An Under Motivated, Over Achiever

An update and a New Beginning

2012-01-30T23:59:00.000-05:00

Well, to update anyone who happens to come upon this blog, I dropped out of law school and re-entered the world of work.

I returned to working at Banana Fanana and Co, LLP , which I worked at before I decided to leave to pursue law school... Unfortunately, I am HATING it!! I needed somewhere to voice my disgust and remembered starting this blog a while ago...So this blog is now going to be about the real world for a law school drop out.

I am ready to return to my hometown, but due to the economy feel stuck at BF&Co... I've put out resumes, but I kinda feel that without a advanced degree I can only go so far. I am considering perhaps going back to school for my MBA, but I first, need to pay off the 2 semesters of law school that I wasted my time attending...

Right now, I work for a company that doesn't appreciate me, which was blatantly shown in my bonus and raise (or practically lack thereof) and I work for a manager that seems to bring the worst out in me.... no matter what I seem to always make mistakes when it comes to him... We'll call him Meanie....

So when you see this pic, you KNOW I am about to rant about Meanie...

I am still under motivated, and still an over-achiever... Especially when it comes to my work..I don't feel motivated to do my best, yet I still want to.

Anyway, that is my update for now...Look for more updates in the future, as I've got lots of tidbits to share....

SELLING MY SUPPLEMENTS - DIRT CHEAP

2010-04-26T03:45:00.001-04:00

See me on ebay:

http://myworld.ebay.com/literalgemini

I'm Almost 30, Work or school?

2010-01-17T11:45:00.001-05:00

I am coming up on my 30th birthday and there are so many things I had hoped to accomplish by the time I was 30.

I can't believe time is almost out.

Well, now, my main thing to do before I'm 30 is to figure out if I really want to go back to school. Do I REALLY want to go down the lawyer road. Does it interest me at all? Do I really want to accumulate anymore debt? Do I really feel like hanging out with 22-23 year olds? Do I REALLY???

That is the question that I need to answer before my 30th birthday. Atleast I've got 5 more months to go. So hopefully I have some sort of moment of enlightenment where the answer is right before my eyes. I doubt it, but why not put it out there just in case someone happens to be granting wishes for the day.

Again, wish me luck.

Does this make me a 0L again?

2010-01-15T23:50:00.001-05:00

Does this whole situation make me a 0L again, or just a 1L on hold?

Just curious

Okay Okay, Where have I been

2010-01-10T11:39:00.000-05:00

Well. I took some time off from school. Actually I took a leave of absence.

My son got seriously ill, and it got to the point where I felt there was no way I could catch up in time for exams, so after discussing the situation with the dean of the law school, they allowed me to take a leave of absence for up to 3 years!! Wow... It won't take me that long to figure out if I really want to go back to law school, but wow.

Anyhoo, that is what I am up to now. Taking care of my son, and living the broke life as I try to figure out if I should go back to the work world or go back to school.

Wish me luck!!

Second Thoughts

2009-10-12T12:20:00.002-04:00

I dont think I want to be a lawyer. this whole law school thing is getting old.

Wow almost a month

2009-10-11T18:25:00.002-04:00

Wow, it has been almost a month since I last posted.

I would love to say that I am just so diligent that Ive been crazy busy with school work.... but then I'd be lying..
I've just been lazy. Felt like no one was reading anyone, so wouldnt be missed.

Well, I had the grand pleasure of being sick, CRAZY sick, flu H1N1 sick for about two weeks. So I was out of commission for about two weeks and yep missed THAT much school.

Good thing is I was able to get the classes taped, bad thing is, now I have to spend what little free time I have listening to them.

Anyhoo, nothing else really spectacular been up besides the sickness.

School is just going... going...going... I've attempted to start outlining, but my notes seem so sporadic that I have no clue how to organize what I've learned.

I tried, but I just ended up retyping my notes. I decided to supplement my notes with some of the crap that I can gather from all those supplements I bought.

Do I sound bitter?

Well, one thing that has been interesting is all of the BIG words Ive been hearing in class lately. I wanted to begin taking a tally of how many times I hear "judicially administerable". I swear I hear those words at LEAST 4 times each day... I would take a tally if it didnt seem so...~~rude~~? ~~irrelevant~~? ~~nonsensical~~? obvious?

But I think I will. Plus one thing I ant to start doing is, learning one really big word each day, and trying to insert that word in at least one of my classes. Just to try to see if I can do it, and see if I can impress any of my fellow law geeks with my wonderfully HUGE and confusing vocabulary.

Besides, the professors LOVE it when you use words no one else knows... The beauty of the socratic method.

Blah...

Legal Question: Liability

2009-09-18T18:55:00.003-04:00

Should Cartman be held liable for Kenny's death even though he no longer owns the amusement park? Or does liability for the death transfer over to the new owner???

Discuss...

Haven't Had a Monkey in a While

2009-09-17T18:35:00.000-04:00

This is how I feel right now....

"just bury me under a rock and leave me 'til sunday. But while I'm gone can you read my Torts, Crim Law, Legal Analysis, Contract and Civ Pro homework?...thanks!"

I.Dont.Wear.Mommy.Jeans

2009-09-16T12:19:00.014-04:00

(Title inspired by: I.dont.wear.skinny.jeans)

How ironic...so ironic that I had to use my lunch break to post this.

I decided to carry an over-the-should bag today since I only had one class, that required one book. (the other class was cancelled).

Well, as I was waiting outside of the classroom, for the class before us to leave and I heard some girls behind me:

Girl 1 : Uh, this bag is so freaking heavy..It's killing back.

Girl 2: Why don't you get a rolling bag?

Girl 1: Uhhh(in disgust) My mom keeps asking me if I want one of those. She said she was going to get me one for Christmas...but I'd rather get scoliosis than to have one of those things..."

Wow, I started laughing to myself and contemplated turning around and asking her, what's so wrong with a freaking rolling book bag...

I just don't understand why it is such a big deal! I mean really, how fashionable is it to have a huge, droopy book bag hanging off of your back? Personally to me, no matter how fashionable you are trying to look, a book bag just kills it.

An over the should bag is nice, but really, how much can you fit in the bag before you get a permanent indent in your shoulder (happened to me!!)

People say rolling bags get in the way in the hallway...
Well what do you think your big ass book bag is doing every time to turn a corner or look to the side...it is SIDESWIPING someone in the chest or face.

Just because my bag has wheels, it is considered the ultimate "no no", akin to old people with high waisted ill fitted jeans...

Hey I do NOT wear Mommy jeans...

Rolling bags are considered unfashionable,
Yet the alternative is to tote around a dirty, nasty, faded, droopy, 150 lbs bag on your shoulders...not sure what makes that any (if at all) fashion worthy.

Throughout the day I am constantly hearing
"Uh this bag is getting heavier every day"
"Uh my should is killing me"
"Man, I can't/couldn't wait to put this down."

So I just don't get it...

I just do NOT get it...

Also, a comment mentioned that I should be early or on time to class so I don't get into peoples way because of my rolling bag...

Uhm...how am I getting in their way? I am dragging my bag on the floor. Unless they are sitting on the floor, I fail to see how I would be affecting them if I came in at the last minute... Plus, I can always just PICK up the bag, I don't have to DRAG it all the time. In contrast, if I was carrying a bag on my back...wouldn't THAT be the ultimate safety hazard. With people sitting down, isn't the bag at complete eye level with your peers. So as you attempt to scoot your way through the aisle, you are more likely than me to injure someone by hitting them in the back of the head or the front of the face...

I am just not convinced why rolling bags are a no no. They (mine at least) make no more noise (actually less) than the click clack of my heels and make NO noise on carpet.

If you look where you are going, and weren't sniffing the perfume on the back of my neck then you wouldn't trip over it. It hangs out no further than that sack strapped to your shoulders, yet it is considered more of a nuisance because it isn't at chest level?

i just don't get this whole immature concept that law students should not have rolling bags. If any, they SHOULD, considering the weight and amount of books they are often required to lug around from class to class and in general, for health reasons. I can attest to that, after trying to be "cute" in high school and college. Now I am paying the price with my shoulders who are ridiculously sensitive. I'm sure that is partial due to genetics, but the over-the-shoulder thing definitely exacerbated it.

JUST THINK:
Just to one class you carry the following:

5 lbs Laptop
+5 lbs Case book
+4 lbs Rule book (Contracts/Civ Pro/BlueBook, etc)
+2 lbs Misc items
+4 lbsBag itself

20 lbs!! to just one class.. and that is a conservative estimate.

It doesn't count when you are actually heading to school or leaving school with ALL of your books for the day and all your misc items in tow.

No one has convinced my why rolling a bag is so bad... so if anything I've become bitter of the whole debate and angry at those individuals who feel it necessary to forewarn poor incoming law students the perils and social hazards of rolling a bag.

but then again, I am 29 years old.

Young enough to know better, too old to care...

Laziness...Funny Video

2009-09-13T17:33:00.006-04:00

Yeah I should be studying...But hey I'm lazy...or rather "under-motivated"...(*wink wink*) plus I think I'm entitled to a break...

Anyway, thought this clip was classic and had to post it. Everytime he says School or College, just think Law School instead... Makes the point beautifully.

Hilarious...

Memo Due and Twisted knee

2009-09-13T07:08:00.000-04:00

Sounds like the title of a rock band (Twisted Knee)

Well, it isn't. I think I twisted my knee sometime since Friday. Chunky Monkey keenly observed that "maybe it's because of the heels." Maybe...but will that stop me from wearing heels...NO!!

Anyway, I have my first legal memo due next Monday (not tomorrow but the 21st). Luckily, Prof Torts gave us some good reading material to assist us in this task.

He is so motivating...I love how when he was handing out the assignment he said to the class...(paraphrased):

"You are all going to do horribly bad on this first assignment no matter how hard you try. You are first year law students and I've been teaching for 15+ years so I know this as fact. Don't worry, the paper is worth only 15% of your grade.
I will do my best to refrain from writing in red ink all your papers so that you are still able read them and see just how badly you write. Make sure to double space so I have room to write all my corrections under every sentence. However, as there is only so much space on one piece of paper, don't expect me to correct everything. Only the blatantly horribly glaring errors will be pointed out...the rest will be up to you to figure out for next time ...Good luck"

Yeah, good stuff. Real Motivating...

Ridiculously, it still makes me want to try to do well, just to prove him wrong, which I know I won't do, but I'm trying to stay positive.

Wish me luck...

The Rolling Bag: A Law School Controversy

2009-09-11T16:00:00.002-04:00

I've just learned from Jansen at No. 634 that I am a complete fashion faux pas since I have a rolling book bag... Well, so what... I think I am pretty fashionable in all other senses, I've just got too many issues to not have a rolling bag:

1) I've got bad, very bad, (naughty, even) shoulders from trying to be fashionable in high school and undergrad. Lugging 25 lbs of books over my shoulders during my 2 hour commute is just not an option anymore. (although, I still consider making it an option every now and then)

2) Yes I've got a locker, yes I may still go to my locker in between classes with my rolling book bag, and yes I still have a rolling book bag... so what!

