Alumna Monica Young talks about law school, life and balancing it all

Currently serving as senior policies advisor for Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, Monica Young received her undergraduate degree in history from Lees-McRae in 2012 and subsequently graduated from Marquette University's School of Law in 2015.

Young met with several Lees-McRae students in the Dotti M. Shelton Learning Commons Wednesday, October 19, to answer questions, share a few life stories and enjoy a late-night snack.

Below are several of the questions asked by students and Young’s responses.

Answers have been edited for clarity and brevity.

When do you recommend taking the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)?

I took it in the fall semester of my senior year—in October.

Note: According to the LSAC, many law schools require that the LSAT be taken by December for admission the following fall. However, taking the test earlier—in June or September/October—is often advised. If you want to ensure you have an opportunity to repeat the test, register for either the June or September/October administration.


How many (law) schools do you recommend applying to?

I applied to five schools, but I always made sure to have a safety net school; one that I knew I would get in to. So I had my top choice, a couple in between and then my safety net. But you can apply to as many schools as you would want, but just remember that the application fee— some of them are about $40 to $50.


What is your suggestion for the personal statement (section on the school application)?

Write something genuine, personal to you and something that makes you different and unique.


How close to the actual LSAT are the practice tests?

They are very close—they are usually old tests or unused questions.


In overview, what are the classes like in law school?

It varies wildly based on what year you are in. In your first year, faculty will want you to think quick on your feet, be a better lawyer and a better person. You’ll get assigned reading for every class and you’ll know what’s due, so don’t worry. People will tell you what study methods are best, but if you have one way that you know works for you, do that.


Do you recommend taking an internship before law school?

I didn’t—but it still gives perspective to what a typical day in a lawyer’s life looks like. If you are on the fence about going to law school, but you don’t have an internship lined up, go spend a day at the court house. That will give you some good perspective on what it may be like.


What is some general life advice you pass along to us?

Never take yourself too seriously, and even though my job is extremely important to me, I always make time for personal time. No matter what career you decide to go in to, always make sure to separate your personal, and your professional life. When I go home, its home. You are going to have stress no matter what career you go in to, so it is important to keep that balance.