The Law School works to offer access to the profession and law school through several pathway programs and projects. One of the most notable and long-standing programs is the Outreach Program, “Applying to and Succeeding in Law School”, which was founded in 2007 by the Black Law Students Association (BLSA).
BLSA’s dedication to mentorship has greatly impacted the scope of this program. With extraordinary success, BLSA partnered with the Law School’s Admissions office to impact over 700 prospective law students in the greater Philadelphia Area. The program focuses on students who are ethnically diverse, first-generation college attendees, or who have historically excluded backgrounds, and aims to help them successfully apply to and excel in law school.
Many thanks to Carla Anderson, Director of Operations for Admissions and Financial Aid and Director of Access Initiatives, for her dedication to information regarding all the law school process entails and equitable access. In 2022, 66 individuals participated virtually in workshops regarding admissions processes, crafting personal statements, financial aid, current law students’ experience, legal careers, LSAT strategy, and more.
The program has pivoted to be completely virtual; moreover, access has increased exponentially. As the program continues to grow, thanks to the efforts of BLSA and Carla Anderson as well as, affinity group and institutional support. The 2023 Program begins in February. The Law School and student mentors are extremely excited to support prospective law students on this journey of exploration.