3) I am too old to care really (yes, 29 is old in law school). Maybe if I was just out of undergrad and didn't care what the affects of having a 6 lbs laptop and two 10 lbs casebooks slung over my shoulder would do to my body, I'd sacrifice efficiency for fashion (like usual) and get a cute over-the-shoulder Via Spiga bag to carry my crap in (the bag is cute,right? Buy it here). Unfortunately, that time has come where all my fashion choices have caught up with me in the form of horribly painful shoulders... well, at least I've still got my shoes!!

4) I have a 2 hour commute... by bus and train, which involves a lot of walking... to and fro...enough said...

5) Having a kid forces you to carry from 10 to 50 lbs everywhere you go for at least 5 years of your life (yes, you still carry them after they learn how to walk), I've gotten to the point where if I can drag it...I'm going to (Disclaimer: This obviously doesn't apply to children... you could...but shouldn't drag a child.)

6) My bag is cute... it's pink...and I think it's cute...

7) I think I'm pretty cute...and as long as I'm cute, having a rolling book bag doesn't matter...

So that is my "dissent" from the overwhelming majority of law students that think rolling book bags are for the birds...

If you're going to do it...(drag your books)...remember to do it well...
If you're worried about what other people think, get a tote or a book bag..

But, what ever you do, "Do what works for you..." (why does that sound so familiar?)

--------------------------

Interesting Articles on the :"Rolly Book Bag" Dilemma.

Jansen's Jack & Jill Scenario

Catatonic storm clouds Dilemma

Today in Law School...Big Screen Projections

2009-09-10T21:24:00.006-04:00

So today in law school...

For our reading assignment, in our Legal Analysis class, our professor decided to cherry pick some of our submissions (I'm sure with prior approval) stick them up on the big screen and have the rest of the class read and critique them.

Luckily I was NOT one of the unlucky ones, either having had my submission chosen or being chosen to critic. Man, did I feel bad for whomever those items belonged to.

The funny thing is I know the volunteers swore up and down they had done a great job on their writing assignment and were PROUD to put their work on display... ha ha...don't think so... at least not after MY class gets done with it.

Anyway, we came away from the whole dreadful exercise with some real useful info on how to form our legal arguments... I will share those insights by adding to the post specifically dedicated to legal predictive writing. Or perhaps I'll just start a new one.

So, what I learned today in law school is...
Whatever you submit to the teacher is open to being submitted to the class... So never overestimate the greatness of your writing, at least not in the first year, because you'll definitely be taken down a few pegs...

Annoying Classroom "Antics"

2009-09-09T19:39:00.007-04:00

Okay, some of the most annoying things that can occur in a law school classroom:

1) I know more than I know you think I know!!: When one or two people dominate class time by asking irrelevant questions in an attempt to seem more insightful and knowledgeable than they are...

2) Your Honor, the 1L is being Argumentative: When the professor is trying to make a point by using an analogy, everyone SEEs where they are going with the analogy, and one person just REFUSES to allow the professor to get there by continually arguing why THEY would see it the other way or why THEY would do it differently...

3) I Can't KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid): When one person starts stating things as fact using BIG words, long sentences and unnecessary legalese so that the rest of the class (and many time the professor) have NO clue what they are talking about.

4) So What Are Your Thoughts on World Peace?: At the end of EVERY CLASS, the same person rushes up to the professor to ask them some burning legal question about some current event that they are eager to 'discuss' with anyone who will listen.

5) If I Were You, This is What I Would Do: When one person always has a counter argument to anything that ANYONE says...including the professor...

6) Pick Me, Pick Me, I know, I know!!: When the same person continually raises their hand so much, you begin to imagine them squirming in their seat and squealing "professor over here, pick me...oooh please, pick me, pick me" Many times to the point that even the professor begins to BLATANTLY ignore them and starts picking out unsuspecting, innocent victims / classmates, instead.

7) By The Way, Speaking of..,: Every time this one person is called on, they start going "beyond the scope" of what is being talked about at the time... to the point that the professor even has to tell them to "chill" and not to rush into things they know nothing about... (paraphrased of course)

I'm sure there will be more annoying things, but for now these were the things that have started to really grate on my nerves...

------
Great Video that emphasizes something I forgot to mention, but now that I think about it, can be just as annoying. Courtesy of Jansen at no. 634 blog and http://theshark.typepad.com/

Writing Assignments: Predictive Writing

2009-09-07T10:54:00.005-04:00

Everytime I do homework I feel like I don't belong in law school. I ask myself "What the hell was I thinking...I don't belong here... I was a finance major for God's sake"

Although with my second writing assignment (in my Legal Analysis class) I actually got a pretty good remark from the teacher. Something to the effect of "Good start. Just next time try to use the precedent case more." Relative to the class she gave on the errors that many people made on their first assignment, this was pretty freaking good...

I also learned that legal writing is more predictive than persuasive. That was my confusion and I wish they would have explained this BEFORE our first assignment. I think most people thought it was meant to be persuasive, and honestly I've never even heard of predictive writing before now.

Well, for your (and my own) reference, main points to remember in writing a law school assignment:

Should be Predictive, not persuasive: How will a court actual decide the case - not how you THINK they should decide. Leave your personal beliefs (and any language such as "I believe") out of the equation.

Use the facts of the case to show what certain terms mean to the court. ie How does the court define reasonableness, competency, acceptance, what constitutes an offer.

State the rule of law that is at issue within the case.

Show an example from the case that is specific to that rule of law - regardless is it proves or disproves.

Use facts to draw similarities and distinctions between precedent cases and the current case

Predict what court will do based on past actions.

To draw similarities, use similar language and vice versa (ie use body of water instead of river vs. lake)

As I learn more, I'll add more. But so far so good.

Right now I am on my 3rd writing assignment (I know... so soon!!), this is the first for my contracts class. We have to determine (predict) whether a gift has been completed or not, when the person has died before physically handing the item over...

...Joy...

Study v Sleep

2009-09-06T07:32:00.002-04:00

The battle is on...

Study versus Sleep.

I studied (or rather read) Friday night and Saturday day. I meant to read a bit more satuday night but then all the sudden I passed out on my bed around 7:30pm and didnt wake up until 4:30 am sunday morning...

I couldn't believe I was so tired... So now I am down to 2 days (today and tommorow - labor day) to finish 4 days of reading...

Yah....yah...(not said enthusiastically) But I am going to try my hardest to do it.

Now if only I could stop yawning..

Catching up: What NOT to do...

2009-09-04T06:28:00.001-04:00

I've got a little catching up to do, I know, I know... shame on me. You are EVER 'spose to get behind on your reading...

What happened was I didn't read one(out of the 4 cases) assigned for my civil procedure class and criminal class.

The good thing is that there is just one case for each... The other good thing is I wasn't called on in class... The bad thing is I think the cases I skipped are pretty long - at least in Civil Procedure...the other bad thing is that we are still going over the case in next class so it isn't like I could just skip it since I still have a chance to be called on.

I will (try to) spend the labor day weekend catching up... and I will try my HARDEST not to fall behind again...

It is just that with all the reading, and these FREAKING writing assignments I just didn't continue reading through to the last case... I would read like 3 cases and just put the last case on hold... I needed a break.

THe only problem would be I'd never go back to it, until the few minutes before class where I would skim it quickly for the facts just in case the Prof. called on me... This TOTALLY didn't work when the Prof. would ask specific questions regarding a particular Justices reasoning to be for or against the ruling. It is almost impossible to skim a case and pick that out unless the case is 1-2 pages long.

Anyway, I will try not to keep doing that as my goal is to get a high grade in this class, an I am sure slacking off is not going to help me do this in any way.

Briefing and Note taking

2009-09-03T17:05:00.002-04:00

There is a big debate over the best way to take notes in class and the best way to brief cases.

i've only been in law school for two weeks and realized it really boils down to what works for you.

NOTES: LAPTOP vs. NOTEBOOK
Some people say that handwriting your notes is better because you are better able to retain and listen to what the professor says...

for me, it is the exact opposite. I can't handwrite and listen, because when I do my writing is completely illegible. At least when Im typing and I mispell a word, I have an IDEA of what I was trying to say (and if I dont the computer comes up with suggestions).

The way I type is to repeat interesting points that I hear, as I type it, so in a way I am reiterating it to myself. I try not to be a stenographer, writing down everything everyone says, but is someone makes a very good analogy, something I think will help me remember how something works or applies, hell yeah I write it down... Why not??

Plus I am more likely to go back to my computer notes to review since it isn't as daunting a task to review them or organize them as it would be if everything were written out on paper.

BRIEFING: BOOK vs. PAPER

Regarding briefing, I may be in the majority. Briefing on paper is a good exercise at first. But when you are reading 2-4 cases a night per class. Some with so much rationale from the court that it takes up about 5 additional pages, writing out the brief is often a waste of time and paper. If you can highlight the case (some use color coded) and write Precise summarized info in the margins, and just re-read the case before class, you should have enough info to give an intelligent answer to any question thrown your way.

I go between both. Many times, I will book brief a case (highlight) but actually type up the cases referenced and a summary of the rationale just in case the prof asks or want to make a point, since those are alot harder to locate over several pages.

Typical (nightly) Homework Assignments...so far

2009-09-02T06:34:00.002-04:00

How much worse does it get than this??

Criminal Law - p146-150, p159-168, p182-92

Contracts - p63-70, p154-172

Civil Procedure - p101-106, p113-122

Torts - p123-143, p153 - 157

Legal Analysis - p25- 36

How to avoid being called on

2009-09-01T19:22:00.001-04:00

Avoid Eye Contact - Especially effective in classes with no assigned seating and the professor doesn't yet know your name...

When you feel your professor coming to a question, or you see her look around at the class searching out a victim, stare down at your laptop, bend over a bit like you are intesively doing your best to understand / record what is going on in class and then type type type type type. Type about anything, type about nothing, type about how you are typing, type goobly glop, but just type...

...and if the professor looks your way (you of course see this out of the corner of your eye) and says Ms/Mr.... in your direction...just keep typing...

you didnt hear her, nor did you hear the question because you were soooo busy typing, understanding... Type Type Type Type..... or if you are writing your notes ...scribble scribble, scribble.

She doesn't know your name so perhaps the people in front,behind or to the sides of you will think she is calling on them and finish her sentence with their own last names... Doesn't matter, just type, type, type.... scribble, scribble, scribble

And if the Professor, does somehow unavoidably get your attention and if you don't know the answer you can just say (after a thoughtful pause, of course and kindly asking her to repeat the questions)... "I'm not sure" or "I'd like to consult co-counsel) and people won't think you are a total slacker who didnt do your assigned reading, they will just think that you were so intense on your note taking you weren't able to follow the discussion... or you are GENIUS for consulting co-counsel...

Not sure if it works... but that has been my back up plan.... So far the typing has prevented me from being called on when I didn't want to be... and the eye contact has caused me to be called on (even when I STILL didn't want to be.)...

I'll keep you updated to let you know how this works....

All one can do is HOPE!!

First Writing Assignment

2009-08-31T18:18:00.002-04:00

We got out first writing assignment in my criminal law class.

I am freaked out because writing is JUST not my strong suite.

It is due on Friday so I have a few days to figure it out, re-read it, change it, re-read it, change it,re-read it, change it, re-read it, change it, re-read it, change it, etc etc until the deadline where I will have to force myself NOT to re-read it and then change it, and to instead just send it off.

Other than that, there isn't much news to report..

