It will put you a bit closer to SMU like 35 minute drive from I-30 in either direction. Stay off LBJ freeway is a nightmare at rush hour. Good luck your dream and don't lose faith. :-)
My goal schools are T14 so SMU and Texas A&M are not on my radar at the moment but thanks for the tips :) I didn't realize Texas A&M had a branch in Fort Worth!
@lizetteramos217535 said:
@tristandesinor505 hey girl :) I've been hiding for a while and I typically don't comment as much. But it's always so nice to see your comments thought CC. I too get discouraged and feel that maybe lawschool isn't for me. But it's people like you that make me feel that I'm not alone and that we are all collectively going to (finally) kick some LSAT ass. Let's keep pushing ❤️
Thanks for the encouragement! I am happy I have been of help to others and that I have you all to carry me through :) Let's' kick some ASS!!!!
@wwijaya1190566 said:
May not help much, but make sure you get enough sleep. I find my mood and thinking skills decrease significantly when I get less than 6 hours of sleep for more than 2-3 days. Sometimes it is better to study less with a clear mind than to put in the hours when you're spent.
I finally learned this late last year. I was always a 5 hour a night sleeper until one day I got 8 hours and had the best day of my life ha! I've finally adopted good sleeping habits into my routing :)
@tristandesinor505 said:
@figueroa10040 @tristandesinor505
The great @mrosa1210177 has a great post about burnout here;
https://classic.7sage.com/discussion/#/discussion/3598/burnout-and-you
I'd be willing to talk about my experience with it as well if you'd like!
great read! I wonder if a thread of tips and notes from sage's who worked full time and completed the test would be helpful?
tringo335, Here is an idea. There is Texas A & M law school in downtown Fort Worth. It is tier 4 school. It is a lot easier get into than SMU. It is 4 blocks down from the AMtrak. You can still get in and they have a part time program as well. You apply there and transfer to SMU after 1 yr and have the grades to do it. You can still get in . It will put you a bit closer to SMU like 35 minute drive from I-30 in either direction. Stay off LBJ freeway is a nightmare at rush hour. Good luck your dream and don't lose faith. :-)
@toniafisher1541, A great idea and I want to join and help if I can.
Hi!! I remember we both want to do employment law @tristandesinor505! I'm so sorry you're feeling discouraged. I think the best antidote for feeling down and burnt out from LSAT is taking a week off (make sure to get enough sleep, get a manipedi, read a chill book). Every time I've done this, it helps A LOOOOOT and I return to the LSAT feeling encouraged and rested and my score gradually inches up.
I'm also totally down to do a "burnout prevention"/"going through core curriculum while working full time ands staying positive" meeting. (3(/p)
One thing I would say is give yourself more time. Don’t rush it. If you really feel like law is your calling, persevere.......even if it takes years. Working and trying to study can be overwhelming. Tell yourself worst case scenario is it may take years but if it is truly your passion, it will be worth it. Hang in there.
@svmirto905, Totally with you on the extended timeline journey.
You are NOT alone! I'm right there with you. Quitting is not an option. I will share a piece of encouragement from my tutor @tristandesinor505 . He said I should celebrate the small victories, and he was right. I guarantee you that you will be able to encourage yourself when you realize how far you've come. You got this!! Just keep swimming (in my Dora voice).
@tristandesinor505 I completely understand where you are coming from. I also work full time and am exhausted and drained by the time I get home. I have been trying to take this exam for about 2 years now and kept putting it off because I felt i was not ready. I was not consistent with my studies and just lacked energy and motivation. This bothered me a great deal however, I learned to be more patient with myself and understand that this is a process. It may sound a little silly but I found that taking care of my physical health helped me a lot. I began to have more energy and mental clarity. You can absolutely do this! Just be patient with yourself and accepting of the fact that its a process and you will be ready when you are ready :) Trust me, ive started and stopped numerous times already, but i finally feel like I am mentally ready to remain consistent and tackle this. You have a ton of support with this great community on here! Keep grindin!
@svmirto905, I'm there with you in this situation--also in the CC taking a long time--and am glad to talk more.
@tristandesinor505 I totally understand as I work FT as well and have felt the same way- tired, exhausted and sometimes frustrated because I do not see me progressing they way I'd like. It is taking FOREVER to get through this CC and I have the starter package lol. But I echo all the above sentiments and advice from others. One of my favorite quotes is, "The purpose of life, is a life of purpose." You have been purposed and called for this--becoming a lawyer. Where there is "vision" there is "provision". You have the vision of being in law school (as someone stated to see yourself there) and now the provision will be provided to you. The provision of wisdom, knowledge, clarity, understanding, stamina, energy and REST is yours. You got this and you will see/experience the fruit of your labor. In the meantime, "Relax, Relate, Release" (in my Whitley voice) and Wooosah! (in my Martin Lawrence voice "Bad Boys") :) I can't wait to hear how well you CRUSHED the LSAT!
@leahbeuk911 said:
@tristandesinor505 said:
So working full time and not being able to study as much as I want is not only getting to me physically (I'm tired all the time) but emotionally - I find myself losing momentum during the week because work takes over and I'm slowly feeling like my law school dreams are impossible. I really want to go to a T14- preferably a T-7 but this process seems so impossible, sometimes I feel like giving up and just trying to get into SMU down the road (which is not a bad school just not what I envision for my journey). I'm really trying not to give up here but it's getting harder and harder :(
Ugh I so hear you. I work full time too and studying on top of it has been so draining at times. One of the things that helped me was someone on here started a post asking about how people working full time handle a study schedule and the majority of people said that they study a couple hours on weekday evenings. I thought I was such a slacker that all I could seem to get in was about 2 hours max before my brain was done for the night, but it turns out - that's what most people do. Especially if you have a thinking job (I'm a bookkeeper) then your brain can only do so much in a single day. I learned from that to not beat myself up as much.
Also, I have off and on dealt with depression and as I got really deep into studying, I noticed that my emotions were getting out of whack. I think it came from spending so much of my time alone. That isolation started messing with my head. I learned that it was a requirement for me and my health to take at least 1 weekday evening off per week and spend it with friends. It was absolutely necessary to stay calibrated. Also I could study for the majority of 1 weekend day, and maybe a few hours another but also had to spend several hours connecting with people. Going to a movie together, have a couple friends over for wine and TV, whatever it takes.
Maybe what you need is something else, but you absolutely must take time for yourself to recharge and maintain your perspective. For me, it was time connecting with my friends. Might be something else for you. But it's crucial that you not let this thing take over your whole life; you have to figure out what you need and realize that it's ok to slow down the LSAT pace in order to take care of yourself.
You absolutely are capable of achieving what you want. It's not an unreasonable goal at all. But you need to pace yourself and do it in a healthy way so that you don't burn out. xo
AMEN goes right here! Thanks, I needed this too.:)