Just a lot of READING.... Case after Case after Case after Case... I go between book briefing (highlighting and writing notes in the book) to outright case briefing ( summarizing the case in your own words, Procedural history, Fact, Issue, holding, rationale, etc).

The shorter easier cases I book brief. The long more complicated ones, especially those with a lot of comments from the ruling justices, those I may case brief, but sometimes, laziness overcomes me and I book brief those as well, using different colored highlighters to emphasize different things. It works, but you've got to remember what each highlighter means.

I usually just use two, Yellow for everything and orange for important points...
but I know law school confidential has a much more complicated version which I've been considering getting into, but just going between all those highlighters seems to be just too much work...

We'll see.

I (barely) survived week 1

2009-08-29T05:45:00.003-04:00

So I survived week one, barely

Apart from my computer crashing and having to get another one, to losing most of my first week notes due to corruption on my flash drive, to just overall feeling WAY out of my element.

Being surrounded by all these people fresh out of college, who have probably dreamed about "lawyering" and changing the world their entire life. They've studied philosophy, history, english or political science as undergrads and are utilizing their excessive knowledge of BIG (unnecessary) verbiage to attempt to impress the teacher and just utterly confuse the rest of us/me. I often find myself writing down words so that I can look them up later... ( I was a finance major, give me a break!)

Honestly, when is the last time I've heard "pragmatic" used in an everyday conversation? It sounds so much greater than it's actual meaning.

There is a lot of reading, but so far so good. Of course I know they are (supposedly) taking it easy on us the first few weeks, after which they are going to start piling the 40 page assignment on us. So far it is only about 20 pages... per night...per class.

I've identified the "gunners" in my class. The one that raises their hand to discuss an issue that the teacher isn't currently talking about. Who phrases their questions as statements of their personal beliefs. Who waits until the end of the class to dart up to the front to discuss with the teacher some burning social and political question that the subject of the day has made them feel obligated to discuss with someone, ANYONE.

I have no issue with talking with the professor when you need clarification, but why is it the same people, in EVERY class, EVERY day? Are they really that dense?

There came a point where I began to think I should have be rushing up to the professor after class to clarify some point or discuss some current event, but I just had nothing to say except my name and nothing to ask, except "So, can you clarify what is going to be on the final exam'?".

So, I questioned myself...should I have something to ask. Was there something I THOUGHT I understood but really didn't? Was I missing something? Am I so stupid that I don't know, what I should know? Perhaps I need to go up and get some clarification...

Man, those overachievers make you doubt yourself.. My only hope is that I score higher than them on the final exam...just to prove a point...

Brown nosing doesn't work in law school. (at least I don't think) aren't the final exams graded blindly?

I H8 VISTA, I LV LAW SCHOOL

2009-08-28T21:10:00.000-04:00

Well, not so much...

I broke down and got a new computer.

I thought it was pretty fancy but now it keeps corrupting all the docs I had written on other computers. All the docs in my flash drive are corrupted (first week of notes - GONE). I blame Microsoft Vista/

On A good Note

I really like all of my professors. They all seem pretty intelligent, nice and reasonable. the atmosphere at my school is pretty collegial, although everyone is so young... but besides that law school isnt so bad. There is a lot to learn and a LOT to read... a lot to memorize and alot of analysis. but the Socratic method isn't like what I thought. The professors aren't trying to trip you up, but rather get you to think about what you read.

So in that respect (as long as you did the reading) it isnt half bad.

I'm spoiled Technologically

2009-08-25T18:04:00.002-04:00

My father let me use his computer (which was pretty old) to take to class while I sorted out m issues with my own laptop.

Well, I should have known there would be a problem when he told me right before I went out the door "It won't charge unless the green light is on, so make sure the green light is on so that is charging."

Common sense says, if someone has to tell you how to do such a simple thing as charge a computer, then something is wrong.

Boy was I right... That freaking green light would NOT come on , and by my second class that dam computer had powered down and I was stuck attempting to write my notes in a notebook.

It went horribly. I couldn't listen and write at the same time so I literally missed about half of what went on in class because I was too busy trying to write legibly so that I could at least understand what I was attempting to learn..

Well, those notes are completely lost.

That sooo sucks. At lease I saved my notes on a flash drive.
**UPDATE: Flash Drives suck too, all my files are corrupted so I can't get to those either... Dear God, is there a point to this madness?"

Crash and Burn...baby

2009-08-23T17:58:00.001-04:00

that is what my computer did to me.

today, the day before the first day of law school, one of the most essential elements of my law school career has essentially crashed and burned...

It shut off because it ran out of battery power, so when I plugged it back in, it kept coming up to the DOS window asking if I wanted to start it in safe mode... Of COURSE any mode would work as long as I can get my crap!

Well, no...apparently the computer agreed on just one thing, all my stuff was crap and not worthy of retrieving. I'd select safe mode, it would act like it was starting up, even give me a flash of the start up window and then immediately revert back to the DOS window...

How much does THIS suck... Now Ive got to find a computer to use temporarily until I get my loan funds in and can either get mine fixed or buy a new one.

Wow, is this a hint?

Law School Musical

2009-08-20T19:24:00.001-04:00

Is THIS what I have to look forward to?

Studying and how to use supplements

2009-08-19T05:54:00.000-04:00

Okay, I've gotten many of my assignments for my first classes, so I've been reading, briefing and studying.

I've realized that the way to use the supplements is to identify the subject that the current reading (or class discussion) is on and only go to that portion of the supplement. I don't have to read the entire thing in order. I just read the portions that are related to class.

I finally got one of those "old English" cases. Yeah, it is a bit annoying the way they speak. Using 10 words when 5 words would do. I had to stop reading about 3/4ths through a case because I don't think I could take the "old English" anymore. I had to take a break. I'll finish it out today.

Thankfully, many of the professors have provided syllabai that show what each class assignment is and when it is due. That will no doubt be useful.

Other than that, just trying to not study too much since school starts soon and I don't want to overwhelm myself.

My Computer SUCKS!

2009-08-17T11:26:00.004-04:00

Okay, I was getting all prepared for school. Thought I was getting ahead of the game. Went out and purchased Microsoft OneNote after hearing rave reviews.

Opened the box, put in the disk and.....nothing..

I mean really, nothing.. My computer would NOT read the disk. For some reason my CD/DVD drive is broken.

So I went out and bought an external Drive....that wouldn't work either...my computer wouldn't read from it...

So I am stuck with this box of Microsoft OneNote that I CAN'T download...and a computer that won't read (and obviously burn) a disk.

So now I know I am going to have to go pay someone to try to fix it.. Worst nightmare is they can't fix it and I'll be stuck either:
1) having a computer that doesn't work all the way or
2) having to go spend money (that I don't have) to buy a new computer just so that it works...

This sucks..

My computer sucks...

Why oh why oh why....

Supplements BROKE me...

2009-08-16T21:14:00.001-04:00

I am so broke.

Yeah, I think it was the supplements that did me in...When am I even going to have time to read all these? And these aren't even ALL of them.

Top from Left to Right:
Blacks Law Dictionary
Burton's Legal Thesaurus
Examples and Explanation Series
List of Most Mispelled words
The Redbook
Understanding and Mastering the Bluebook
Siegel's Question and Answer Series
Gilbert's Law Summaries Series

Bottom: Law in a Flash Flashcards
Getting to Maybe

Time to Pay in Sweat!

2009-08-15T08:11:00.004-04:00

I was thinking of all the supplements that I have to read in addition to my normal course books. When am I supposed to read them.

My "husband" said that I wanted to go to law school, so now is when I start paying..."in sweat!"

He suggested this video... I think Debbie Allen say's it perfectly. Just substitute Law for Fame...

"You got big dreams...you want Fame. Well, fame costs....and right HERE is where you start paying... In SWEAT!"

Not all about law school

2009-08-14T05:27:00.001-04:00

Am I the Only One?

2009-08-13T22:43:00.005-04:00

Am I the only one preparing for law school?

I thought I wouldn't be, but as I a peruse the 1L Blawg atmosphere, it seems that everyone else is just sitting back waiting for the year to start.

Contemplating whether to cut their hair, enjoying the move to somewhere new, or just talking about how different it will be from undergrad...no panic...don't see the panic yet.

I've been out of undergrad for 7 years... I'm freaked out...

Am I the only one panicking? Am I the only one who already thinks their behind in their studies?

*cue sad violin music... now*

Hmmmm....so lonely....

10 To Do's Before Law School Starts in 2 weeks

2009-08-13T17:49:00.010-04:00

Print out Class Schedule Check
Open Bank Account Near School
Turn in Medical Form Check
Pick up Student ID, if possible Check
Call Registrar to confirm whether anything else is needed
Called Student Affairs to reserve a locker, if possible Check
Pick up remaining books from bookstore (esp. if books ordered online are coming late) Check
Test out commute - EXACTLY (exact time, exact bus, etc)
Research and buy commuting tickets (for parking, bus or train) if possible
Check out campus and classrooms you will be going to Check

Too many supplements

2009-08-12T08:25:00.001-04:00

My mother, after seeing all the books I kept getting in the mail, asked "Do you think you have enough books?"

I explained to her they were mostly supplements, but later when I got home, I stacked all of my "reference" guides into one corner just to take inventory...Yeah, I do have alot, but I don't have ALL of them. They all serve a different purpose.

Seigels is for exam taking
Examples and Explanations is for giving me...examples and explanations.
The flash cards are to just help in general
and the Gilberts are outlines to help me get the most out of each class.

But there sure are a lot of them.

(Note: the picture above is NOT an actual picture of my supplements, but it looks pretty darn close...)

Case Books are HEAVY: Briefing my first case

2009-08-11T00:47:00.000-04:00

Case books are heavy.... and I am not just speaking about picking up one and carrying it around.

Today I went over to my parents to study just so that they could watch (see distract) Chunky Monkey while I studied. So, I put my Torts book and my Blacks Law Dictionary (yes the big hardcover one) which is similar in size to my criminal law book, into my new bag, along with a notebook and my laptop...

Even though all I had to do was roll the bag, lugging it in and out of the car was a PAIN. Wow, just two books and a laptop were well over about 15 lbs I'd say... Maybe even more. It was crazy...

I absolutely need to get a locker at orientaion because I do NOT see myself lugging a bag full of books around all day....

Anyway, I promptly went out and bought a pocket size Blacks law dictionary. When I compared them to the other "legal" dictionaries, it had way more terms defined so with my B&N membership and a $5 off coupon I promptly bought the 1lb paperback and happily sped home to introduce it to it's new BFF, pink bag...

So that should lighten the load. Even though Ive read that some people don't need the dictionary... I personally was not an English major, nor have I studied latin. So, I will NEED the dictionary not only to read cases, but probably just to figure out what people are saying.

In the first case Im reading (assigned by the teacher already) is Ives vs South Buffalo Ry. Co. It is essentially a workmen's compensation case, where the guy is suing his company to receive lost wages from an injury he sustained on the job....

Well, this is my first chance to brief a case.At the recommendation of several books, and several Blawgs and several websites. I read the case once through without really taking that many notes. Just to get a gist of the case, where the judges were going with their decision and what questions were raised.

Now, I am going to read through it once more (I know time-consuming, but I have the time right now so I'll try it) and as Im reading begin my briefing. I actually think it is a good idea that does make sense -because the judge keeps going back and forth with which way he may go based on certain cases, so you have to read it through before you get the gist of what he is saying.

By the way, I got these CUTE magnetic bookmarks (again from B&N) that double over and stick to each other through the page. They are great as they don't bend and fall off like post it notes, and dont fall out like sheets of paper... Plus I can stick them anywhere on the page to note where I stopped reading... Plus, they are just cute...

I also purchased a hard drive, that was on sale. I decided the flash drive wouldn't be reliable enough since it only holds what I put on it. Whereas the hard drive backs up EVERYTHING...I have it set for 10pm every night...

I was thinking about all the supplements I've got... It is crazy

I ordered Siegels First year series
I ordered Gilbert's Law Summaries
I have Glannon Examples & Explanations
I ordered Law in a Flash - Flashcards.

All this in ADDITION to my case/textbooks....

Crazy... I am going to do my best to keep these as clean as possible so I can hock them on ebay next year. I've got to get some of my money back as I've easily spent WAY more money than I'd care to admit.....

I'm pretty sure Law School will suck...

2009-08-10T23:09:00.002-04:00

Thieves don't like books...

2009-08-09T10:17:00.006-04:00

I got my package. Some really nice guy found my package on the ground and brought it to my door.

So nice!!

So that is one package that I got... THANK GOD!!!

I guess thieves don't like law books.

----

** UPDATE**

I decided to post this sign on my door over the next few days (weeks if I have to)...

It says:

"Due to Vandalism & Theft
PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE PACKAGES UNATTENDED at doorstep.
Please leave them at the leasing office around the corner.
Thank you"

Busy Day...STOP, THIEF!!!

2009-08-08T23:14:00.002-04:00

Busy Day doing things un-law school related.

Would feel good if the work I had to do wasn't so tedious.

I realized that I can't see a thing and am going to have to break down and get some contacts. Wouldn't want to be in class not being able to read what is written on the board... (they have boards in law school, right? just kidding....)

Anyway, some bad stuff happened today....
I, supposedly, received a shipment today of one of my books. Unfortunately, the only thing left of the book on my doorstep was the packing slip.

Yes, you heard right, NOTHING was left of the book except a packing slip, meaning someone MUST have stolen it...

The thing is, the post office also left a pick-up slip on my door, and with the amount of books I ordered, I don't know if the pick-up slip and the packing slip are related (please, please, PAH-LEESE) or if they are two different things. One item having been stupidly left on the doorstep of an APARTMENT, and the other having actually been retained when the delivery person realized no one was home...

Ugh, if someone stole one of my packages, I do NOT think I need to pay... This is definitely a legal question, right? I mean, if I paid for a item, and never received that item (as it is the seller's responsibility to make sure shipment and receipt are completed) then I shouldn't have to pay...

I mean, what do YOU think...

Man, this sucks.... let's just hope that somehow the packing slip fell out as the delivery person was taking the package with them for later pick up by ME....

Goal: Organize Links

2009-08-06T22:29:00.001-04:00

I've decided I am going to organize the links by subject instead of just grouping them into one pile of mush. They are much too important to not organize.

Books - Good Process for Price Comparing

2009-08-05T16:03:00.008-04:00

My (Fool Proof?) Process for Price Comparing:

1) Print out (not write) book list, especially ISBNs
Copy and paste it into word and then print it if you have to, so that everything is legible and correct (ie ISBN's). So many numbers, and so many closely related titles, I personally just don't trust myself to keep them in order. Make sure to leave enough room between each books information (using lines to separate if necessary) to write small notations - see below.

2) Give each site you visit a short 2 - 3 letter nickname.
(Ie Barnes & Nobles - BN, LawBooksForLess = L4L, Amazon - AM, etc).
Also note Free Shipping as FS, and whether the book is new (N) or Used (U). Write the key on the first or last page for your reference.

4) Put all ISBNs in a word document.
Again, copy and paste it. If you have to type it, remember to quadruple check the number!
The benefit of putting the ISBNs into word is that you don't have to keep typing them over and over again when you search each site. All you have to do is copy and paste each number either individually or as a group - depending on how the site lets you search. It makes it go MUCH faster.

5) Go through the book list and the sites, listing only reasonable prices.
Write the nickname, the price and shipping etc within each box / space separating the book titles. If something is just WAY out of the average price range don't even list it... I personally didn't truly start price comparing until I finished going through the list since all of it can get a bit mind boggling. Just go through and refer to your list once your done. All you need to do is look and immediately compare.

BN - $55 N, FS = Barnes and Noble, $55 New, Free Shipping)
L4L - $45, U +10 = LawBooksForLess, $45, Used, $10 Shipping (rounded up if 9.99)

6) Don't rely solely on search engines.
They sound like good ideas, but don't let laziness cost you money. (Unless money is no object - than more power to you!) Search engines such as Bigwords.com or thefind.com (my personal favorite for all things BUT books) are good in concept, but many times they miss good deals, especially if you plan on taking advantage of some sort of membership program.

7) At the end of it all, just look over your list and quickly compare before buying.

Personally, having it all laid out in front of me was useful in that it made it easier to decide which sites I wanted to buy from and if I don't have the money immediately, I can keep it until I do. So if I miss the lowest price (ie if it was on Ebay) I just go to the next best price.

It also made it easier to just plain compare what was out there, and figure out an estimate of how much I was going to most likely end up spending.

Comparisons:
Used (in good condition obviously) vs. New,
Shipping Charge vs. Free Shipping.
Discounts vs. No Discount (ie Student Advantage and Barnes& Nobles)

*** UPDATE***

8) Keep Track of your Purchases:
Write down everything you bought, what website you bought it from, the price you paid, the method of shipment (ie USPS, Fedex or UPS) and if available the estimated delivery date.

This is useful in several respects:

a) You can tell whether something is late being delivered or just missing (see stolen).

b) Helps to make sure you don't buy the same supplements or books over and over again (almost happened to me).

c) I would think it would be useful to know how much you paid for items if and when you decide to sell them at the end of the year.

---

So far so good! I've got some books on the way (bought some of the supplements used to save on money).

I'll let you know if I run into any issues...

LINKS - Tips & Tricks #1

2009-08-05T14:18:00.010-04:00

BY Calculating B*tch on WishIWouldHaveKnown on Blogger
Links to Casebriefs, Outlines and Old Exams

From Attorney Resume.com, Sample Resumes for every station of our legal lives.
http://www.attorneyresume.com/arsamplework.php

Great Tip From Huma Rashid at Humarashid.com - Lightening the load of casebooks.
Instant Casebook PDF's

For Moot Trial / Oral Advocacy (?) From Paul Luvera at Plaintiff Trial Lawyer Tips.com
Cross Examination Principals

Exam Tips from From Nena Street at Lawyerist.com
10 tips for writing a Great Final Paper

Closed Book Exam
Open Book Exam
Take Home Exam

Also, from Nena
Winning the Law School Mind Game

From the Jurist.com at Univ of Pittsburgh
General Law Exam Links

Based on a poll by St. Louis University
Study Tips of Top Law Students

IRAC Got You Stuck? Tip From St. Mary's University
IRAC Trouble Shooting Tips (pdf)

From AutoAdmit.com - self described "most prestigious law school admissions discussion board in the world" (what a MOUTH-FUL). Some threads are useful, some were probably written while in class - just read the titles.
Quick Tips for Law School - Discussion Thread

From the Ivey Files at AnnaIvey.com
Top Tips for Legal Resumes and Cover Letters

Good Deals to Save Money (Books & Travel)

2009-08-04T06:36:00.009-04:00

Getting a good deal from Barnes & Nobles and Student Advantage.

1) I decided to pay the $25 for the annual Barnes & Nobles membership.

However I've already saved $50 on one textbook. (I looked everywhere else and it was a cheap - and new - as I could get it)

2) Also, I will be using Student advantage for commuting. I paid $40 (+ 2.50 shipping/handling) for 3 years beginning Aug 2009 and ending August 2012. (Hopefully graduation!)

However, with the discount I'm getting on the train and bus, it will pay for itself within 1 - 2 months. If I decide to go anywhere on Greyhound, or buy anything from the "participating partners" including B&N, it will pay for itself A LOT quicker.

3) Also, through a mistake I made late one night/early one morn, I found out that a lot of the book stores also sell on Ebay and Half.com under pseudonyms. They charge MORE on Ebay and Half.com due to the commissions, as the customer service rep explained. So, make sure to price check as many places as you can before clicking "proceed to checkout". The added time can save you a lot!

4) Also, when pricing books and materials, keep in mind shipping. Although, that book may be $5 less on one site vs. another or even locally, if you have to pay $10.99 shipping vs Free shipping (as on a lot of the bigger retailer sites) it completely negates the savings.

5) I can't emphasize this enough.... PRICE COMPARE... Open 10 windows if you have to... (*Update: I figured out a better way to price compare - click here)

Sites to find books: half.com, textbook.com, lawbooksforless.com, barristerbooks.com, barnesandnobles.com, Bigwords.com, textbooksrus.com, Amazon.com, Borders.com, and Im sure there are plenty others.

Anyone ever tried Craigslist? Or is the idea of it just too creepy?

To Get: Gilberts, Siegels, Flashcards & Facebook

2009-08-03T09:30:00.001-04:00

Thanks Huma for these wonderful "articles".

Supplements
http://humarashid.com/2009/05/27/law-school-supplements/#more-437

Blawgs and Blogs to Read:
http://humarashid.com/2009/04/12/blawgin-bout-9-blawgs-you-should-be-reading/

Word to the Wise: Definitions
http://humarashid.com/category/word-to-the-wise/

And No, I do NOT yet have a facebook.

I guess I need to just break down and get one...

Morning Person? Me? Don't think so..

2009-08-03T07:11:00.008-04:00

I am in NO WAY a morning person. Even though this post may state otherwise.

But I have my dog to thank for that. If it weren't for her licking in my ear, warning me that if I didn't wake up she would poop and pee all over the apartment, trust me....I wouldn't get up.

Also, if it weren't for the fear of law school that is looming over my head I wouldn't have made it a habit of actually staying up ( I could always just put her in her crate until I was good and ready to rise and shine!). But I am making the effort in an attempt to get my body clock ready for school.

However, as I was walking my dog at 6:30 this morning, I realized it is probably easy NOW to get up because it is still light outside. But when winter comes, and I have to wake up while it is pitch black outside, will I wake up?

That got me thinking of the sunrise / sunset alarm clock I read of in a Blawg entry by Legally Numb that I came across about a month ago.

I am getting mixed reviews, with some people saying it is worth it, others saying it is so cheaply made the price is not worth it, that it is just a 60 watt bulb in a plastic setting and do I really think THAT will wake me up?

So I just don't know if I should go there or not... But I know that I need to figure SOMETHING out BEFORE it becomes a problem. Maybe if I could find one under $100 that uses a 100 watt bulb.... I'll let you know how it goes...

----

UPDATE:

I think this is the one I want to get. Overall the reviews were pretty good (even the 1 bad one) and I like that I can use my own lamp and not some hard to get bulb designed solely for the clock.

Any thoughts?

Sunrise System Dawn Simulator Alarm Clock

----------

SECOND UPDATE: Look what I found at Hammacher Schlemmer

Sensory Assault Alarm Clock

Description: This jarring alarm clock uses high-decibel sound, flashing light, and a bed-shaking vibration pad to wake even the soundest of sleepers. About as loud as an idling bulldozer, the 85dB alarm prevents the most stubborn dozers from extending their slumber. The alarm clock connects to a lamp and automatically turns the light on and off in tandem with the alarm. A vibrating pad can be placed under a mattress or pillow and provides an insistent, bed-shaking tremor that serves as the last line of defense against oversleeping. The clock has an easy-to-read LCD and snooze button.

Wow, sounds scary...

PTLawMom and work

2009-08-02T11:46:00.001-04:00

I just read PT-LawMoms blog about working with a manager that demands too much time from you and working with co-workers/assistants that are more work to work with than helpful.

Been there, done that...

I remember when I was at my job at a large financial company in the Trust & Estate department.

Some of my...assistants were adding to my work woes as opposed to helping.

I would ask them to do something, and they would come back to me either argumentative, clueless or sometimes wouldn't even come back to me, instead choosing to complain to their fellow assistants or (worse case scenario) my manager, saying that I was asking them to do more than they they were required to do. ( I usually won out on this, since I wasnt asking more than was required, just more than other people were willing to assign to them - out of fear or retribution - Forget THAT! I needed to delegate so I did).

Anyway, I suggested she write EVERYTHING down, "delegating" by email or in writing as well as verbally, being as specific as possible and writing down steps if possible. Anticipating any questions the assistant may have, and if they still come back, you can refer to the email and also have "ammunition" or "proof" that you are really just the good guy having been put in a bad situation.
Life sucks, so does work, without having to work with people who make it even worse.
No one wants to feel stupid, so if you lay out everything from the get go, what can they do or say?
-----------
To PT-LawMom
From Just Trying

Been there Done that!! That is EXACTLY where I was in my last job before I “came down” with a disability and thankfully (although unfortunately) had to take time off.

You should speak to your manager (I hate the term boss) about the secretary. If she is meant to help you yet makes things even more difficult, she needs someone to speak to her.

As well, when you “delegate” to her, write out EVERYTHING, anticipating EVERY question you can…. Don’t just ask her to do it, email it to her in steps…. Be as specific as possible. It may be annoying at first to do all that and you may even look at it as added work, but really it takes less time to do it upfront than have to stop what you are doing to answer questions.

Plus, if you’ve emailed her very specific instructions and she still comes back to you, you have good amunition to discuss this with your manager and imply that she just isn’t very competent since you’ve given her everything she needs to know and she still can’t get the job done.

I dont recommend telling your manager something is impossible because that reflects badly on you, but writing down what you need to do and then going through the list with your manager to prioritize was a fantastic idea, because many times they forget the other stuff they assigned, and also see you as being motivated, thoughtful and realistic in writing down your duties, prioritizing and setting limits.

They can’t fault you for trying. Make sure to keep that list along with the duty email sent to your secretary, in some sort of file, (I called mine the Boo Hoo File) and all future lists, along with dates each item was assigned, completed and prioritized so that when it comes time for year end reviews, you have PROOF, if anyone tries to label “you” incompetent, that you are aonly one woman doing a superhuman job….

----------
INTERESTING BLOGS ABOUT BOSSES (and Monkeys!!)

Savetheassistants.com - Its-official-your-boss-is-an-ape/

Working for the Monkey - The-place-to-vent-frustrations-in-the-workplace/

Eric Shepards Blog - One-minute-manager-meets-the-monkey/

Fast Company.com - Your-Boss-is-a-Monkey/

Live Science.com - Sucking Up, Why-Monkeys-Groom-the-Boss/

Law Books for Less...

2009-08-01T11:54:00.002-04:00

FYI - http://lawschool.about.com/od/survivinglawschool/tp/lawschoolbooks.htm

Most of my books are coming from Amazon.com or Barnes & Nobles. One is coming from Textbook.com. I did a whole bunch of comparison shopping and so far Amazon and B&N (with the annual membership) have the best prices.

With the B&N membership I get at least 10% off of everything. Plus they have a new promotion where you get $50 in coupons once you sign up. (Annual membership is $25)

I've got....3 weeks until orientation and 1 week to wait for my check to clear so that I can actually begin buying books....

So that leaves me a scant 2 week window to GET my books....at least if I buy them online...

Hmmm, I hope I don't have to break down and buy them at the bookstore.... It'll kill me AND my wallet.

Click for Other Good Sites for Textbook Buying

Girly Girl Nerd in Me...Pink Supply List

2009-07-31T18:24:00.003-04:00

My new Bookbag/laptop case, a clip on book light (for study time on the train), a pink padlock (for my - locker).... and my new PINK optical mouse!! (I finally broke down and decided to get one, once I found using the little touchpad on my laptop was giving me a cramp in my wrist and was just plain inconvenient)..... Loves IT!!!

http://www.zappos.com/n/p/p/7554802/c/559.html

- Large main compartment with a zip closure.
- Padded laptop sleeve holds most 17" laptops.
- Front organizer panel for easy access.
- Dual side mesh pockets.
- Retractable pullman handle for easy travel.
- Tuck-away shoulder strap system.
- Durable and quiet urethane wheels.
- Dimensions: 12.5" w across middle x 20" h x 9" d.

Organizing and Prepping for 1st day

2009-07-30T15:43:00.000-04:00

I have soooo many papers that I needed to organize into some sort of order.
The papers were all meant to be helpful in some way...such as sample outlines, practice exams (I copped from a previous law school I was admitted to but deferred then withdrew from), hints, tips and tricks etc.... even scholarship info for next year. But it was just in this HUGE pile in my room.

SOOOOO, today I actually organized everything... I couldnt find my hole-puncher so some of the stuff is just stuck in my "Good to Know" binder, with the intent to later impale it.... (Wow harsh words).

Anyway, Im so proud of my accomplishment since I did nothing else law school related but this... I didnt even really look at the exams.

One Issue I am having is with the practice exams that have hand written answers. One paper teasingly states "HIGHEST SCORING PAPER" yet the handwriting is illegible.... What the F**K? How unfair is that?

At least now a days people type their papers, so the more recent papers are better. But I have a whole STACK of handwritten exams that I can't even look at more than 5 minutes, before my eyes start crossing from all the cross outs, arrows, margin notes and just plain crude handwriting... Oh well, if I get REAL desperate I will take a look at them, but for now, they go into my "hold for later potential recycling" pile.

Aren't I such a good Pre-L student!! Attempting to get ahead of the pack!

With all this "Studying". "Research" and what-not, I better score pretty high on my exam or I am going to be verrrrryyy upset... At least it would be a lesson learned for you....

Yahoo Answers - What I Need for Law School

2009-07-29T18:03:00.003-04:00

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080623225941AAGCb28

Question:I'm starting law school in August, and would like to start getting myself prepared. Does anyone have suggestions on what supplies I should start looking into (laptop suggestions, backpack suggestions, laptop carriers, etc etc)?

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ANSWER 1:

1) Laptop: (Check) I used one my first year, but then the screen went out (right after the warranty expired), so I used notebooks (e.g. good old pen and paper) the last two years. Personally, I would recommend pen and paper. Taking notes on a laptop turns most people into "the court stenographer" (which is what most of my professors called them) because you just type whatever the professors says and you don't take anything in. Also, having your laptop introduces the urge to play solitaire, surf the web, or chat with your friends. It's a distraction and you can live without it. Also, you want have to be lugging around a $1,000+ piece of equipment, no matter how light it is. Additionally, there are the horror stories (laptops crashing and destroying all of your notes the week before finals). I'm the kind of person who needs to write things down with my hands and draw charts, etc., so taking notes by hand was really invaluable. Also, my grades jumped when I dumped the laptop, as did those of several of my friends who did the same.Before I forget, my school had some deal with Lenovo: I would not recommend them. They screwed up my order and I found out 2 days before school started that they had cancelled my order (despite the fact that I had made the order several weeks before). Ridiculous.

2) Backpack: (Check) Another reason to dump the laptop. Seriously, law school books are insanely heavy. And you will have a ton of them. Most schools have lockers where you can store them between classes, but you will at some point have to cart them to and fro. I tried the regular backpack thing (with the separate laptop bag) during my first year. By about a month into school, my back was killing me and my backpack was falling apart. So I bought one of those rolling laptop cases. My back didn't hurt, but the bag didn't have enough space to hold my books, and the seams split. I then upgraded to what I believe was actually a piece of luggage (Swiss Army roller bag) and that was awesome. Plenty of space for my laptop and books, and very durable. Until the next semester. I dumped the laptop, but had two classes that required separate binders and books. So I bought another Swiss Army roller bag (this time one that doubled as a huge backpack, see below). On lighter days, I could use a regular back pack, but I used the giant bag on the day when I had more classes. THE LESSON: get a roller bag. You will look like a dork, but it's better than have the spine of a 90 year old when you're not even 30. Moreover, get one that is really durable (again, I'm a Swiss Army fan) because you will wear it out.

3) Misc supplies: it depends on what you like. I started with multi-colored highlighters (Check) and had a system (each color was for a different part of the case) that would help me identify the different parts of the case. That helped at the beginning, but I dropped it halfway through the first semester. By the end I was just taking notes in my book with a pen or pencil. I would recommend some post it notes of different sizes (Check) (so you can write questions you have about a case, or write down questions that you think of during class that you want to ask later). I'm also a huge fan of removable index tabs (Check). I marked each case so that I could flip to it quickly if need be). There's a guy on ebay who sells them really cheaply: http://stores.ebay.com/InkPaper-n-more. (Doesn't exist anymore). He has decent prices on a lot of stuff. You will defintely need some sort of calendar.

4) Make a schedule and stick to it. (In Progress) Our school told us to budget 2-3 hours of studying for each hour of class. It sounds excessive, but it's about right (some classes will require less, some more). Block out a schedule of your classes and when you will study for each one.

5) Go to class and take notes. (OK - Will Do) You might know someone who will give you their notes if you miss class, but be selective about who you get your notes from: don't ask the chick who is reading celebrity gossip blogs during class for her notes. Make friends with people who actually pay attention in class so that you can miss class and not feel completely lost. I usually had one person in the class who I felt comfortable asking for notes (and relying on said notes); if we both missed a class, we just went and talked to the professor about the reading. That being said, I rarely missed class and, if I did, it was usually for a good reason (although I did take an afternoon off to celebrate when Donald Rumsfeld resigned).

6) Do the readings ahead of time and then review your notes or what you wrote in the book before class. (OK - Noted) While you can get by if you just go to class, you can't succeed unless you actually do the readings. Anyone who says otherwise is full of it. Some professors never call on people, others call on people in a certain order (so you know when you're "up"), and others call on people in a seemingly random order. You don't want to get called on when you haven't done the reading. It's embarrassing (or it should be) and sometimes they won't let you off the hook. I had one professor -- who I had for 4 classes -- and during that entire time I forgot to do two readings (one case and an article). Each of those times, he called on me. They have a sixth sense for these things and they take sick pleasure in watching law students squirm. They also have finely tuned BS detectors, and they talk about students incessantly outside of class (amongst other professors). So, if you don't care that you're the laughing stock of the faculty, then go to class unprepared and BS your way through it. But if you care remotely about your reputation and getting recommendations, then be vigilently prepared.

7) Study groups: (Not sure if I want to go there) a lot of people say that law school is exactly like high school, which it can be. Whether it's that way by nature or because people are immature is up for debate, but one of the ways 1Ls get caught in the peer pressure loop is through study groups. If you find some people you like and they seem relatively level with you on academics and study habits, then form a group. If it's just people you hang out with at lunch, think twice. You don't want people who, to be blunt, are dead weight. They will drag you down, come to each meeting unprepared and contribute nothing to the group. Cut them loose. Also, watch out for the leeches: people who just want to drain you of whatever resources you have. They might be smart, but they're lazy. I don't necessarily buy into the whole competition at all costs thing, but don't bend over backwards to help people who won't even help themselves. I know a lot of people who formed a group and then split up classes (i.e. one person would take notes and write the outline for that class and then share it with everyone else): don't do this. It's stupid because 1) anyone in the group could be an idiot and 2) it means you haven't engaged with the material in at least 3-4 of your classes. It's a recipe for disaster.

8) Get 8 hours of sleep a night and make your bedroom a law school-free sanctuary. (I'll try...) Study in your living room, dining room, or the library. But you need a place where law books are never allowed. Start your outlining early (i.e. when you finish the first chapter in each class) and add to it as the semester progresses.
Source(s):
Here's a bag like the one I had: http://www.luggagewarehouse.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=8231. NOTE: I did not pay $350 for mine. You can get them cheaper than that.
1 year ago

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ANSWER 2 -

I'm about to start my 3rd year in Law school. here are my suggestions:

1. Laptop: definitely get one it will be invaluable when you start outlining your classes. also, get the lightest one you can afford. law books are crazy heavy and you wouldnt think that a 7 or 8 pound laptop would be all that bad, but trust me, it is.

2. Binders or folders for handouts. some professors give lots, some not any. but its good to have a place to put them if they do.

3. Highlighters. you'll probably use at least one package per semester until they're completely dry.

4. Small post its or those little flag ones helpful, especially if you have a code book.

5. Good bag. by good I mean one that is really sturdy and comfortable to carry at least 15 pounds in. try it out before you use it at school. like i said, the books get HEAVY. you want something that you can carry with weight in it that won't kill your back. if you're really small or have any sort of physical problem, get one of those roller bags. it might make you feel like a dork, but you'll be grateful for it.

--here's another tip for you. when you start law school classes you'll get all kinds of recommendations for supplements for your classes from professors, other students, etc. don't start out buying them. they can add a couple hundred dollars to the cost of your books, so wait and see if you actually need them before you spend the money.

--dont wait until the last minute to outline your classes. you'll learn all about outlining at orientation. keep up with your notes and go over them as much as you can. if you dont exams are going to be brutal. if you do, you'll be ahead of most other people and wont find exams nearly as stressful.

--also, go to class. even if you don't keep up with the reading you'll be ok as long as you go to class.good luck

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MY OWN TWO CENTS (SENSE?):

1) Buy a lunch box to hold lunch (and early dinner) - It will get expensive eating out all the time

2) A daytimer, or some sort of scheduling date book - To write down not only your schedule and important deadlines, but your daily homework as well(obviously)

Slowing Down....Possible Reconciliation?

2009-07-28T13:31:00.000-04:00

Gave up on Dirty Dozen. It was a nice try, but an annoying book. Or perhaps I just lacked the motivated to read about cases that haven't yet been assigned.

I am starting to slow down. Not studying as much anymore.

Thinking of reconciling with my husband (bridal showers do that to you).

My wedding ring got stuck on my finger (tried it on just for old times sake) and I couldnt get it off for 4 days. But finally my finger went down and I was able to pry it off.

Everyone is on the fence about whether to reconcile or not...

We'll see.

Perhaps the first year of law school isnt the best time to think about that.

It's OFFICIAL

2009-07-27T16:13:00.000-04:00

I am REGISTERED!!
I've got my class schedule.
I know what section I'm in.
I even have my book lists.

So it is officially OFFICIAL.

I'm going to LAW SCHOOL....

I'm scared...Yikes

Books Im Reading and 0L Organization Tip

2009-07-26T10:06:00.000-04:00

All from my friendly neighborhood library

The Dirty Dozen : How Twelve Supreme Court Cases Radically Expanded Government and Eroded Freedom by Robert A. Levy, William Mellor

Haven't got that far into it yet. Just reading the intro it seems very Pro-free market and very much against public regulation (very republican). But the cases that they cite are very convincing and pretty interesting.

I personally feel that government should be an objective third party, whose job it is to make sure private corporations don't take advantage of the little people. However, we all know that with lobbying and campaign contributions, it makes it quite hard for ANYone in government to be objective.

Law School for Dummies by Rebecca Fae Greene

Really easy reading. I pretty much skimmed the chapters on Law school, skipping the chapters on How to get into law school (been there done that!) and saving the chapters on 2L, 3L and after law school for a later time. (It's a library book, so I'll make a mental note to check it out again)

It had some good information on briefing and outlining, even providing a sample of both. (the outline was just a brief sample since apparently outlines can get pretty long).

I made a copy of both and put them in the section of my "Good to Note Book" under Case Briefing and Outlining.

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Yes, I have a notebook specifically dedicated to the intricacies of law school.

There is a section on research. One on Case Briefing and Outling. Another on Exam Taking.

All this info that I am gathering from reading all these "How To" books, is NOT going to stay put inside my head in any sort of manageable order, so I've decided to put them outside of my head in a some sort of order for later reference.

We'll see if it works.

No Study Just a Bridal Shower

2009-07-25T22:09:00.000-04:00

Went to a bridal shower today for one of my good friends. I was the bitter one at the shower (although I tried not to be)

Everyone gave her lingerie and gift cards. I gave her a bottle of wine. My initial thought was to put in the card "I know you are not much of a drinker, but now that you are married you may want to reconsider".... but then I thought that sounded just a bit too bitter so instead I wrote "Pop this champagne to a good and fruitful life together. Best Wishes". I know it was wine, but champagne sounds better when you are talking of "popping" things.

I admit, I am the Miranda of any Sex and the City like group of friends. I am bitter, sarcastic and don't really give a D-A-M-N. Although I really do want to be loved. Anyway, I wished her the best and tried to avoid talking about my failing marriage by engaging her in law school talk.

She is a rising 3L and is interested in going into international law. We are going to brunch tomorrow just to chit-chat about life and also give her a chance to "warn" me about what I've gotten myself into...(law school) and for me to "warn" her about what she's gotten HERself into (marriage).

Well, no studying today. Just relaxing and enjoying friends.

I keep looking at the 5 library books I've got checked out, telling myself that I have to at least SKIM them before returning them, because God knows when I'll get a chance to check them back out... ( I am trying my HARDEST to not buy unless I have to).

Also, after checking out Law school confidential, I found that I actually OWNED a copy that I had bought about a year ago.

So all those copies I made from the library were a bit uneccessary.

Oh well, doesnt matter....again no law school stuff today. Just relaxation.

Welcome Night...Am I a "Gunner"?

2009-07-24T10:46:00.000-04:00

So, I attended Welcome Night.

It was interesting.

I, of course, had TONS of questions, and I felt dumb for constantly raising my hand and didnt want to seem like a "suck up" but I had sooo many questions like:
- When can we apply for lockers
- Are seats assigned in classes
- When can we pick up our UMB ID
- Approximately when will we be notified of which section we are in.
- When can we expect to get a syllabai from the professors? First day of class or before that?
- How many students are normally in a class/section?

See they weren't "BAD" questions. Just curious questions.

Anyway, I came away with some more "To Do" items.

* Sign up for my insurance card.
* Turn in Medical Form
* Look into getting a Lo-jack or lock for my laptop
* Set up school email account
* Look into getting Microsoft One Note
* Complete reading for Orientation (Done)
* Call Registrar and Fin Aid Office to confirm if there is any more paperwork needed.

Other "To Do's" that I want to do, just to stay ahead of the game

* Look up local law firms that I am interested in Interning with
* Draft cover letters
* Update Resume to show 2012 Graduation Date
* Revise Resume to emphasize legal experience

Un(der) Motivated

2009-07-23T19:43:00.000-04:00

Wow, after being corrected by ButterFlyFish, I now feel like I'm not learning ANYTHING from my self "prep" course. It almost makes me feel like I need to just shut the books and wait until class ends.

No studying today. Just can't do it.

The lack of motivation is setting in....

I knew it was coming sooner or later...just didn't know what would set it off!

Hmmm...what now?

Thanks Butterflyfish! Clarity on Battery Case

2009-07-22T13:58:00.000-04:00

Butterflyfish was nice enough to correct me on my misinterpretation of Battery vs. Negligence....

That is JUST what I am looking for. If I say something that makes NO sense, or is just wrong...PAH-LEESE correct me before the professor does. Trust me, I will appreciate it IMMENSELY, no matter how WRONG I am....

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Professor acquitted in kissing, battery case
Story

Edith Brady-Lunny eblunny@pantagraph.com Posted: Tuesday, May 1, 2007 12:00 am

BLOOMINGTON - A former theater professor at Illinois State University was acquitted Tuesday of battery and official misconduct charges that said he kissed a student who contends the attention was unwanted.
Theater professor Patrick J. O'Gara, 63, faced two counts of official misconduct and one count of battery at a bench trial before Judge Scott Drazewski.
The judge granted a defense motion for a directed verdict that dismissed the official misconduct counts at the conclusion of the state's case. He acquitted O'Gara of battery after hearing from the defense's single witness.
Drazewski cited testimony from ISU senior Jay Worthington that the professor had kissed the student at least 50 times over the course of a year without being told that the behavior was bothersome.
"The charges make for good theater but the state is required to prove the charges," Drazewski said in making his ruling.
He said O'Gara may have violated a directive from the university to stop the conduct, but the matter should not necessarily have ended up in a criminal-court room.
After the acquittal, O'Gara exchanged hugs with a large crowd of supporters who surrounded him in the courtroom.
In comments afterward, O'Gara said he was "over the moon, after eight months of going to bed every night with a weight on my shoulder that I didn't feel was justified."
The theater professor said he was surprised by the allegations that his hugs and kisses were considered battery.
"I am a very expressive, emotional man. I'd never been told by anybody that I had been offensive," he said.
Worthington testified that he filed two complaints with the university's affirmative action office regarding the hugs and kisses. He admitted those complaints came after he was kissed many times.
The professor was told, according to testimony from ISU ethics officer Shane McCreery, to stop the behavior after Worthington's first complaint near the close of the spring 2006 semester.
On Aug. 18 alone, the student and professor had three encounters prior to auditions for school theater productions.
"He grabbed me rather forcefully, pulled me in and kissed me for an extended period of time on the mouth," Worthington said of his contact with O'Gara. He described the kiss as open-mouthed, "a romantic, sexual kiss."
Worthington said he believed the contact was made "as a sign of power, a bullying aspect, to show control and authority."
The student said he did not challenge his teacher for fear of retaliation. He denied that his reports to university officials and police were related to his opinion that O'Gara should not be head of the acting department.
Theater student Michael Miserendino viewed O'Gara's behavior with students differently. He said the encounters were non-threatening and helped students set aside any inhibitions they may have about showing their emotions.
"To be truthfully honest, I did not mind" the contact, he said.
Assistant State's Attorney Jane Foster argued that O'Gara's behavior was inappropriate.
"This professor should have known you don't kiss your students, the people you supervise," she said.
Posted in News on Tuesday, May 1, 2007 12:00 am Updated: 2:52 pm.

"Why Do Crack Heads Pick Their Face?!"

2009-07-21T00:00:00.001-04:00

Today I decided to be a total nerd, and made my way to the law library of my new school. I was reading Legal Research : How to find & Understand the Law by NOLO. (14th edition). (Got it from my local library!)

On pg 13 they had this library research exercise called "Paperchase",which was the equivalent of a law library search and find.

Well, I decided to make a copy of it and try my hand at navigating the library. I'd rather do it now when I had the time to get lost and just wander. (The librarian asked me if I was in a library club. I immediately felt like the biggest dork on the face of the earth, but I explained I was not and continued asking questions - what IS a library club anyway?)

So, after I did the search and find, and made some minor updates to some of the questions that must have been a bit dated, I decided to just wander around the library and see what kinds of books they had.

I also took the chance to go to the circulation desk to get a map of the library and ask some questions about where certain things were, etc etc.

Anyway, one of the librarians was showing me the "reading room" which is a room full of books, magazines and newspapers you arent allowed to check out. While he was doing this, I kept hearing what sounded like people talking, but there was no one else in there except me and him. Suddenly, I realized the "talking" was coming from my purse, so I thought it was my phone but I didnt know why it sounded like a recording.

So I paused to listen and suddenly I heard, not too loud, but clear enough... "Why do crack heards pick their face?!" WHAT??? "Why do crack heads pick their face!?" and repeat....

Auuggghhh!!! I quickly started digging in my purse to retrieve the new recorder I had just bought to help record my thoughts and keep reminders (as well as tape classes if the professors let me).

A few days ago, my mother and I noticed a group of people who seemed to be completely randomly thrown together. One was quite jittery and we both assumed they most like "crack" friends (dont ask me why it had to be crack) and I pointed out the scars on one of the girls faces. My mother asked me why they pick their face, I said "good question" and promptly recorded the question on my nifty recorder for later research...

Now, how appropriately, my recorder was screaming out to me..." You are in a library, now RESEARCH the answer to "why do crack heads pick at their face.'Do it! Do it NOW!"

Wow, how embarrassing.

I don't think the guy realized what the recorder was "spewing", but I realized that throughout my 3-4 hour stay at the library, as I casually strolled the stacks and stole peeks at the students diligently studying during summer, when I just simply thought some people were talking in the background, it was actually my recording "bragging" to the students in the library, what my next big research project was going to be about.... Crack heads....and their faces!!!

Wow...

No Study today for me...not by my choice

2009-07-20T16:04:00.000-04:00

I left my book at my apartment, and I am currently at my parents house where my son is outside playing with one of his "best" friends. I can't leave him, but I left my books at the apartment thinking I would stop back by after running some errands before coming here. Unfortunately, we came straight here and now I have nothing to study or even do...

There is NOTHING on TV, at least nothing I'd like to watch. I've already watched the reruns of 3 of my guilty pleasures: 16 & Pregnant (MTV), Bridezilla (We TV) and Intervention (A&E). I could look to see if there are any reruns of Paris Hiltons New BFF on On Demand...

At least that might keep me busy for the next 45 min, I guess.

I can't help but feeling like I am falling behind. With all the studying I've been doing lately, going it has become a habit, so having nothing to study feels like I am doing something wrong...like I am falling behind...failing...

That is horrible, especially since school hasnt started yet. But that is my fear. I have so many other responsibilities outside of school I feel like I NEED to start out ahead just so that I don't fall behind... and I feel like going a day without studying is going to catch up with my in the middle of the semester. I don't want to think that there was something more that I could have done.

Although, Im sure there is ALWAYS that feeling that you could've done more, leaving home without my books makes me feel like I am sabotaging myself....

What to do?

Study Study Study...and school hasnt even started

2009-07-19T20:25:00.000-04:00

I've been studying a lot. Reading Glannon's Examples and Explanations for Civil Procedure.

I've learned quite a lot, I just hope I can retain it.

I've created literally like 150 flashcards and divided them into different sections.

Landmark Cases - where I just put a "squib" about the case, such as what specific law it created or affirmed, for instance Roe V. Wade confirmed an individuals right to privacy...etc)

Constitutional Law - I have put some of the important Amendments that I want to remember. For instance 1 - 3 which establis the checks and balances of the Federal Gov't, etc.

Criminal Law Terms - Robbery vs. Burglary, Felony vs. Misdemeanor, etc

Legal Reasoning - Lists IRAC, The components of a Brief,

Civil Procedure - Difference between Federal courts and state courts, establishing jurisdiction, minimum contacts test

General Vocab - includes latin terms such as Obiter Dictum, res judicata etc. and also just general vocabulary comparison words the are between subjects, such as larceny vs. conversion. (larceny is criminal , conversion is civil)

Even if I don't retain ANY of what Im reading, I am sure when I go over it a second time in class, I'll be able to retain it then.

Why am I doing all this studying BEFORE classes begin? Well , with all my responsibilities I am afraid I will easily fall behind. Plus, with the assigned reading, will I have the time, or even want to make the time to read the "help" books or study aids? Probably not. So might as well read them now.

Commuting - Train vs. Car

2009-07-18T17:40:00.000-04:00

(Note: Cute Monkey Train drawn by Ape Lad, see other pics on Flickr by clicking pic.)

I've decided to take the train to school, which will turn my commute to 2 1/2 hours (door to door). If I drive it would be about an hour, but it would be an hour less of available study time, actually 2 hours less, hoping that there isn't traffic. Whereas on the train, I can sit back and either sleep or study or eat and just let them do the driving.

I am a bit scared of when it starts raining and snowing, because I still have to walk a short distance from the train station to the school, but if I drove I'd still have to walk from the parking garage and PLUS I'd still have to DRIVE in the rain or snow.

Imagine, waking up early in the morning after a late night study session and having to drive an hour to school after struggling with your 7 year old to get out of bed... Imagine the RELIEF you'll feel after such a long night and short morning, being able to sit back in a comfy train seat and just reellaaaaxxxxx.. Yeah, I'm looking forward to it.

Plus, I think it will actually be cheaper overall. Still pretty expensive, about $275 a month, but that is gas, parking and wear and tear plus 2 hours lost of study time and stress!

Why am I explaining all of this to you... No, not to get your approval, but for any other Pre-L's out there who are trying to figure out whether to drive or take public transportation, just want to give them my personal opinion.

But then again lets wait until school starts and I actually start commuting. THEN I'll really be able to say whether it's worth it or not.

Good Sites to Buy Books

2009-07-17T10:03:00.000-04:00

www.BarristerBooks.com

www.Bigwords.com

www.BarnesandNoble.com (Apply for annual Membership to get 20% off purchases)

www.LawbooksforLess.com

www.half.com

www.textbokksrus.com

Study Break...Multi-Tasking

2009-07-16T22:37:00.000-04:00

Note: Cute picture c/o John Coulter of Lilla Rogers Studio

I was doing so well. Studying every night. Reviewing my flashcards FAITHFULLY!

What HAPPENED???

Actually, it hasn't been that bad. I just don't want to over extend myself before school even starts, so I am taking a break from the studying and catching up on light reading. (All from the local library)

Right now I am reading "Catch Me If You Can" by Frank Abagnale, Jr. (yes the book that the movie was based on). I am going to also begin reading "City of Ember", which also has a movie based on it. I was on this "Movie" kick. I'd watch a movie and then want to read the book to see how much it differs. Well, the book version of "Catch Me If You Can" isn't as exciting as the movie. In the book he stays places a lot longer than in the movie, but it is still pretty good. I am about 1/2 finished with it.

I was also reading "Getting to Maybe: How to excel on Law School Exams". But, I decided to give that a rest just for now, because I found myself still studying. But after I finish "Ember" it will be right back to the books, hopefully.

The only thing I have left to turn in to complete my registration is my medical records. Unfortunately, my mother can't find my shot records from when I was younger, so now I have to take all sorts of tests to confirm whether my blood is something or other, which will prove that I had certain shots. Anyhoo, once that is completed and turned in, then it will be officially OFFICIAL!! I will be registered and accounted for. How exciting!!

Well, back to my "light" reading...

Running Around..

2009-07-15T23:55:00.000-04:00

Spent all day running around. I had a lot of appointments today.

A Dr. Appt in the morning, to get my school medical forms filled out.

A Therapist session in the afternoon

A Vet appointment in the evening for my dog who I think may have pink eye!

I also spent a good amount of time in the library completing those darn entrance interviews that are needed if you take out a student loan.

I was also looking at the Student Advantage card. Not sure whether I want to get it or not and whether it will be worth it, but we'll see.

Other than that, nothing much to report...

Sorry!

Two Sides To Every "story"

2009-07-14T11:50:00.001-04:00

From my reading I've learned that when it comes to cases there are two sides to every "story":

- Common Law v. Statutory Law

- Traditional Rule vs. Modern Rule

- Jurisdiction vs. Jurisdiction (aka Different Strokes for different folks)

- Plain meaning (definition) vs. Purposed meaning (intent)

- Broad Purpose/Application vs. Narrow Purpose/Application

So...the law thread

2009-07-13T23:10:00.000-04:00

So my school has this site where you can post threads with questions you may have and our Peer Advisors (2L and 3L Student volunteers) will respond with answers. There is also a section where we lowly incoming 1L's can "talk amongst ourselves".

Anyway, not many people have been on there. I posted a question or two, just because I really truly wanted to know...Ironically, I have no idea what I asked...

I REALLY want to ask them "If you knew then, what you know now...what would you do differently, do the same and why..." I think that is a pretty good question, right?

Why do I study? Why not relax?

2009-07-12T11:46:00.000-04:00

I just got my Civil Procedure horn book from Amazon and it is HUGE. Like textbook huge. I am trying to essentially skim over the details of the book to become somewhat generally knowledgeable about the "points" over civil procedural. When I come across influential cases, or vocab words I think may be used I write them down on my flashcards.

My question is whether my school is a national school - so that is focuses on cases all over the nation or if it more of a local school - focusing on cases more close to home.

I also got my Torts horn book and Criminal Law horn book which are all equally as big.

I also received the book "Getting to Maybe: How to excel on law school exams".

Getting To Maybe: How to Excel on Law School Exams

by Richard Michael Fischl & Jeremy Paul

Yeah, you are probably thinking I am spending all this money on all these books and I'm not even in school yet.. I am spending hour upon hour studying subjects when I don't even know which teacher I will have.

Well, do this partly out of fear, partly out of need and partly out of enjoyment.

My fear is that I won't have enough time to study these horn books or study these advice guides as thoroughly as I want or need to because I will be too caught up in homework assignment and sleep.

My need, is that I NEED to feel prepared. I hate going into situation feeling extremely unprepared, it makes me feel horrible. So I study and prep now in an attempt to make the beginning of school as less stressful as I can.

Lastly, I actually enjoy the reading. It is interesting to read about cases, rulings applicable law etc. I like learning so this is sometimes actually quite enjoyable.

I am also trying to become somewhat familiar with each subject so that
1) In classroom discussions I hope the topic doesn't catch me off guard

2) The teacher may be easier to follow since I have a familiarity with the subject, rules & cases - even if not 100% complete knowledgeable

3) In reading Exam guides and horn books, I will be more familiar with what I am looking for in cases (IRAC), what I need to pay attention to, the actual ruling of a case vs. Obiter Dictum, (vocab word - yah!), The reasoning behind that ruling, etc etc. I can learn to zone in on what matters,

4) and try to avoid that awkward stage of adjusting to studying again. I am trying to establish a habit of taking time out of the day to study. I am trying to make it part of my routine and my sons.

Anyway, all I can do is wait to see if all this studying even pays off in the end...

Fingers crossed!

Battery - Sample Case Study

2009-07-11T12:29:00.000-04:00

One thing that I've learned came in reference to an example I read somewhere.

If Bob takes Jane on a date. At the end of the date, Bob asks Jane if he can kiss her. She demurely says No, but he still kisses her. Is this considered Battery?

I, personally, say No. Although battery is defined as the unwanted touching of another, it is considered an Intentional Tort and Torts must have 4 components:
1) Duty
2) Breach of Duty
3) Causation - Direct Cause of Injury
4) Damages

Argument: Although Bob had a duty (not to kiss Jane b/c she said No) and breached that duty (kissed her anyway), there is no causation and no damages.

However, if Bob gave Jane herpes because he kissed her, we could perhaps argue that this is battery, because there was causation (the kissing) and damages (she now has herpes, has to incur medical bills and perhaps loss of enjoyment).

Later in the year after I know more we will see how well this was argued.

** Note: NOT my lips.... and unfortunately, Bob can't be charged for the excessive growth of hair on poor Jane's upper lip. *tsk tsk*

Flashcards and Vocab

2009-07-10T12:08:00.000-04:00

I began creating Flashcards for the terms that I am coming across as well as important cases. (ie Marbury v. Madison, Erie Question)

For alot of the Latin Terms I try to come up with something in plain english that sounds similar and either means the same thing or jogs my memory as to what it means.

Examples:

Orbiter dictim [hint: other defense] - "by the way" part of judicial decisions that go beyond the scope of the issue and is considered only an opinion not a fact.

Parol Evidence Rule [hint: Oral Rule] - Rule of evidence for contract interpretation. Any oral statements made prior to the signing of a contract will not be considered by a court in case of contract dispute. (does NOT include Fraudulent statements made that induce a party to sign)

Mens Rea [hint: Meant to] - guilty intent. Doesnt have to have been acted upon

Actus Reus [hint: Acted upon] - guilty act. Doesn't have to be intentional. Must be voluntary. Can also refer to an inaction

Res judicata [hint: Repeated ajudication] - A claim that a dispute has already been ajudicated (tried) once and should not be litigated again.

---------

Also trying to get familiar with the general setup of a case brief, so that whatever order they prefer it at school I will still have some background as to all of the components.

I also learned the IRAC rule to analyzing cases.

I - Issue. What is the innate issue
R -Rule - What are the rules that should be applied. (Common law vs. Statutory law)
A - Analysis & Application- Analyze the case in comparison to the rules. Apply the issue to these rule
C - Conclusion - Based on the facts of the case, in comparison to the rules that apply, what should be the ruling. (do you concur or dissent - or does it depend?)

Books Im Reading

2009-07-09T21:55:00.000-04:00

Note: All of these I got from my local library, so they are free. I'll let you know if I decide to go out and actually buy them or any others.

One L: The Turbulent True Story of a First Year at Harvard Law School

by Scott Turow

I am attempting to get through this book but having problems connecting since this guy attending Harvard Law in 1975. But I'm trying I really, really, really am. I'll let you know if it was worth it at all.

Just hoping to learn from his mistakes...

Law School Confidential (Revised Edition): A Complete Guide to the Law School Experience: By Students, for Students (Paperback)

by Robert H. Miller

Read about this book on a lot of "Essential" Pre-law Book lists.

It is useful. I borrowed from the Library but honestly contemplating just buying it since it has a lot of useful information not just for Pre-Law students but also for 1L, 2L and 3Ls as well. Plus, there are some things I'd like to note or outline inside of it (and obviously can't do that in a library book).

Law 101: An Essential Reference for Your Everyday Legal Questions

By: Brien A. Roche

Useful book. Discusses Contracts, Torts, the constitution, bill of rights and checks and balances of the legal system. If I wasn't going to law school and just had a simple legal question, I would actually think this was a little more indepth than I needed. I personally think he should change this from a reference for 'Everyday legal questions' and market it instead as a useful book for law students or wanna be law students. I'm sure this market is HUGE as pre-law students are probably doing all they can to prep for the 'unknown'.

Needed: Waking Up and Working Out

2009-07-08T15:40:00.000-04:00

Ive got to get used to waking up and working out.

I keep reading all these articles about how you should start you routine BEFORE school so that it becomes a habit. So, then, when you are studying your butt off, you get into the habit of taking time out for exercise and thus, the release of endorphins.

Law school starts SOON, but Ive got just enough time to make waking up early, exercising, and eating healthy a habit.... Don't they say it takes two weeks to establish a habit.? (I don't really believe this, Im thinking more 3 weeks to a month).

I need to start NOW, because I am sure I won't have the time to make the extra effort when school starts.

Does NOW mean today? Okay, tonight I will try to get home BEFORE 10:30 and actually try to get me and Chunky Monkey (my son) into bed. First, I will try to do some pilates, or the "walking" tapes.... So that means Ive got to get home by like 8. P needs to start getting into bed on time again... I've just been so lazy that EVERYTHING seems to be a chore...

Atleast, I'm trying....

Makeshift Prep Course

2009-07-07T22:45:00.000-04:00

Since I don't have my book list yet from school. I decided to order some books from Amazon in an attempt to get ahead before school starts. (Or maybe to catch up depending on how you look at it).

I am going to attempt to just read through some of this stuff, so that even if I don't completely understand it, I at least am somewhat 'aware' of the subject so that I won't be completely clueless. Plus I am sure there are students out there taking weeklong prep courses to ready themself for school. Since I have not the means to do this, I am creating my own "Prep Course".

I guess we'll see how it turns out.

Items Ordered
Price

1 of: The Law Of Torts: Examples And Explanations (Examples & Explanations)
[Paperback] By: Joseph W. Glannon
$39.55

Criminal Law Examples & Explanations, 4e
[Paperback] By: Singer; LaFond
$39.55

Understanding and Mastering The Bluebook: A Guide for Students and Practitioners
[Spiral-bound] By: Linda J. Barris
$19.00

Getting To Maybe: How to Excel on Law School Exams
[Paperback] By: Richard Michael Fischl, Jeremy Paul
$23.94

Civil Procedure Examples & Explanations
[Paperback] By: Joseph W. Glannon
$36.41

One L - The Book

2009-07-05T16:29:00.000-04:00

I've been trudging my way through the book "One-L".

I say 'trudging' because the book does become a bit tiresome, even within the first few pages.

The story is a 'true' story about a 26 year old guy attending law school in 1975 (I think).

Some of the thing within the book are so HORRIBLY outdated that it is hard for me to think that law school in this day and age will still be like what he says in the book. Things like his reference to growing up in the era of "Vietnam" and references to how 'old' he felt (the guy is 26!!) Plus, he's married...(Yes at 26). It is just hard to take the book completely seriously since 26 back then was considered grown, and now a days people are calling 30 the new 20.

Even though I've read both opinions on the book (Yes to reading it and No to reading it), I decided that I had nothing to lose but time - (it's a library book so it's free yah!) It is becoming a bit tiresome but I'll try to finish it. Perhaps it will be my first test in pushing through and comprehending writing I dont neccesarily 'get' nor enjoy...

Relaxation & Books Im reading

2009-06-25T22:48:00.000-04:00

I spent a good majority of this month reading casually.

No, the books I read all had NOTHING to do with law. However there were some really interesting reads. Just wanted to take a break from reading about law, thinking about law, talking about law school. Just decided to just do whatever and try to relax before I make my final push to at least FEEL prepared when I walk through those Law school doors.

Not sure when I will decide to buckle down again, I figure it will just come to me. I mean this is my summer to do nothing, so I might as well do just that...nothing...

Some of the books I read

The Dirt on Clean: An Unsanitized History (Paperback)
Katherine Ashenburg (Author)

Women of the Pleasure Quarters: The Secret History of the Geisha
by Lesley Downer

The Nanny Diaries

The Devil Wears Prada

Book I'm reading - Legal Research

2009-06-12T12:22:00.000-04:00

Foundations of Legal Research and Writing (West Legal Studies)
by Carol M. Bast and Margie A. Hawkins

Note: The library has an older edition, which is the one pictured. However, there is a newer addition available on Amazon.com which is where the link will take you to.

I just scanned this book. Only really paid attention to the information regarding the seperation of power (which I think is chaper 1). After that everything I just skimmed. It spoke rather indepthly about the constitution, Bill of Rights and the seperation of Power. I didnt go on to read about researching and didnt get to the section about writing (if there was one as I cant recall)

Anyway, I turned it back into the library but plan on checking it out later this summer to review the other stuff a little more in depthly. The majority of this book is about, (as it says) legal research. Since that is probably going to be a big thing and an important thing to know, I will try to review it closer later in the summer. But for now, just wanted to make a note of it as something Im reading

Background and Beginnings

2009-06-01T15:17:00.000-04:00

I know, cheesy title. But its true.

It is the beginning.

I start law school in late August 2009.

I know people have done it before, but this is for me.

I want to see what I did and what I can do better.

Plus I want to track my mood, since I was previously diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) hopefully, this decision won't come back to bite me.

Background:

Had a kid in 2002. (hereinafter referred to as "Chunky Monkey")

Still graduated on time and with a 3.45 GPA from a pretty good college in 2002. (aka "School of B")

Worked for a few years at a prestigious finance firm in Trust and Estates. (aka the "Company")

Took off from work at the end of 2008 because of my Major Depressive Disorder.

Decided to apply to law school, since this was the last year my LSATs would be valid.

Got into a pretty good law school - top tier, top 50. (aka Univ of Legalese)

Decided to attend.

What makes me an under motivated over achiever. I need to do it all. I have such high hopes to how much I will be able to accomplish how I will do it. I like to win.. I mean obviously no one likes to lose, but I mean I always want to be the best. Unfortunately, this comes in spurts as I often have the best plan put in place, but then get to lazy to actually institute it.. Anyway, I am going to try to stay Motivated enough so that when I leave law school in 3 years (here's to hoping I don't drop out before then) that I will not see my years in school as a complete waste of time and money.

So that's that. So we'll see how it goes. I'll try my best not to complain.

1 year closer to 30....

2009-05-24T14:13:00.002-04:00

It's my birthday and I'll cry if I want to...

I am now 29, and all the things I swore I would do before I was thirty are slowly flying out the window.

Too broke to buy that custom made Harley Davidson

Too broke to fly to Key West and drive the Key Highway on a moped...

Too broke to fly to Italy and check out the City of Pompeii

Too broke to pay off all my debt!

Too broke to do ANYTHING...

At least I am going to law school, right?

Loans, Loans, Loans, Debt, Debt, Debt...

I seem to be going BACKWARD as my debt will quickly rise due to law school, as my available funds quickly diminish...

Oh God, the pressure....